Are you dreaming of a tropical getaway? Transport yourself to the vibrant shores of the Bahamas without leaving your kitchen! This refreshing Bahama Breeze Sangria recipe is the perfect blend of fruity sweetness and zesty citrus, guaranteed to elevate any gathering. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for weeknight relaxation or a weekend brunch with friends. Get ready to experience the taste of paradise with this delicious and simple homemade cocktail. This easy recipe is a great addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas or healthy meals for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine (Tempranillo or Rioja recommended)
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- ½ cup pineapple juice
- ¼ cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- ½ cup orange liqueur (like Triple Sec or Cointreau)
- ¼ cup brandy (optional, for an extra kick)
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 lime, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
- ½ cup chopped pineapple chunks
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- Ice
Instructions:
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Combine the liquids: In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, orange juice, pineapple juice, lime juice, orange liqueur, and brandy (if using). Gently stir to combine.
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Add the fruit and spices: Add the sliced oranges, limes, mixed berries, pineapple chunks, and cinnamon sticks to the pitcher. Stir gently again.
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Chill: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for the best results and allows the sangria to develop its full flavor profile.
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Serve: Before serving, fill glasses with ice. Pour the sangria over the ice, ensuring each glass gets a good mix of fruit and spices. Garnish with an extra orange or lime slice, if desired.
Tips for the Best Bahama Breeze Sangria:
- Use quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the sangria will taste. Freshly squeezed juices make a noticeable difference.
- Don't over-chill: While chilling is essential, avoid freezing the sangria. A slightly chilled sangria is ideal.
- Adjust to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of each ingredient to your preference. If you prefer a sweeter sangria, add a little more orange juice or liqueur. For a tarter sangria, add more lime juice.
- Get creative with fruit: Experiment with different fruits like peaches, mangoes, or cherries. Let your creativity shine!
Variations:
- White Sangria: Substitute a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc for the red wine and adjust the fruit accordingly. Peaches and nectarines work wonderfully in a white sangria.
- Sparkling Sangria: Add a bottle of chilled sparkling wine or club soda just before serving for a bubbly twist.
- Non-alcoholic Sangria: Omit the wine, liqueur, and brandy. Substitute with sparkling grape juice or sparkling cider for a delicious non-alcoholic version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a typical serving will contain approximately:
- Calories: 150-200
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Sugar: 10-15g
This Bahama Breeze Sangria recipe is more than just a drink; it's an experience. It's a delicious, refreshing, and easy-to-make cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the taste of paradise in every sip! This recipe is a wonderful addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and best recipes. It’s a healthy meal alternative for a fun and refreshing twist.