Are you craving a taste of Carrabba's Italian Grill's famous sangria, but don't want to leave the house? This homemade blackberry sangria recipe perfectly captures that vibrant, fruity flavor, delivering a refreshing and delicious drink that's perfect for any occasion. It's an easy recipe, ideal for quick dinner ideas or a delightful addition to your next gathering. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine (such as Rioja or Cabernet Sauvignon) – A good quality wine will make a noticeable difference!
- 1 cup blackberry liqueur (Chambord is a popular choice)
- 1/2 cup brandy (optional, adds depth of flavor)
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries (optional, adds extra fruity notes)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1/2 cup club soda or sparkling water (to top)
- Ice
Instructions:
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Prepare the fruit: Wash and thinly slice the orange and lemon. Gently rinse the blackberries and raspberries. Setting aside some berries for garnish always elevates the presentation.
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Combine ingredients: In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, blackberry liqueur, brandy (if using), orange slices, lemon slices, blackberries, raspberries (if using), and sugar. Gently stir to dissolve the sugar.
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Chill: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more harmonious and delicious sangria.
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Serve: Before serving, add the club soda or sparkling water to the pitcher. Stir gently. Fill glasses with ice, pour the sangria over the ice, and garnish with fresh blackberries and a lemon or orange slice.
Tips for the Best Blackberry Sangria:
- Wine Selection: The choice of red wine significantly impacts the overall taste. Experiment with different varietals to find your favorite!
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference. Some prefer a sweeter sangria, while others like it slightly tart. Taste and adjust accordingly.
- Fruit Variety: Feel free to experiment with other fruits. Strawberries, peaches, or even chopped apples can add unique flavors and visual appeal.
- Make it ahead: This sangria tastes even better the next day! Making it ahead of time allows the flavors to fully develop.
Variations:
- White Sangria: Substitute a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc for the red wine, and use a white fruit liqueur like peach schnapps.
- Sparkling Sangria: Use all sparkling wine instead of adding club soda at the end for a bubbly twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, without brandy):
Serving size will depend on your pitcher size. The nutritional information below is an approximation and can vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
- Sugar: Approximately 10-15g
This homemade Carrabba's-inspired blackberry sangria is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a quick dinner idea enhancer, perfect for a casual get-together or a relaxing evening at home. Enjoy this delicious dish – it's sure to become a new favorite!