Virgin Bloody Mary

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Full of bold, savory flavor without alcohol
  • Great for brunch, lunch, or afternoon sipping
  • Customizable spice level to suit your taste
  • Packed with vitamins from tomato juice
  • Easy to make in under 5 minutes
  • Perfect canvas for creative garnishes
  • Can be made in a single glass or large batch
  • Naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan
  • Low in sugar and high in flavor
  • A satisfying alternative to sweet mocktails

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Tomato juice
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Worcestershire sauce (use a vegan version if needed)
  • Hot sauce (like Tabasco, to taste)
  • Celery salt
  • Ground black pepper
  • Smoked paprika or cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Ice cubes
  • Optional garnish: celery stalks, pickles, olives, cherry tomatoes, lemon wedges

Directions

  1. In a shaker or glass, combine tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, celery salt, pepper, and any additional spices.
  2. Fill a glass with ice.
  3. Pour the seasoned tomato juice over the ice.
  4. Stir well to mix all the flavors.
  5. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  6. Garnish with a celery stalk, olives, lemon wedge, or other toppings.
  7. Serve immediately and enjoy cold.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 to 2 servings and takes about 5 minutes to prepare.

Variations

  • Spicy Virgin Mary: Add extra hot sauce, cayenne, or horseradish for serious heat.
  • Cucumber Virgin Mary: Add cucumber juice for a cooling balance.
  • Green Virgin Mary: Use tomatillo or green tomato juice instead of red.
  • Herbed Version: Add fresh basil, dill, or parsley for a garden twist.
  • Pickle Juice Boost: Add a splash of pickle brine for tangy depth.
  • Smoky Version: Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for bold flavor.
  • Bloody Maria Mocktail: Use lime juice and hot Mexican-style seasonings instead of lemon.
  • Virgin Caesar: Use clamato juice instead of tomato juice (check dietary preferences).
  • Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium tomato juice and season lightly.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: You can mix the base (without ice) and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir before serving.
  • Reheating: Not applicable. This drink is always served cold.

FAQs

What is a Virgin Bloody Mary?

It’s a non-alcoholic version of the classic Bloody Mary cocktail, made with tomato juice, lemon, and savory spices instead of vodka.

Is this drink good for you?

Yes, it’s full of vitamin C and lycopene from the tomato juice and is naturally low in sugar.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, mix the ingredients and refrigerate without ice. Add ice and garnishes just before serving.

What makes it taste like a real Bloody Mary?

The Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, citrus, and seasonings create that signature savory depth.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Yes, though fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor.

What’s the best tomato juice to use?

Use 100% pure tomato juice or low-sodium tomato juice depending on your preference.

How can I make it vegan?

Use a vegan Worcestershire sauce and avoid any animal-based garnishes.

Is it supposed to be spicy?

Traditionally, yes. But you can easily adjust the spice level to your taste.

Can kids drink this?

Yes, but you may want to tone down the spice level for younger palates.

What are good garnishes?

Celery, olives, pickles, cherry tomatoes, lemon wedges, or even mini skewers with veggies.

Conclusion

The Virgin Bloody Mary is a bold, flavorful mocktail that proves you don’t need alcohol to enjoy a sophisticated drink. With its rich tomato base, zesty citrus, and customizable spice, it’s perfect for brunch or anytime you want something savory and satisfying. Quick to make and endlessly adaptable, it’s a mocktail you’ll keep coming back to—glass after glass.

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Virgin Bloody Mary

Virgin Bloody Mary

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The Virgin Bloody Mary is a savory, spicy, and alcohol-free take on the classic brunch cocktail, made with tomato juice, lemon, and bold seasonings. It’s the perfect mocktail for mornings, brunches, or anytime you’re craving a zesty, refreshing drink.

  • Author: Laura
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 to 2 servings
  • Category: Beverages
  • Method: Stirred
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 cup tomato juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (vegan if needed)
  • 24 dashes hot sauce (like Tabasco)
  • 1/8 teaspoon celery salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper
  • Ice cubes
  • Optional garnish: celery stalk, pickles, olives, cherry tomatoes, lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. In a shaker or glass, combine tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, celery salt, pepper, and optional spices.
  2. Fill a glass with ice.
  3. Pour the seasoned tomato juice over the ice.
  4. Stir well to mix all ingredients.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
  6. Garnish with a celery stalk, olives, lemon wedge, or preferred toppings.
  7. Serve immediately while cold.

Notes

  • Adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less hot sauce.
  • Prepare the mix in advance and refrigerate without ice for up to 2 days.
  • Use low-sodium tomato juice for a lighter version.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 glass
  • Calories: 45
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
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