We’ve always been huge fans of Carrabba’s Red Sangria a vibrant twist on a Spanish classic that brings bold flavors to any gathering. This refreshing drink combines rich red wine with fresh fruits and a hint of spice making it perfect for warm evenings or lively parties.
As food lovers we’re excited to share our take on this easy recipe. It’s a staple in our kitchen and we’re confident you’ll love how simple it is to recreate at home.
Ingredients
To recreate our Carrabba’s Red Sangria Recipe at home, we gather fresh, high-quality ingredients that blend seamlessly for a refreshing and vibrant drink. Below, we list them in the order they are used, with precise measurements and prep notes to ensure accuracy and ease.
- Red Wine: 1 bottle (750 ml) of a dry red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, chilled for optimal flavor infusion.
- Brandy: ½ cup of brandy, added next to enhance the depth and warmth of the sangria.
- Orange Juice: 1 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice, strained to remove pulp for a smooth texture.
- Fresh Oranges: 2 medium oranges, sliced into thin rounds to release their citrus oils during mixing.
- Fresh Lemons: 1 large lemon, sliced into wedges for a tangy brightness that balances the sweetness.
- Apples: 1 firm apple (like Granny Smith), cored and thinly sliced to provide crisp, fruity notes as they macerate.
- Sugar: ¼ cup of granulated sugar, dissolved to sweeten the mixture without overpowering the natural flavors.
- Club Soda: 1 cup of club soda, added last for a fizzy lift that makes the sangria light and effervescent.
- Cinnamon Stick: 1 whole cinnamon stick, included for a subtle spice that evokes the original Carrabba’s twist.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into mixing our Carrabba’s Red Sangria, let’s gather the essential tools that make preparation straightforward and enjoyable. Having the right equipment ensures we blend those fresh ingredients seamlessly for a vibrant, refreshing drink that captures the essence of this Spanish classic.
We recommend the following items to get started:
- Large Pitcher or Jug: A 2-quart glass or plastic pitcher works best for combining the red wine, brandy, and fruits, allowing ample space for stirring and chilling without spills.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: Use a sturdy wooden or plastic cutting board paired with a sharp knife to evenly slice the oranges, lemons, and apple, ensuring they release their flavors effectively into the mixture.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate 1-cup and ½-cup measures are crucial for precise portions of orange juice, brandy, and sugar, helping us achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and tang.
- Long-Handled Spoon or Stirrer: A wooden or metal spoon at least 12 inches long for thoroughly mixing ingredients in the pitcher, allowing us to distribute the cinnamon stick’s spice evenly.
- Strainer (Optional but Recommended): A fine-mesh strainer to pour the sangria into glasses, removing any fruit pulp or seeds for a smoother, more professional finish.
- Glasses for Serving: Wine glasses or tumblers (at least 8-10 ounces each) to showcase the rich colors and aromas of our finished Carrabba’s Red Sangria, enhancing the sensory experience for gatherings.
With these tools in hand, we’re all set to move forward and create a drink that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to sip.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s guide you through crafting our Carrabba’s Red Sangria with straightforward steps that ensure a vibrant, flavorful result every time.
Prepare the Fruits
Before mixing, we start by prepping the fruits to infuse maximum freshness and aroma into our Carrabba’s Red Sangria. Begin by rinsing 2 oranges, 2 lemons, and 1 firm apple under cold water to remove any residue.
- Slice the oranges and lemons into thin, even rounds using a sharp knife on your cutting board, aiming for about ¼-inch thickness to release their juicy essence and bright citrus notes.
- Core the apple and cut it into small, bite-sized cubes, ensuring even pieces for consistent flavor distribution throughout the drink.
This preparation enhances the visual appeal and adds a refreshing, tangy contrast to the wine’s richness.
Mix the Sangria
With the fruits ready, we move on to combining everything in our large pitcher to create the harmonious blend that defines our Carrabba’s Red Sangria.
- Pour 1 bottle of dry red wine into the pitcher, followed by ½ cup of brandy and 1 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice, stirring gently with a long-handled spoon to blend the liquids smoothly.
- Add ¼ cup of granulated sugar and stir until it dissolves, creating a balanced sweetness that complements the fruits’ natural tartness.
- Incorporate the sliced oranges, lemons, and cubed apple into the mixture, along with 1 cinnamon stick for a subtle spicy warmth that elevates the overall aroma.
- Finally, pour in 1 cup of club soda just before serving to add a fizzy lift, preserving its effervescence for that crisp, refreshing finish.
This step ensures the flavors meld together, resulting in a drink bursting with fruity depth and a captivating ruby hue.
Chill and Serve
To perfect our Carrabba’s Red Sangria, we focus on chilling and presenting it for the best sensory experience, allowing the flavors to intensify.
- Transfer the mixed sangria to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours, or ideally 4 hours, to let the fruits infuse their essence and create a cooler, more refreshing profile.
- When ready to serve, stir the mixture once more to redistribute the fruits, then pour into wine glasses or tumblers filled with ice cubes for a chilled, invigorating sip.
For an extra touch, garnish each glass with a slice of orange or lemon to enhance the visual allure and fruity aroma.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our Carrabba’s Red Sangria recipe is how easily it lends itself to preparation in advance, allowing flavors to deepen and making it perfect for parties or busy days. By planning ahead, we ensure the sangria is refreshingly vibrant and ready to serve with minimal last-minute effort.
Preparing the Sangria in Advance
Follow these simple steps to make your Carrabba’s Red Sangria ahead of time:
- Step 1: After mixing the fruits, wine, brandy, orange juice, sugar, and cinnamon stick as outlined in our earlier instructions, stir everything thoroughly in a large pitcher. This initial blend is crucial for allowing the ingredients to infuse properly.
- Step 2: Cover the pitcher tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent oxidation and refrigerate it immediately. We recommend chilling for at least 2 hours, but for optimal flavor melding, prepare it up to 24 hours in advance.
- Step 3: Just before serving, add the club soda to maintain its fizz. Adding it too early can cause the carbonation to dissipate, affecting the drink’s lively texture.
Storage Tips
To keep your Carrabba’s Red Sangria fresh and flavorful:
- Store the prepared mixture (without club soda) in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. Beyond this, the fruits may become overly soft, diminishing the drink’s appeal.
- If making a larger batch, divide it into smaller, airtight containers to preserve quality. Always stir gently before serving to redistribute settled fruits and spices.
Key Benefits of Making Ahead
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Enhanced Flavor | Allows the red wine, brandy, and fruits to harmonize, resulting in a more complex taste profile after 24 hours. |
| Time Savings | Reduces preparation time on the day of your gathering, letting you focus on other tasks. |
| Convenience | Ideal for events, as you can make it the night before and serve chilled over ice for a refreshing burst of citrus and spice. |
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve followed along with our take on Carrabba’s Red Sangria
It’s a simple joy that brings people together and elevates any gathering
Give it your own twist and watch it become a favorite in your home too
Cheers to creating memorable moments with every sip
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Carrabba’s Red Sangria?
Carrabba’s Red Sangria is a vibrant Spanish-inspired drink featuring rich red wine mixed with fresh fruits, brandy, and a hint of spice. It’s perfect for gatherings, offering a refreshing blend of flavors that’s ideal for warm evenings or parties. This easy recipe brings a restaurant favorite to your home, making it a staple for any occasion.
What ingredients are needed for Carrabba’s Red Sangria?
You’ll need 1 bottle of dry red wine, ½ cup brandy, 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice, sliced oranges and lemons, 1 cubed apple, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 1 cup club soda, and 1 cinnamon stick. These ingredients combine to create a balanced, fruity drink that’s both refreshing and flavorful.
What equipment is required to make Carrabba’s Red Sangria?
Essential equipment includes a large pitcher for mixing, a cutting board and sharp knife for slicing fruits, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a long-handled spoon for stirring, and an optional strainer. Use wine glasses or tumblers for serving to enhance the experience.
How do I make Carrabba’s Red Sangria?
Start by rinsing and slicing oranges, lemons, and cubing an apple. Mix the fruits with red wine, brandy, orange juice, sugar, and a cinnamon stick in a pitcher. Add club soda for fizz, then chill for at least 2 hours to blend flavors. Serve over ice with citrus garnishes for a vibrant presentation.
Can I make Carrabba’s Red Sangria ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it in advance to let flavors deepen, making it ideal for parties. Mix all ingredients except club soda, cover the pitcher, and refrigerate for up to 48 hours. This saves time and enhances taste, providing a convenient, refreshing option for busy days or events.
How should I store Carrabba’s Red Sangria?
Store the mixture (without club soda) in an airtight pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours to keep it fresh. This prevents oxidation and maintains the vibrant flavors. For best results, add club soda just before serving to retain its fizz. Always chill thoroughly before enjoying.