Recipe: Blood Orange Acqua Fresca

A refreshing Italian delicacy from Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria.

With Epcot’s reimagining, much has changed in the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow. One thing that hasn’t changed is the restaurant in the Italy Pavilion: Via Napoli. 

Known for freshly prepared, wood-fired pizzas and large carafes of strawberry and blood orange acqua fresca, we knew this was a recipe we wanted to learn how to make!

Blood Orange Acqua Fresca

Recipe inspired by The Unofficial Disney Parks Drink Recipe Book

Yields 1 serving 

Ingredients:

• 4 large blood oranges, juiced or about 2 cups freshly squeezed orange juice

• 1 package raspberries, washed (anywhere between ½ cup and 1 cup)

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 4 cups water 

Instructions: 

1. In a pitcher, muddle raspberries thoroughly.

2. Add orange juice and sugar and mix well.

3. Let the combination sit in the fridge for at least 5 hours.

4. Pour mixture into a blender and combine.

5. Strain into prepared glass and enjoy!

NOTE: This can separate so you will need to mix occasionally

Review:

This recipe is basically a mix between juice and soda. Refreshing and slightly sweet, without being too sweet. It would probably be good as a mimosa base like POG juice, or with sparkling water à là San Pellegrino. 

While I enjoyed this and would make it again, the juice is not necessarily worth the squeeze, especially if you’re hosting a large gathering.