Are you looking for a delightful and refreshing drink to impress your guests or simply enjoy a relaxing evening? Look no further! This Green Apple Moscato Sangria recipe is the perfect blend of sweet, tart, and bubbly, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. It’s surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum deliciousness – perfect for those busy weeknights when you still crave something special. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, transforming simple ingredients into a truly delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle (750ml) Moscato d'Asti (or other sweet sparkling white wine)
- 2 green apples, thinly sliced
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup brandy (optional, for an extra kick)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
- 1/2 cup club soda or sparkling water (optional, for extra fizz)
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Fruit: Wash and thinly slice the green apples and orange. The thinner the slices, the better they’ll infuse their flavor into the sangria.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pitcher, combine the sliced apples and oranges, brandy (if using), lemon juice, and sugar. Gently stir to dissolve the sugar.
- Add the Wine: Pour in the Moscato d'Asti. Stir gently to combine.
- Chill: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The longer it chills, the better it tastes!
- Serve: Just before serving, add the club soda or sparkling water (if using) for extra fizz. Stir gently. Pour into glasses filled with ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Tips for the Best Green Apple Moscato Sangria:
- Choose your apples wisely: Use crisp, tart green apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor balance.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sangria, add more sugar to taste. Start with 2 tablespoons and adjust according to your preference.
- Don't over-stir: Gently stir the sangria to avoid bruising the fruit and making it mushy.
- Make it ahead: This sangria tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and let it chill overnight for the ultimate flavor experience.
- Get creative with garnishes: Experiment with other garnishes like berries, sliced cucumbers, or even edible flowers.
Variations:
- Berry Sangria: Add 1 cup of mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries) for a fruity twist.
- Spicy Sangria: Add a cinnamon stick or a few slices of jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- Non-alcoholic Sangria: Omit the brandy and Moscato d'Asti and substitute with sparkling white grape juice or a combination of white grape juice and sparkling cider.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Serving size will depend on the number of servings you divide the sangria into, but a general estimate per serving (without brandy) is approximately:
- Calories: 150-200
- Carbohydrates: 20-30g
- Sugar: 15-25g
This Green Apple Moscato Sangria is a fantastic addition to any gathering, picnic, or simply a relaxing evening at home. It’s a quick dinner idea companion or a perfect light and refreshing beverage on a warm day. This easy recipe is a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy!