Sangria

Fresh Fruit Sangria – a Summer Indulgence!

On a hot day, nothing compares to a refreshing and flavorful drink, full of fruits, that delights your senses. This fresh fruit sangria recipe is perfect for parties, picnics, or simply enjoying a relaxing evening at home. While the origins of sangria are often debated, it is certain that it has become a symbol of conviviality and the joy of savoring moments with loved ones.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 3 hours
Total time: 3 hours and 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

- 750 ml semi-sweet red wine
- 660 ml Sprite (or sparkling/mineral water)
- 1 lemon
- 2 peaches
- 1 nectarine
- 1 pear
- 1 apple
- A handful of grapes (white and black)
- Optional: a splash of brandy for an extra kick
- Optional: a few tablespoons of sugar, if you prefer a sweeter drink

Preparing the Sangria

1. Cleaning and slicing the lemon: Use a vegetable peeler to remove the lemon peel in thin strips. This trick not only adds a hint of flavor but also gives your drink a pleasant appearance.

2. Preparing the fruits: Cut the lemon into cubes or slices, and the other fruits – peaches, nectarine, pear, and apple – into bite-sized pieces. Grapes can be left whole or halved, depending on your preference.

3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, place all the chopped fruits, the lemon peel strips, and squeeze the lemon juice over them. Add the red wine and Sprite, gently mixing to combine the flavors.

4. Chilling: Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours. This step is essential for the fruits to release their flavors and for the drink to chill perfectly.

5. Serving: Before serving, add some ice cubes to glasses and pour the sangria. You can garnish with lemon slices for a festive look.

Useful Tips

- Adjusting sweetness: If you want a sweeter sangria, add a few tablespoons of sugar to the mix. Taste and adjust to your preference.
- Ingredient variations: Depending on the season, experiment with other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or pineapple.
- Using a dry red wine: If you prefer a less sweet taste, replace the semi-sweet wine with a dry one and adjust the sweetness with sugar to taste.
- Alternative drinks: If you don't have Sprite, you can use sparkling water or tonic water for a less sweet drink.

Nutritional Benefits

This sangria is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins from the fresh fruits. The fruits contain antioxidants, vitamins C and A, which help boost the immune system and maintain skin health. Red wine, consumed in moderation, is known for its cardiovascular benefits due to the polyphenols it contains.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can sangria be made a day in advance?
Yes, sangria can be made a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld better. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated!

2. What other drinks can be paired with sangria?
Sangria pairs perfectly with light appetizers, cheeses, or white meat dishes. You might try serving it alongside a fruit salad or a berry tart.

3. Is sangria suitable for diets?
Although sangria contains sugar and alcohol, when consumed in moderation, it can be integrated into a balanced diet due to the vitamin content from the fruits.

Personal Note

I fondly remember the moments spent around the table with friends, enjoying this refreshing drink. Whether it’s a birthday or a simple weekend gathering, sangria always brings a smile to the faces of loved ones. I encourage you to personalize your recipe by adding your favorite fruits or even a splash of fresh mint for a revitalizing taste.

So, happy birthday Vladimir! Let’s enjoy every moment with our favorite recipes and, above all, let ourselves be carried away by the magic of a delicious sangria that accompanies us during festive times!