April 16, 2012 /

White Sangria

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Welcome to the 58th edition of Mangia Mondays! This weekly blog hop is a collaboration I’m thrilled to co-host with the incredibly talented Kristin from Delightfully Dowling. If you haven’t already explored her blog, you’re truly missing out. Kristin’s creations are a feast for the senses, offering everything from savory indulgences like Puff Pastry Wrapped Apples with Cheddar and Bacon to decadent desserts like Dulce de Leche Cupcakes. And if that isn’t impressive enough, she’s currently training to become a professional chef, so you can trust that every recipe she shares is an absolute masterpiece. Make sure to visit her corner of the internet for inspiration that’ll keep you coming back for more.

Here at home, my kids are reveling in their school vacation week, and it’s shaping up to be a glorious one with sunshine-filled days ahead. Adding to the excitement, we’re looking forward to my brother-in-law’s wedding this coming weekend. If my presence here is a bit sporadic, it’s because we’re soaking up every moment of this wonderful combination of freedom from schedules and perfect weather. It’s the ideal time to enjoy family, friends, and, of course, good food and drink.

Speaking of celebrations, with Mother’s Day just around the corner, I recently shared a Blueberry Lemon Cake that’s perfect for a festive brunch. But today, I’m highlighting a recipe that’s equally delightful for Mother’s Day, or really any warm, sunny occasion: White Sangria. This refreshing drink is as versatile as it is delicious, and its vibrant presentation makes it a stunning addition to any gathering.

The Perfect White Sangria Recipe

White Sangria is one of those beverages that feels effortlessly elegant yet wonderfully simple to prepare. It’s a drink that evolves with the seasons, as you can easily customize it with your favorite fruits or whatever is currently in season. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, a garden party, or simply relaxing on a summer afternoon, White Sangria is guaranteed to impress.

Here’s the basic recipe I used, but feel free to adapt it to suit your tastes:

  • 1 bottle of white wine (Choose one you enjoy drinking; I opted for a Chardonnay, but any fruity white wine will work well.)
  • 2 tablespoons of Grand Marnier (Alternatively, you can use Triple Sec or Cointreau.)
  • 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar
  • Fresh fruit (The fun part! I used strawberries, white grapes, and lemon slices, but the possibilities are endless. Oranges, blueberries, peaches, nectarines, and apples are all excellent choices.)

How to Prepare

  1. Prepare Your Fruit: Begin by washing and slicing your fruit. If using citrus fruits like lemons or oranges, leave the rind on for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation. For larger fruits like peaches or apples, chop them into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Combine the Ingredients: Place the fruit in a large pitcher or bowl. Pour the white wine, Grand Marnier (or your chosen alternative), and powdered sugar over the fruit.
  3. Mix and Mash: Using a wooden spoon, gently stir the mixture, pressing the fruit slightly with the back of the spoon. This helps release the natural juices, infusing the sangria with even more flavor.
  4. Chill and Wait: The key to truly exceptional sangria is allowing the flavors to meld. Cover the pitcher and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least a few hours, though overnight or up to three days is even better. The longer the fruits mingle with the wine and liqueur, the richer and more complex the flavors will be.

When you’re ready to serve, pour the sangria over ice and include a generous scoop of the fruit in each glass. Not only does the fruit add visual appeal, but it also provides a delicious treat to enjoy once the drink is gone. Picture yourself sitting on the deck, sipping this refreshing concoction, and chatting with friends as the warm breeze rolls by. It’s pure bliss in a glass.

Why White Sangria?

White Sangria is more than just a drink; it’s an experience. Its light, fruity profile makes it ideal for warm-weather gatherings, and its customizable nature means you can tailor it to suit any occasion or guest preference. From a casual barbecue to an elegant brunch, this beverage is always a crowd-pleaser.

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. Not a fan of strawberries? Swap them for raspberries or kiwi. Prefer a drier wine? Opt for Sauvignon Blanc instead of Chardonnay. Want to add a tropical twist? Include pineapple or mango. The possibilities are endless, ensuring you’ll never tire of this delightful drink.

Join the Mangia Mondays Community

Now that you have the perfect recipe for White Sangria, I’d love to hear what’s been cooking in your kitchen lately! Whether you’ve tried a new recipe, discovered a fantastic restaurant, or have a kitchen tip to share, feel free to link up a blog post or leave a comment below. Mangia Mondays is all about celebrating the joy of food and the connections it brings.

As we head into another week, I hope you’ll find time to savor good food, good company, and maybe even a glass of sangria. Cheers to making every moment delicious!

So, what do you say? Shall we toast to sunny days and flavorful sips? Come on over—I’ll pour you a glass, and we can dream up our next culinary adventure together. Happy Mangia Mondays, friends!

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