Ouzo Cocktail with Lemon and Rosemary is the drink that will set the tone for your party. It's refreshing, light, and full of flavor. This Greek-inspired cocktail is easy to make and always works-just three ingredients and you're done.
Serve it cold in small glasses, and it will give your guests a warm welcome and a taste of summer. A simple but elegant drink that completes any Greek party.

Refreshing Ouzo Drink With Citrus Flavor
When I plan a Greek-inspired buffet or dinner, I love to open with something that already puts everyone in the right mood. This cocktail does just that. The anise flavor of ouzo gets a fresh twist with lemon, while rosemary adds that elegant finishing touch.
I like to keep the glasses small because ouzo is strong, but that also makes the drink feel more festive. Serve it well chilled, and you'll see how quickly it becomes the start of good conversations. I've made it often for gatherings, and it always works-simple, tasty, and a little surprising.
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What Do You Need?
The exact amounts are listed in the recipe card further below.
- Ouzo: The famous Greek anise liqueur, best served ice cold.
- Lemon juice: Fresh, for a bright, tangy touch. Lime works too.
- Rosemary sprig: doubles as garnish and stirrer. Oregano also fits the Greek theme.
How to Prepare?
The detailed steps are in the recipe card.
- Chill the ouzo in the fridge.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice.
- Pour lemon juice into a small glass and top with ouzo.
- Add a sprig of rosemary and serve right away.
Tips for Ouzo Mixed Drink With Fresh Herbs
- Always chill the ouzo before serving.
- Use small liqueur glasses-ouzo is strong.
- Freshly squeezed lemon makes a big difference.
- Replace lemon with lime for variation.
- For a softer flavor, add a splash of sparkling water.
- Keep herbs fresh by wrapping them in damp paper and refrigerating.
- Want it extra cold? Chill the glasses too.
- This cocktail pairs well with salty snacks like olives or feta.

Did you make this delicious recipe? Tag #byandreajanssen via Instagram! I love to see what your creation looks like and regularly share the most beautiful photos of you! Did you like this recipe? Then leave a rating on the recipe card! Your feedback helps other home cooks and me enormously.
Need more inspiration?
- You can find video recipes on my YouTube channel.
- And don't forget to save the recipes on Pinterest, so you can easily find them again next time!
📖 Recipe
RECIPE CARD
Recipe Help
Two easy tools to make cooking even easier. Cooking mode keeps the screen on. The easy-step recipe displays the recipe step by step, including the ingredients needed. And you can adjust servings easily
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons ouzo
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
All my recipes are written both in Metric (gram / ml) and US Customary (cups / pounds). Here you can select which type of amount you would like to see.
Instructions
- Pour the lemon juice into a small glass.1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Fill the glass with chilled ouzo.2 tablespoons ouzo
- dd the rosemary sprig. Serve immediately.1 sprig fresh rosemary
Notes
- Swap lemon for lime for a sharper flavor.
- Add a splash of sparkling water for a lighter version.













Marina says
It reminds me when we were on holiday in Greece! Great drink!
elly says
What a creative cocktail! Will definitely have to try it soon!
Saif says
I am not a fan of drinking but this is a great cocktail recipe. I might make one if I will invite some friends for a drink.
Leslie says
This cocktail recipe looks delightfully refreshing! Thanks for sharing your tips on how to make it!
Debra says
Yes, please! Could it be any more simple? Sounds like the perfect, refreshing drink.
Amanda Marie says
Looks good and refreshing. I’ll have to keep an eye out for ouzo.
Maren says
This drink sounds so refreshing! With all of this COVID stress please pass me a glass
Andréa says
It's simple yet very delicious. Great on summer days!
Andréa says
I can imagine, it's a great drink and often served in Greece! Thank you.
Andréa says
Thank you. I don't drink very often, but when I do take a glass I like a delicious drink.
Andréa says
Thank you for your nice words.
Andréa says
It sure is, simple and refreshing. A winner!
Andréa says
You will love it. Thank you for your nice words.