Olive Garden Sangria Recipe

There’s something special about sipping a refreshing glass of sangria, and with the Olive Garden sangria recipe, you can bring that experience home.

You’ll find that this sangria combines red wine with a delightful mix of fruit juices and fresh fruit slices. Oh such a nice balance!

One tip is letting the sangria sit in the refrigerator for at least four hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

I love how versatile this recipe is; you can easily tweak it by adding your favorite fruits or even a splash of soda for some added fizz.

How to Make Olive Garden Sangria Recipe

Ingredients

• 1.5 Liters Red Wine
• 12 oz Ginger Ale
• 6 oz Watermelon Syrup
• 1 Orange (sliced)
• 8 Strawberries (sliced)
• 1/4 cup Sweet Vermouth
• 1/4 cup Simple Syrup
• 2 tbsp Grenadine
• 1 cup Cranberry Juice
• Ice Cubes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Combine the red wine, sweet vermouth, grenadine, and cranberry juice in a large pitcher.

Stir gently to mix all the flavors together.

Step 2:

Add ginger ale and watermelon syrup to the mix.

Stir again, ensuring that everything is well combined.

Step 3:

Wash and slice the orange and strawberries.

Add these to the pitcher, and ensure the fruit is evenly distributed.

Step 4:

Add ice cubes to the pitcher to chill the sangria.

Allow it to settle for a while so the flavors can blend well.

Step 5:

Pour the sangria into glasses, filling each with a mix of drink and fruit.

Garnish the glasses with additional fruit slices, if desired.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Chill Before Serving

Refrigerating your sangria for an hour or two before serving really enhances its flavor.

The chilling time lets the drink absorb the fruity goodness.

Experiment with Fruit

Feel free to switch up the fruits with other seasonal ones like peaches or berries for a different twist!

Yum, right?

Adjust Sweetness

If you like your sangria on the sweeter side, you can add more simple syrup.

Be careful not to overdo it as the ginger ale and fruit also add sweetness.

Add Fresh Mint

Adding a few mint leaves can give the sangria an aromatic boost that’s both refreshing and fragrant.

It adds an extra layer of flavor that surprises the taste buds too.

Avoid Over-Stirring

Too much stirring can make the sangria lose its fizz, especially with the ginger ale involved.

Gently stir with care to keep it bubbly.

These little tips can help make your sangria just perfect! Enjoy!

What to Serve with Olive Garden Sangria Recipe

Classic Breadsticks

You can’t go wrong pairing your sangria with classic Olive Garden breadsticks.

Their soft, buttery texture complements the fruity sangria flavors beautifully, making every sip a delight.

Fresh Caprese Salad

A fresh Caprese salad with ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil is perfect.

The light and refreshing nature of this dish pairs well against the sweet notes of the sangria.

Spicy Shrimp

Spice things up a bit by adding some spicy shrimp to the mix.

The heat from the shrimp creates a nice balance with the sweetness of the sangria.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus

This dish adds a luxurious touch to your sangria experience.

The salty prosciutto combined with tender asparagus offers a unique taste that pairs well with the drink’s fruity profile.

Grilled Peaches

Grilled peaches might not be the first thing you think of, but they’re fantastic.

The caramelized sugars and smoky notes from the grill bring out the best in your sangria.

Marinated Olive Platter

For something a little different, consider serving a marinated olive platter.

The briny flavors of olives offer a contrast that enhances your sangria’s fruitiness.

Variations and Substitutions

You can always put your own twist on the Olive Garden sangria recipe.

Try adding different fruits like peaches or berries for a burst of color and flavor!

A splash of Prosecco can add a bubbly touch if you enjoy some fizz in your glass.

Alcohol Choices

Feel free to experiment with different kinds of wine, such as a crisp Chardonnay or a sweet Riesling.

Substitute vodka with rum or tequila if you prefer a different spirit.

This change can create an entirely new taste sensation, that might become your favorite!

Non-Alcoholic Options

For a non-alcoholic version, replace the wine with grape juice or apple cider.

You can still achieve that delicious sangria taste without the alcohol, perfect for any occasion.

Use sparkling water or a lemon-lime soda for a bit of sparkle.

Sweeteners

If you like it sweeter, add a bit of simple syrup or swap it with agave nectar.

Adjust to your taste, making your homemade sangria perfect just for you!

How to Store Leftover Olive Garden Sangria

Storing your leftover sangria is simple and effective when you follow a few basic steps to maintain its flavorful taste.

To keep the sangria fresh, always use an airtight container to avoid any unwanted odors or flavors from mixing in.

Start by straining the remaining sangria to remove any fruit and ice before storing to prevent dilution or spoilage.

It’s always best to store your sangria in the refrigerator, which will help to maintain its refreshing qualities.

How Long to Store

You can generally keep your sangria chilled in the refrigerator for up to five days without losing too much of its delightful essence.

Preparing for Enjoyment Later

When you’re ready to pour another glass of your chilled sangria, just add fresh fruit and ice before serving to maintain its vibrant presentation and taste.

Using the Right Container

Make sure you choose a glass or plastic container with a tight lid, which will ensure your sangria stays fresh and flavorful until you’re ready for more enjoyment!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Warm Wine

Using warm wine is a common misstep when making sangria.

Chilled ingredients maintain a refreshing taste, so refrigerate both the wine and fruit beforehand.

Overpowering Flavors

Balancing flavors is crucial.

Overloading the sangria with too many ingredients can overpower the delicate notes.

Stick to a few complementary fruits and avoid excessive spices or sweeteners.

Skipping Fresh Ingredients

Fresh fruit makes a big difference in taste and presentation.

Opt for ripe, in-season fruits to enhance the vibrancy and flavor.

Avoid canned or frozen alternatives when possible.