Tired of the same old drinks? Craving something vibrant, flavorful, and perfect for sharing? Then look no further! This Cooper's Hawk Sangria recipe is your new go-to for any gathering, from casual weeknight dinners to lively weekend parties. It’s surprisingly easy to make, bursting with fresh fruit, and boasts a delightful balance of sweet and tart. This homemade cooking creation is a delicious dish that will impress your guests and is easily adaptable to your preferences. It’s the perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
This recipe provides a generous serving, perfect for 4-6 people. Feel free to adjust quantities based on your needs.
- 1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine (Tempranillo or Rioja recommended, but a good Cabernet Sauvignon works too)
- 1 cup brandy (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 lime, thinly sliced
- 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries
- 1 cup chopped fresh peaches (or nectarines)
- ½ cup chopped red grapes
- ½ cup triple sec or orange liqueur (optional, for extra sweetness and citrus)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (or to taste, adjust based on the sweetness of your fruit and wine)
- Soda water or club soda (to top)
- Fresh mint sprigs (for garnish)
Instructions: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
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Combine the ingredients: In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, brandy (if using), orange slices, lemon slices, lime slices, strawberries, peaches, and grapes. Gently stir to ensure all the fruit is submerged.
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Sweeten to taste: Add the granulated sugar and stir until it dissolves. Taste the mixture and adjust the sugar according to your preference. Remember, you can always add more later, but it's harder to take it away!
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Chill and infuse: 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. The longer it chills, the better it tastes!
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Add the liqueur (optional): Just before serving, stir in the triple sec or orange liqueur (if using). This will add another layer of citrusy sweetness.
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Top with soda water: Right before serving, gently top the sangria with soda water or club soda. This adds a refreshing fizz and lightens the overall body of the drink.
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Garnish and serve: Pour the sangria into glasses filled with ice. Garnish each glass with a fresh mint sprig. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Variations for Sangria Perfection
- Fruit variations: Feel free to experiment with different fruits! Apples, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries all make delicious additions.
- Wine selection: The choice of red wine significantly impacts the taste. Experiment with different varietals to find your favorite. A slightly chilled wine is ideal for this recipe.
- Sweetness adjustment: If using sweeter fruits, you might need less sugar. Taste as you go!
- Spice it up: Add a cinnamon stick or a few star anise for a warm, spiced sangria.
- Make it a white sangria: Substitute a dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) for the red wine and use different fruits like green apples, pears, and white grapes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This information is based on a serving size of one cup and will vary slightly based on the specific ingredients and quantities used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-30g
- Sugar: Approximately 15-25g
This Cooper's Hawk Sangria recipe is a simple yet impressive drink that’s perfect for any occasion. It's a healthy and refreshing alternative to other alcoholic beverages, a testament to the magic of easy recipes and homemade cooking. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the company of your loved ones!