Sangria - basic recipe

Sangria - The Basic Recipe for a Refreshing Summer

Who doesn't love a refreshing, flavorful drink that brings a touch of sunshine to hot summer days? Sangria, with its vibrant mix of wine and fruits, is perfect for enjoying at an outdoor party or a relaxing evening with friends. This basic recipe is simple, but with a little attention to detail, you can transform each glass into a true delight.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Infusion Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours and 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 3 cups dry red wine (choose a quality wine that is not too sweet)
- 3 tablespoons sugar (adjust according to your taste)
- 2 oranges (one for juice, the other for slices)
- 2 lemons (just like the oranges)
- 2 peaches (preferably ripe for a delicious taste)
- 1 cup sparkling water or champagne (for an extra fizz)
- Ice cubes (for serving)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the Wine: In a large bowl or pitcher, pour the 3 cups of dry red wine. Gradually add the 3 tablespoons of sugar and mix well until the sugar completely dissolves. This step is essential as the sugar will add a subtle sweetness that balances the acidity of the wine.

2. Preparing the Fruits: Wash all the fruits well under running water. It is important to remove any impurities. Squeeze the juice from one lemon and one orange directly into the bowl with the wine. These juices will add freshness and a refreshing taste.

3. Slicing the Fruits: Cut the other lemon and orange into thin slices, crosswise. For the peaches, remove the pits and slice them. Add all these fruits to the bowl with the wine, gently mixing to incorporate them.

4. Infusion: Cover the bowl or pitcher and refrigerate for 8 hours or even overnight. This infusion time allows the flavors to combine perfectly, resulting in a delicious drink.

5. Finishing the Sangria: Before serving, add a cup of sparkling water for fizz. You can use champagne instead of sparkling water for a more festive taste. Stir gently.

6. Serving: Fill the glasses with ice cubes. Pour the sangria into each glass, making sure to add some fruit slices for an attractive look.

Serving Suggestion: You can add a sprig of fresh mint to each glass for an extra touch of color and flavor. Sangria pairs perfectly with light snacks such as cheeses, olives, or tapas.

Possible Variations:
- Instead of peaches, you can use apples or pineapples to experiment with different flavors.
- Add a splash of liqueur, such as triple sec or vermouth, for a more complex taste.
- Experiment with white or rosé wine for a lighter, fresher version.

Nutritional Benefits: Sangria is a relatively light drink, low in calories (about 100-150 calories per glass, depending on the ingredients used). Fresh fruits provide vitamins and antioxidants, and moderate wine consumption can have health benefits, such as improving heart health.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use white wine for sangria? Yes, white or rosé wine is an excellent choice, offering a lighter and fresher drink.
2. How long can sangria be kept? Ideally, consume sangria within 2-3 days. However, the taste will change, so it's best to make it fresh.
3. What other fruits can I add? You can experiment with strawberries, raspberries, mangoes, or even kiwi!

Sangria is a versatile recipe that invites you to put your personal touch on it. Don't hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and create variations that reflect your personal style. Enjoy each glass and cherish the moments spent with loved ones!