There’s something special about a drink that instantly puts you in a summer state of mind—and the Navel cocktail does just that. With its bright citrusy flavor and smooth finish, it’s the kind of drink that feels both refreshing and a little bit indulgent. I’ve made this cocktail countless times for lazy afternoons and backyard get-togethers, and it always hits the spot.
Navel
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Highball glass or mason jar
Ingredients
– 1 oz (30 ml) orange liqueur (like Cointreau or Triple Sec)
– 2 oz (60 ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka
– Ice cubes (enough to fill the glass)
– Orange slice, for garnish
Method
- Fill a highball glass or mason jar with ice. This chills the drink and keeps it nice and crisp.
- Pour in the orange liqueur.
- Add the fresh orange juice. Give it a gentle swirl to mix with the liqueur.
- Top it off with vodka. Stir gently so everything blends but doesn’t get watered down.
- Garnish with a fresh orange slice for that extra pop of color and citrus aroma.
Tips & Tricks
– Use freshly squeezed orange juice if you can—it really makes a difference in flavor. Bottled juice works in a pinch, but aim for one that’s 100% juice without added sugar.
– Want to cut down on sweetness? Use less orange liqueur or swap in a splash of soda water to lighten things up.
– If you don’t have orange liqueur, a mix of simple syrup and a bit of orange zest will give you a similar flavor.
– Stir, don’t shake. You want to blend the ingredients without over-diluting them.
– I like to chill my glass for a few minutes beforehand—it helps keep the drink icy cold longer.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can mix the orange juice, vodka, and orange liqueur ahead of time and keep it chilled in the fridge for up to a day. Just stir again before serving and pour over fresh ice. Garnish right before drinking to keep everything looking and tasting fresh.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail is perfect for:
– Brunch with friends
– A sunset happy hour
– Poolside sipping
– Pairing with light bites or seafood
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-work rituals: making a Navel, kicking back on the patio, and pairing it with grilled shrimp skewers. The citrus in the drink really brings out the flavor in the seafood.
Food Pairings
Grilled Seafood: Think shrimp, scallops, or even fish tacos. The smoky, savory flavors pair beautifully with the Navel’s citrusy brightness.
Spicy Asian Dishes: The sweet citrus cuts through the heat of dishes like Thai noodles or spicy Korean wings.
Chocolate Desserts: A slice of rich chocolate cake or a few dark chocolate truffles make a surprisingly good match with the orange notes in the drink.
Recipe Variations
Spicy Navel
Add a slice of jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick. Stir it into the orange juice before combining with the other ingredients.
Tropical Navel
Swap out half the orange juice for pineapple juice and add a splash of coconut water. It’s like a beach vacation in a glass.
Herbal Navel
Add a sprig of rosemary, thyme, or basil as a garnish—or muddle a few leaves into the bottom of the glass before adding ice for a garden-fresh twist.
Virgin Navel (Non-Alcoholic)
Mix 2 oz (60 ml) orange juice with a splash of soda water and a dash of grenadine. Stir and serve over ice with an orange slice. It’s refreshing and kid-friendly.
Swaps & Substitutions
– Vodka: Try citrus-flavored vodka for extra zing.
– Orange liqueur: No liqueur? Use orange extract and a bit of simple syrup.
– Juice: Fresh-squeezed always wins, but in a pinch, go with high-quality bottled juice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Using too much ice—you want it cold, not watered down.
– Over-stirring, which can dilute the flavor.
– Using low-quality juice or liqueur. Since this drink is all about clean, simple flavors, quality really matters.
Why These Steps Matter
– Fresh juice brings natural sweetness and brightness you won’t get from concentrate.
– Layering the ingredients (rather than shaking) preserves the clarity and keeps the flavors distinct.
– Garnishing isn’t just for looks—it adds aroma that enhances the overall experience.
Fun Facts
– The Navel gets its name from the navel orange, known for its sweet flavor and juicy flesh.
– It was originally dreamed up in a seaside town, meant to capture the feel of summer in a glass.
– At one point, a Hollywood icon made this their signature drink—no wonder it took off in bars around the world.
Creative Garnish Ideas
– Fresh mint or basil
– A twist of orange peel
– Edible flowers
– A cinnamon stick for a cozy fall version
FAQs
Can I make a Navel without orange liqueur?
Yes! Use a splash of simple syrup and a bit of orange zest or orange extract to keep the citrusy flavor.
Is there a non-alcoholic version?
Definitely. Try the Virgin Navel with orange juice, soda water, and a touch of grenadine.
Can I use store-bought juice?
You can, but go for 100% juice without added sugar. Fresh really does taste better here.
When’s the best time to enjoy a Navel?
Summer is ideal, but honestly, the bright citrus flavors are welcome any time of year.
How can I make it healthier?
Cut back on the orange liqueur and use freshly squeezed juice. You can also add soda water to lighten it up.
How do I scale the recipe for a group?
Just multiply each ingredient by the number of servings. Mix in a pitcher and pour over individual glasses of ice.
Whether you’re sticking with the classic or adding your own twist, the Navel is all about easygoing flavor and feel-good vibes. It’s a simple cocktail that leaves room for creativity, and that’s why it’s been my go-to cocktail for summer nights. Cheers to finding your perfect mix!
