This Easy Strawberry Lemonade Sangria is a refreshing drink that combines sweet strawberries with zesty lemonade. It’s perfect for parties or a sunny afternoon!
I’ve made this fruity drink for gatherings, and it’s always a hit! Just mix everything in a pitcher, chill, and serve. You might want to keep a glass for yourself first! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc is a great choice because it’s crisp and refreshing. If you want a sweeter option, consider Moscato. For a non-alcoholic version, use grape juice or non-alcoholic white wine alternatives.
Strawberry Lemonade: Store-bought lemonade works well, but you can easily make your own. Just mix equal parts lemon juice and water with sugar to taste. If strawberries are out of season, feel free to substitute with other berries like raspberries or blueberries!
Fresh Strawberries: Always go for ripe strawberries for the best flavor. If fresh ones aren’t available, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw them before adding.
Club Soda: Sparkling water is a good alternative if you’re looking to cut back on sodium. You could even use ginger ale for a sweeter, spicier twist!
How Can I Get the Best Flavor in My Sangria?
The key to a delicious sangria is the infusion time. Letting it chill in the refrigerator for a few hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Here’s how to get the best results:
- Combine the wine and lemonade first, letting that blend before adding the fruit.
- Choose ripe fruits for maximum flavor and visual appeal.
- Don’t skip chilling time! Infusing for 1-2 hours brings out the fruity goodness.
- Pour in club soda just before serving to keep the fizz and freshness intact.
Remember, tasting along the way is a fun way to adjust sweetness or find the perfect balance!
Refreshing Easy Strawberry Lemonade Sangria
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sangria:
- 1 bottle (750 ml) white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 2 cups strawberry lemonade (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup club soda or sparkling water, chilled
- Ice cubes, for serving
- Optional: 2 tbsp simple syrup or honey (if you prefer it sweeter)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Strawberry Lemonade Sangria takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 1 to 2 hours to chill and infuse in the refrigerator. A little patience goes a long way in enhancing those fruity flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
Start by pouring your chosen white wine into a large pitcher. Then, add the strawberry lemonade to the wine. This combination is going to be the delightful base of your sangria!
2. Adding Fresh Fruits:
Next, toss in the sliced fresh strawberries and the thin slices of lemon into the pitcher. These fruits will not only add flavor but also make your sangria look gorgeous!
3. Stirring It Up:
Gently stir the mixture with a spoon or ladle to combine everything nicely. You want the flavors to blend together without breaking up the fruit too much.
4. Chill Out:
Cover the pitcher and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill and infuse for at least 1 to 2 hours. This is where the magic happens as the fruit releases its tasty juices into the mixture!
5. Serving Time:
When you’re ready to serve, fill your glasses with ice cubes. Pour the flavored sangria over the ice, filling each glass about three-quarters full to leave room for the fizzy touch.
6. Adding the Fizz:
Top off each glass with a splash of chilled club soda or sparkling water. This will give your sangria a refreshing sparkle!
7. Garnishing:
If you like, add a slice of strawberry or lemon on the rim of each glass for a pretty garnish. It makes your sangria not only tasty but also visually appealing!
Enjoy your refreshing, fruity sangria that’s perfect for warm days or casual get-togethers!
FAQ for Easy Strawberry Lemonade Sangria
Can I Make This Sangria Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sangria up to a day in advance. Just follow the recipe until Step 4, then refrigerate it. Add the club soda just before serving to keep it fizzy!
What Wine Should I Use?
White wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio are perfect for this sangria because they’re light and crisp. If you prefer something sweeter, Moscato is a great alternative.
Can I Substitute the Strawberry Lemonade?
Yes, you can! If you’re out of strawberry lemonade, mix regular lemonade with a splash of strawberry puree or strawberry syrup for a similar effect. You can also use another fruit-flavored lemonade if you prefer.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Sangria?
Leftover sangria can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh, as the fruit can become mushy over time. If storing, hold off on adding the club soda until you’re ready to serve!
