The title says it all, doesn't it?
It has been hot, hot, hot in the Chicago area, as it has been for most of the country, it seems. What better way to enjoy summertime than sitting outside in the early evening with a glass of Sangria and the company of friends?
Right?
Remember I told you about my daughter's graduation party in June? Before the big party date I scoured the Internet looking for a great Sangria recipe because I thought that would be a lovely treat for the grown-ups at our celebration.
And it was. I modified a recipe I found and the Sangria was a huge hit. I've been asked for the recipe repeatedly and it finally dawned on me to share it here. You're going to love it.
As a matter of fact, this weekend I think I might make up another batch for a different sort of celebration. As you read this, my just-graduated daughter is acclimating herself to college life. I miss her already.
To be honest, I'm thrilled for her. She's going to do great and I know she'll have fun. No Sangria for her for a few years, of course. But today, my husband and I, and maybe a few friends whose daughters are also brand-new college freshman, will imbibe.
Here is a truly excellent recipe for...
SANGRIA
**You probably want to make this the day before you serve so as to give the fruit plenty of time to work its magic on the wine***
1 bottle of red wine (I used Columbia Crest Merlot - I'm not crazy about this particular vintage on its own, but it's reasonably priced and makes a great base for this recipe)
1 Lemon, sliced, seeded
1 Orange, sliced, seeded if necessary
1 Lime, cut into wedges, seeded
1 cup of strawberries, cleaned and sliced
1 small can of diced or crushed pineapple (including juice)
4 cups ginger ale
The original recipe found here: Best Party Sangria calls for the addition of Triple Sec or gin. There is also added sugar. We tried it with the sugar and with gin. Didn't care for the gin at all and didn't notice a difference with the sugar, so why add it if we don't need it, right?
Life is always about celebrating right? No need to come up with an excuse to enjoy this delicious treat!
Enjoy!
Julie
www.juliehyzy.com
http://juliehyzy.blogspot.com/
This sounds fresh, summery, and fun! Love sangria. :)
ReplyDeleteIt gives me a pang to hear you talk about your daughter at college. Time flies so quickly! I can just imagine my feeling the same way in 5 years (which is when my son will be college age.) Think I'm going to try to savor the moments today!
Sangria is always so festive! I love this simple recipe, and I really like the added ginger ale to lighten up the wine.
ReplyDelete~ Krista
We just got home from putting our daughter on the plane and we feel like empty nesters again! She was with us for three weeks between jobs and I miss her already.
ReplyDeleteIt's been hotter here in St. Louis, ugh! What a summer. So Sangria sounds great, and your version differs from the white version we make and therefore, I MUST try it! It's such a pretty drink, all studded with fruit in its own special pitcher. Thanks for the reminder.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds perfect for a barbecue. I know what I'm making this weekend! yum!
ReplyDeleteLove the sound of this! It's been added to my must make list.
ReplyDeleteMJ
Happy Hour is ON! Oh, yes, wish I had a nice chilled glass of this sangria right now. Like MJ, this is going on my must-make list, too. TY for the tips and thank you again, Julie, for switching days with me this week. You're the best. Have a great weekend!
ReplyDelete~ Cleo
Coffeehouse Mystery.com
Cleo Coyle on Twitter
When I first made this as a very poor college student we used cheap red jug wine...and as the years progressed I have always gone back back to jug wine!! Not being a fan of gin at all (tastes like hairspray smells to me!) I will leave that and the sugar out. Having a cookout with friends tomorrow so I have already made it and can't wait to try! Thanks for making my decision on what to bring so very easy :-) Also a big hug for having your daughter gone...I thank God ours decided to do school close to home!!
ReplyDeleteHi Everyone,
ReplyDeleteSorry to get in so late, but I'm thrilled the Sangria is hitting the spot for all of you. The move-in went very well and she seems happy with her roommate. I like her and her parents very much. A good day all around.
Now... for that Sangria!
Julie
Oh YUM! Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteA great post! I totally agree about the gin. Adds an odd little taste that is not welcome.
ReplyDeleteAnd since you are making it a day ahead of time, let is sit for a few hours, then pour some into ice cube trays so you can serve it chilled without diluting it. Sits in the back yard, in the heat and still stays cool for at least a half hour.
Dave - excellent suggestion!!!
ReplyDelete