Simple Sangria - Good Housekeeping

Don't know if you can beat Leigh's Martha Stewart Sangria from Jessica's Bridal Shower, but worth a shot.


Simple Sangria

- triple-tested at The Good Housekeeping Research Institute

The name is derived from sangre, Spanish for "blood," and this ruby-red concoction is truly the essence of any proper fiesta. Stud your pitcher with whatever fruits look good at the market, making sure to load up on sangria's signature citrus. We love merlot or Shiraz, but you can create a lighter punch with a crisp white or rosé. No need to spend a bundle -- an inexpensive bottle will do the trick. Salud!
Ingredients
1 bottle (1.5 liter) red wine
1 1⁄2 cups fresh orange juice
1⁄3 cup brandy
1⁄3 cup sugar
2 nectarines, pitted and cut into wedges
1 orange, cut in half then sliced
1 lemon, sliced
1 Kirby (pickling) cucumber, sliced
3 cups seltzer or club soda, chilled
Ice cubes
Directions
1. In 3- to 4-quart pitcher, combine wine, orange juice, brandy, and sugar; stir until sugar dissolves.

2. Stir in fruit and cucumber. Cover and refrigerate until well chilled, at least 3 hours or overnight.

3. To serve, stir seltzer into pitcher. Fill glasses with ice and pour sangria.

Photo: Tara Donne
Cooking Information
Servings 12
Prep Time 10 minutes plus chilling
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories 160
Sodium 20 mg
Carbohydrates 16 g
Fiber 1 g
Protein 1 g