Two ingredients. That’s all a Screwdriver asks of you. Non-alcoholic vodka and orange juice go into a glass with ice, and you’ve got a drink that’s bright, easy, and satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe you make when you want something good without any fuss.
What makes it tick
The orange juice is really the star here. Freshly squeezed is worth the effort because you’ll taste the difference immediately. The non-alcoholic vodka, something like Seedlip Grove 42 with its citrus-forward botanical profile, adds body and a touch of complexity that keeps the drink from tasting like plain OJ. Grove 42 in particular leans into orange and lemon notes, which naturally amplifies what the juice is already doing.
Getting the most out of it
Fill your glass generously with ice to keep things cold and slightly diluted as you sip. If the juice you’re using is on the sweeter side, that dilution actually helps the balance. An orange wheel or a twist of citrus peel on the rim adds a nice finishing touch without any extra effort.
You can adjust the ratio to your taste. More juice pushes it toward brunch territory, while a heavier pour of the spirit gives it more of a cocktail feel. Either way, you’ll end up with something refreshing.
Try these next
If you like the citrus simplicity of a Screwdriver, the Citrus Sunrise Spritzer takes a similar idea and adds grapefruit and club soda for some fizz. For something completely different but equally easy, a Bloody Mary swaps the sweetness for savory, spicy depth.