I would say Summer is the perfect time to relax by the pool, unwind and feel the breeze, but, since we have no breeze.. *insert eye roll here*... I will say it's the perfect time to sip Sangria. Naturally that means, everyone needs at least one perfect Sangria recipe for the season and that's where you are in luck.
Below is a link to a curated list of Hanging with the Heake's approved recipes that are sure to make the perfect party in a pitcher!
Note: (Article intended for those age 21+, and as always drink responsibly)
1. Red White and Blue Sangria
Refreshing, light and slightly fizzy this delicious summer sangria is sure to be a hit at your next shindig! With fresh fruit, Lemonade as a light base and Pinot Grigio (a dry, semi-sweet wine that's also low in acidity) guests are sure to enjoy! Plus, since there's fresh fruit - that makes it healthy, right? Check out the ingredients and a step-by-step video instruction in the directions below!
Ingredients:
1 bottle white wine – I used Pinot Grigio
1 1/2 cups sparkling lemonade
1/2 cup vodka
2 large granny smith apples
1 pint raspberries
1 pint blueberries
1 cup sliced strawberries
Directions/Picture Source: Pinterest/Made With Happy
2. Watermelon Sauvignon Blanc Sangria
Sauvignon Blanc is a wine that can range from dry to sweet with primary aromas of lime, green apple, passion fruit and white peach. Pairing well with watermelon and sparkling water to offset the sweet taste this drink is perfect for an afternoon sunbathing in the breeze or an alternate brunch drink. Check out the Luci's Morsels blog link below for directions!
Ingredients:
2 Cups watermelon juice (about 1/4 medium watermelon - instructions below)
1-750mL bottle Sauvignon Blanc
1 Cup sparkling water
6 Tablespoons Triple Sec
2-3 Cups chopped watermelon (flesh and rind)
Directions/Picture Source: Luci's Morsels Blog
3. Plum Sangria
Rosé, do you say? This summer sangria has all of my favorites! I'm a huge fan of Shirley Temple's (think Cherry 7Up) so for some the Maraschino Liqueur may taste like cough syrup, but I don't mind it. I don't think I've ever met anyone who doesn't enjoy a glass of Rosé and with fresh red plums and ginger this unique drink is sure to satisfy your tastebuds! Link to directions below!
6 red plums, such as Methley, sliced
6 star star anise pods
4 1/2 cups rosé wine
3 3/4 ounces maraschino liqueur
1 1/2 cups ginger beer
2 yellow plums for garnish
Directions/Picture Source: SeriousEats
4. Champagne Limoncello Sangria
Champagne and Limoncello, need I say more? Okay but seriously, this bubbly and refreshing berate is perfect for brunch, a romantic breakfast in bed or even a pre-game beverage that's light and energizing. Both Champagne and Limoncello are high in alcohol count so be sure to drink responsibly. Directions below!
Ingredients:
½ bottle prosecco
1 cup orange-pineapple juice
1½ cups limoncello
frozen whole strawberries and mango chunks
Directions/Picture Source: GoGoGoGourmet
5. Summer Bourbon Sangria
For a subtly heavier option try your Sangria with a little Bourbon. This recipe calls for Reisling (a dry, semi sweet wine), your choice of Bourbon, fresh fruit, mint leaves. The fresh mint compliments the variety of fruit and acting as a refreshing chaser to the slight taste of bourbon. With a high sugar content be sure to give guests plenty of water to avoid hangover the next day. Directions in the link below.
Ingredients:
1 bottle sweet white wine
¼ cup bourbon
4-8 Tbsps white sugar, add as much or less according to how sweet you want
1 orange, thinly sliced
2 peaches, chopped thin lengthwise
Around 14 blackberries (Roughly 1 cup)
6-7 fresh strawberries, thinly sliced
1 lime thinly sliced
1 tsp lime juice
Mint leaves
Directions/Picture Source: NaiveCookCooks
6. White Strawberry Lemon Sangria
With a base of a dry white wine and fresh fruit that is naturally sweet, this blend is a great beverage for tail dinner, summer cocktail parties and more! This recipe also makes great shots (if do not add fruit). Directions and details in the link below!
Ingredients:
2 lemons, thinly sliced
1 apple, cored and sliced (any kind)
1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced lengthwise
1 (750 ml) bottle white wine (a dry-ish white wine is best – I like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay)
1/2 cup light rum
4 cups lemon-lime soda
Directions/Picture Source: KitchenTreaty
7. Cucumber Melon White Sangria
For those that love Cucumber Vodka this is a great substitute! Light, refreshing and best over ice this is perfect for a late morning to afternoon affair. When temperatures are high and the breeze is low this drink is great for cooling off! Directions in the link below.
Ingredients:
1 bottle Sauvignon Blanc (or other dry white wine)
1/2 cup white tequila
1/2 cup St. Germaine
1 liter of Sprite (healthier substitution: carbonated water)
1/2 small Honeydew melon, cubed (I used a melon ball scoop, it makes for a visually appealing presentation)
1/2 cup fresh mint
1/2 cucumber, sliced thin
1 lime, quartered
1 lime, sliced thin
Directions/Picture Source: SimpleMost