Berry Sangria
There’s something magical about sipping a glass of Berry Sangria on a warm summer evening. I remember the first time I made it; it was a sunny afternoon, and friends were gathering for a casual get-together. The vibrant colors of the fresh berries just beckoned to be transformed into something refreshing. As I sliced up the strawberries and lemons, the sweet aroma filled the kitchen, promising a delightful drink that would keep us cool. Each summer, I look forward to making Berry Sangria, creating new memories with every batch. It’s not just a drink; it’s a celebration of flavors, laughter, and the joy of sharing moments with loved ones.
Recipe Snapshot
15 mins
5 mins
10 mins
Easy
120 kcal
0 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
0 g
Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Large Pot
Why You Need This Berry Sangria
Perfect for Any Gathering
One of the reasons I adore Berry Sangria is its versatility. Whether it’s a cozy evening at home or a lively summer party, this drink fits right in. Guests can enjoy it as a refreshing aperitif or a delightful dessert drink. It’s a great conversation starter that adds a festive touch to any gathering!
Refreshing Flavors
The combination of fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries creates a symphony of flavors. Each sip of Berry Sangria is bursting with the natural sweetness of the fruits, complemented by the crisp notes of sparkling wine. The flavors meld beautifully, offering a refreshing drink that’s never too overpowering.
Customize to Your Taste
One of the best parts about making Berry Sangria is the ability to customize it. You can tweak the sweetness to your preference by adjusting the syrup or choosing different fruits. Want to add a tropical twist? Toss in some pineapple or mango! The possibilities are endless, making this recipe your own.
Easy to Prepare
Even if you’re new to making drinks, Berry Sangria is surprisingly simple. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up a batch in no time. Just mix, chill, and serve! This accessibility makes it a go-to choice for entertaining without the stress.
Visually Stunning
A pitcher of Berry Sangria is a sight to behold. The vibrant colors of the berries and lemons create an eye-catching display that instantly elevates your table setting. It’s a drink that not only tastes good but also looks impressive, making it perfect for those Instagram-worthy moments.
Perfect for Warm Weather
As summer approaches, the need for refreshing beverages grows. Berry Sangria is the ideal drink to combat the heat, keeping you cool and satisfied. It’s light and bubbly, inviting you to take another sip under the sun!
Ingredients for Berry Sangria
Each component of Berry Sangria plays a vital role in creating a delightful drink. The mix of fresh fruits, sweet syrup, and bubbly wine works in harmony, resulting in a refreshing summer beverage that you’ll want to sip all day long. Let’s dive into the ingredients and see how they come together.
- 8 oz strawberries, fresh and ripe, hulled, trimmed and washed
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 750 ml pink moscato bottle, chilled, sparkling or any rosé
- 1/2 cup limoncello
- 1 cup frozen raspberries or fresh if you don’t have frozen
- 1 cup frozen strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1/2 cup frozen blueberries
- 1 handful mint leaves, washed
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced, seeds discarded
Instructions for Berry Sangria
Creating Berry Sangria is a delightful process that combines the thrill of mixing flavors with the excitement of sharing. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get started on this refreshing drink! You’ll love the simple steps that lead to a fruity, bubbly masterpiece.
- Start by preparing the strawberry syrup. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 8 oz strawberries, 1/3 cup sugar, and 1/4 cup water. Stir gently as everything heats up, watching for the sugar to dissolve completely. This syrup adds a sweet base to your sangria.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally. Watch for bubbles forming as the syrup heats; you want to ensure the sugar dissolves fully, creating a smooth syrup. Once it reaches a boil, remove it from heat.
- Cover the saucepan and let the syrup cool to room temperature. This step is important as it allows the flavors to meld and the syrup to thicken slightly, enhancing the overall taste of your Berry Sangria.
- After cooling, strain the syrup through a mesh sieve into a bowl to separate the liquid from the pulp and seeds. Use a spoon or spatula to press the syrup through, ensuring you capture every drop of sweet liquid.
- Now, in a large pitcher, combine 1/4 cup of the strawberry syrup with the 750 ml pink moscato, 1/2 cup limoncello, 1 cup frozen raspberries, 1 cup frozen strawberries, 1/2 cup frozen blueberries, a handful of mint leaves, and the slices of 1 lemon. This mixture is where the magic happens, and you’ll be amazed at how colorful and inviting it looks!
- Gently stir the mixture to combine all the ingredients. Take a moment to appreciate the vibrant colors and fruity aromas filling your pitcher. This drink is not just about flavor; it’s a feast for the eyes!
- Chill the sangria in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to marry beautifully, creating a refreshing beverage that’s perfect for hot weather.
- When you’re ready to serve, pour the Berry Sangria into ice-filled stemware. Each glass should be brimming with the colorful fruits and bubbles, making for a stunning presentation.
- Finally, garnish each glass with a slotted strawberry, perched on the edge, and serve immediately. Enjoy the delighted reactions of your guests as they take their first sip!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use ripe fruits: Choosing fresh, ripe fruits will enhance the flavor significantly. Look for strawberries that are red and fragrant.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter drink, feel free to add more strawberry syrup. Taste as you go!
- Chill properly: Letting the drink chill for at least an hour is crucial for the flavors to develop fully.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the syrup and mix the sangria a few hours in advance. Just add the ice right before serving to prevent dilution.
Pro Tips and Tweaks
When it comes to making the perfect Berry Sangria, there are a few handy tips to keep in mind that can elevate your drink. These suggestions will help you create a delicious and visually stunning cocktail!
- Storage: If you have any leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors will continue to meld, but the fruits may lose their texture slightly.
- Freezing: You can freeze any leftover fruits or syrup for future use. Just thaw them in the fridge before making your next batch of sangria!
- Pairing: Serve Berry Sangria with light snacks like cheese platters, fresh fruits, or light salads for a delightful pairing.
- Variations: Try adding different fruits, such as peaches or oranges, for a unique twist. You can also experiment with herbs like basil or thyme for an aromatic touch.
- Alcohol-Free Option: You can easily make a non-alcoholic version by substituting the wine and limoncello with sparkling grape juice or soda.
- Flavor Infusion: Consider infusing the drink with additional flavors like ginger or cucumber for a refreshing spin.
Perfect Matches for Berry Sangria
Finding the right accompaniments for Berry Sangria can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic pairing ideas:
- Light Appetizers: Serve with fresh bruschetta or crostini topped with various spreads.
- Seasonal Fruits: Complement the sangria with a fruit platter featuring seasonal options like watermelon, cherries, and peaches.
- Salads: A light mixed greens salad with vinaigrette can balance the sweetness of the drink.
- Grilled Chicken: For a heartier option, grilled chicken skewers marinated in citrus flavors pair beautifully.
- Outdoor Gatherings: This drink is perfect for summer barbeques or picnics, providing a refreshing option for warm weather.
- Brunch Events: Berry Sangria can also shine at brunch, served alongside pastries or light quiches.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Berry Sangria is more than just a drink; it’s a celebration of summer and a wonderful way to gather with friends. With its vibrant flavors and refreshing taste, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make time and again. I encourage you to give it a try at your next gathering—it’s sure to impress everyone and bring smiles all around.
Berry Sangria
Equipment
- Chef's Knife
- Frying Pan
- Wooden Spoon
- Large Pot
Ingredients
- 8 oz strawberries fresh and ripe, hulled, trimmed and washed
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 750 ml pink moscato bottle, chilled, sparkling or any rosé
- 1/2 cup limoncello
- 1 cup frozen raspberries or fresh if you don't have frozen
- 1 cup frozen strawberries hulled and halved
- 1/2 cup frozen blueberries
- 1 handful mint leaves washed
- 1 lemon thinly sliced, seeds discarded
Instructions
- To prepare syrup, combine 8 oz strawberries, 1/3 cup sugar, and 1/4 cup water in a small saucepan on medium heat. Bring to a boil while stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat, cover and allow to cool to room temperature. Press the syrup through a mesh sieve in small batches and discard pulp and seeds.
- Combine 1/4 cup of the strawberry syrup with the 750 ml pink moscato, 1/2 cup limoncello, 1 cup frozen raspberries, 1 cup frozen strawberries, 1/2 cup frozen blueberries, 1 handful mint leaves, and 1 lemon in a large pitcher.
- Pour the sangria into ice-filled stemware. Scoop some fruit into each glass and garnish with a strawberry, slotted onto the edge of the glass.
Notes
- Tip: The Strawberry Syrup in this recipe is optional. It does make this Sangria sweet. Leave it out if you’re happy with the sweetness of the Limoncello and the Moscato!
