There’s something magical about sipping on a chilled glass of sangria on a warm summer day. The combination of fresh fruit, wine, and a hint of sweetness is simply irresistible. As someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, I’ve tried countless sangria recipes, but this Strawberry Sangria has become my absolute favorite. It’s light, refreshing, and bursting with the flavors of ripe strawberries and citrus—a perfect drink to share with friends at a backyard barbecue or to enjoy solo while soaking up the sun.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can tweak it to suit your taste, whether you prefer it sweeter, tangier, or with a stronger kick. It’s also incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. Trust me, once you try this Strawberry Sangria, it’ll become your go-to drink for every summer gathering. Let’s dive into what you’ll need and how to make it!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Fresh strawberries: The star of this recipe, fresh strawberries bring a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the sangria. Look for ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor.
White wine: A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works beautifully in this recipe. It provides a light, refreshing base that complements the fruit without overpowering it.
Orange liqueur: A splash of orange liqueur, such as Cointreau or Triple Sec, adds a subtle citrusy depth and a touch of sophistication to the sangria.
Fresh oranges: Oranges not only add a burst of citrus flavor but also pair wonderfully with the strawberries. Use both the juice and slices for maximum impact.
Sparkling water or lemon-lime soda: To give the sangria a fizzy finish, add sparkling water for a lighter option or lemon-lime soda for a sweeter touch.
Honey or simple syrup: A bit of sweetness balances the tartness of the fruit and wine. Honey adds a natural touch, while simple syrup blends seamlessly.
Fresh mint leaves: Mint adds a refreshing aroma and a pop of green color, making the sangria even more inviting.
Ingredients List
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 bottle (750 ml) dry white wine
- 1/4 cup orange liqueur
- 2 oranges (1 juiced, 1 sliced)
- 1 cup sparkling water or lemon-lime soda
- 2-3 tablespoons honey or simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
- Ice cubes (for serving)
How to Make Refreshing Strawberry Sangria
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
Start by washing and hulling the strawberries, then slice them into thin pieces. Slice one orange into rounds and juice the other. This ensures you get both the flavor and visual appeal of the fruit in your sangria.
Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a large pitcher, add the sliced strawberries and orange rounds. Pour in the white wine, orange juice, and orange liqueur. Stir gently to combine.
Step 3: Sweeten the Mix
Add honey or simple syrup to the pitcher, starting with 2 tablespoons. Taste and adjust the sweetness to your preference. Remember, you can always add more later.
Step 4: Chill the Sangria
Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the fruit to infuse the liquid.
Step 5: Add the Fizz
Just before serving, pour in the sparkling water or lemon-lime soda. This adds a refreshing fizz and lightens the drink.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Fill glasses with ice cubes, pour the sangria over, and garnish with fresh mint leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of summer flavors!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Choose quality wine: Since wine is the base of this recipe, opt for a bottle you’d enjoy drinking on its own.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste as you go and adjust the honey or simple syrup to suit your preference.
- Let it marinate: The longer the sangria chills, the more flavorful it becomes. Overnight is ideal.
- Experiment with fruit: Add other berries, peaches, or even apples for a fun twist.
- Serve cold: Always serve the sangria well-chilled for the most refreshing experience.
- Make it non-alcoholic: Substitute the wine with white grape juice and omit the liqueur for a kid-friendly version.
FAQs
Can I use red wine instead of white wine?
Absolutely! While white wine keeps it light, red wine can create a richer, deeper flavor profile.
How long does strawberry sangria last?
It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days, as the fruit may become too soft after that.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it’s better when made ahead so the flavors can meld. Just add the sparkling water or soda right before serving.
What can I use instead of orange liqueur?
You can skip it or replace it with a splash of fresh orange juice and a bit of vanilla extract for a similar depth of flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the wine and liqueur you use are gluten-free, this sangria is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Enjoy making and sipping this delightful Strawberry Sangria—it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering! Cheers!
