RECIPE: Summertime Lemon Italian Cream Soda

Origin of Recipe: San Francisco (by way of Lucca, Italy)

Full Disclosure: While the name would lead you to believe that this refreshing beverage originated in Italy, Italian Sodas actually came to be in San Francisco. In 1925, Rinaldo and Ezilda Torre visited family in Lucca, Italy, where they became inspired to create a variety of fruit syrups for their company US-based company, Torani. And while I know you can find fresh, Italian Sodas in Italy, I, myself, have only enjoyed them here in the states.

Regardless of its exact origin, sipping this refreshing, citrusy, summertime treat, it’s hard not to believe you’re amidst one of the expansive lemon groves that dot the Amalfi Coast. While the lemon version of this fun drink is particularly tasty, you can always experiment with different syrup flavors to customize your beverage based on anything from the weather, your mood, to which part of the world you want to pretend you’re in that day!

Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS

• 2 ounces half-and-half or 2 ounces cream
• 2 ounces Italian syrup
• 4 ounces club soda
• 2 ounces crushed ice
• Fresh Lemon wedge for garnishing
• Whipped Cream for topping (optional)

DIRECTIONS

1. Pour syrup into glass.

2. Add the ice.

3. Add club soda

4. Add the cream and stir!

5. Top with whipped cream, and garnish with lemon wedge, if you’d like!

PRO TIP: Make sure your soda is nice and chilled before you serve. It’ll keep the flavors from getting watered down and taste more refreshing.

5. Garnish with fresh lemon and if you’d like, whipped cream!