Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria
Olive Garden's Green Apple Sangria is a refreshing, fruity drink that's perfect for any occasion. Combining the tartness of green apples, the crispness of white wine, and a splash of citrus, this sangria offers a balance of flavors that’s both light and flavorful. A little brandy and triple sec add depth, while sweetened with a touch of sugar or simple syrup, making it a crowd-pleaser for summer parties, gatherings, or casual sipping. This easy-to-make recipe comes together in just a few steps and can be customized to your taste, so you can recreate this beloved drink from Olive Garden right in your own home.Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):Calories: 150-200 kcal (depending on the amount of wine and fruit used), Total Fat: 0g, Sodium: 5mgCarbohydrates: 20g, Dietary Fiber: 1g, Sugars: 18g, Protein: 0g, Alcohol Content: ~8-12% ABV (depending on wine used), Vitamin C: 10-15% of the Daily Value (DV) (from fruits like green apple and citrus)Estimated based on one serving (assuming 8 servings per batch)
Equipment
- Pitcher or Large Bowl (1) – For mixing the sangria
- Sharp Knife (1) – For slicing the fruit
- Cutting Board (1) – For prepping fruit
- Citrus Juicer (1) – To extract fresh lemon and lime juice
- Stirring Spoon (1) – For mixing the sangria ingredients
- Measuring Cup (1) – To measure liquids accurately
- Glassware (6-8) – For serving the sangria
Ingredients
- 1 bottle 750 ml – Dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 2 medium – Green apples sliced thinly
- 1/2 cup 120 ml – Fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/4 cup 60 ml – Fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup 60 ml – Brandy
- 1/4 cup 60 ml – Triple sec
- 2-3 tablespoons 30-45 g – Sugar (or simple syrup, to taste)
- Optional: 1/4 cup 60 ml – Lemon-lime soda or club soda (for fizz)
- Optional: Fresh mint sprigs or additional fruit slices for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Fruit:
- Wash and thinly slice the green apples. Slice the lemon and lime, and set them aside.If using, cut up any additional fruit (such as oranges or berries) for extra flavor.
Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large pitcher or mixing bowl, combine the white wine, lemon juice, lime juice, brandy, and triple sec. Stir well to mix.
Sweeten the Sangria:
- Add sugar or simple syrup, starting with 2 tablespoons, and stir until dissolved. Taste and adjust the sweetness as needed.
Add Fruit:
- Add the sliced apples and citrus to the sangria. Stir gently to distribute the fruit throughout the liquid.
Chill:
- Refrigerate the sangria for at least 2-4 hours, or overnight if possible. This will allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
Serve:
- When ready to serve, pour the sangria into glasses over ice. If desired, top with lemon-lime soda or club soda for some fizz.
Garnish and Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh mint sprigs or extra apple slices for a festive touch. Serve and enjoy your homemade Green Apple Sangria!
Notes
- Wine Selection: The wine you choose will significantly affect the flavor of the sangria. A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is best for a crisp and refreshing taste, but you can experiment with sweeter wines if you prefer a more sugary drink.
- Sweetness Adjustments: You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar. Alternatively, simple syrup can provide a smoother sweetness, while skipping the sugar will keep the sangria more tart and refreshing.
- Chill Time: Letting the sangria sit in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight allows the fruit flavors to infuse, resulting in a more flavorful drink. If you're in a hurry, even a couple of hours will still give great results.
- Fizzy Option: For a fizzy sangria, add a splash of lemon-lime soda or club soda right before serving. This adds a bubbly texture that enhances the drink’s lightness.