Ah, the delightful charm of summer in a glass: that’s exactly what my Strawberry Sangria offers! I’ve always had a soft spot for sangria, and this refreshing twist has become my go-to recipe for warm afternoons spent lounging in the sun or hosting backyard get-togethers. This drink brings back memories of trying my first glass during a summer trip to Spain, where the vibrant colors and flavors coaxed me into eternal sangria-loving!
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can throw in your favorite fruits, and it still shines! Plus, it’s super simple to whip up – perfect for those last-minute plans or when you just want to feel fancy while keeping it low-key. Oh, and did I mention how stunning it looks? Bright strawberries and berries floating in rich red wine, it’s practically a work of art!
What’s in Strawberry Sangria?
Let’s dive into the ingredients that summon this beautiful beverage to life:
Dry Red Wine: The base of any good sangria! I usually go for a Spanish Tempranillo or Garnacha which gives a lovely depth and flavor. Feel free to experiment based on your taste.
Brandy: This adds a warm, smooth layer that elevates the overall elegance of the drink. I recommend a mid-range brandy that you’d enjoy sipping on its own.
Orange Liqueur: Whether it’s Triple Sec or the fancier Cointreau, this adds an aromatic citrus kick that beautifully complements the fruits.
Simple Syrup: I like to make my own, which is just equal parts sugar and water! Sweeten it to your liking – some like it sweeter than others.
Fresh Strawberries: These guys are the stars of the show! Using fresh, ripe strawberries ups the ante in sweetness and presentation.
Fresh Raspberries: Their tartness and bold color make the sangria pop. Plus, they’re packed with antioxidants!
Orange and Lemon Slices: These citrus fruits add brightness and zing to our refreshing concoction.
Soda Water or Lemon-Lime Soda: This is where the fizz comes from! If you want to keep it light, stick with soda water; if you’re in for a treat, go with lemon-lime for extra sweetness.
Ice Cubes: They keep things chilled and refreshing.
Fresh Mint Leaves: Optional, but a lovely garnish that adds an aromatic touch to your drink!
Is Strawberry Sangria Good for You?
Now, let’s chat a bit about health because, hey, even when you’re sipping something delicious, it’s nice to know it has its perks!
Red Wine: This can be heart-healthy in moderation! Rich in antioxidants, it’s pretty good for your cardiovascular health when enjoyed responsibly.
Fresh Fruits: The strawberries and raspberries pack vitamin C and fiber. They’re great for digestion and overall health, so you’re sneaking in some nutrients while sipping!
But remember, moderation is key! Enjoy this fruity delight, but keep an eye on how much you indulge, especially because of the added sugars in syrup and soda.
Ingredients
– 1 bottle (750 ml) of dry red wine
– 1/4 cup brandy
– 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Triple Sec or Cointreau)
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust for sweetness)
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 2 cups soda water or lemon-lime soda (for fizz)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
**Serves**: About 6-8 glasses, perfect for sharing with friends!
How to Make Strawberry Sangria?
Alright, here’s how to whip up this refreshing summer sip in just a few easy steps:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, brandy, orange liqueur, and simple syrup. Stir well to mix all the ingredients.
2. Add the sliced strawberries, raspberries, orange slices, and lemon slices to the pitcher. Stir gently to combine.
3. Refrigerate the sangria for at least 2 hours (or ideally overnight) to let those flavors meld beautifully.
4. When you’re ready to serve, add ice cubes to glasses and pour the sangria over the ice, filling each glass about halfway.
5. Top each glass with soda water or lemon-lime soda for some delightful fizz.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired and serve immediately. Cheers to your refreshing strawberry sangria!
Serve It Up Fresh!
A few more little nuggets of wisdom to make this recipe your own! You could experiment with different fruits like peaches or pineapples for a tropical twist, or even switch up the base wine. Feeling adventurous? Add a splash of ginger ale for an extra zing!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab some friends, whip up this beauty, and let the good times roll. I’d love to hear how your strawberry sangria turns out! Let’s make the summer unforgettable together!
