I don’t drink alcoholic beverages, so when I taste or see virgin recipes I’m anxious to try them. My husband and I are avid cruisers and the first thing I like to get when I walk on to the ship is a virgin pina colada, they are so divine. When I went to the Harmons Blogger Event – City Creek we were served this AMAZING sangria recipe. I’ve never had the alcoholic version of sangria (although I must say I’ve wanted to try it – I love all things fruity!). One sip and EVERYONE wanted the sangria recipe. Everyone. It’s that delicious people.
Already we were spoiled with the fine dining experience, and this drink was the icing on the cake. When I learned there was basil in it I thought to myself ‘no way, really?’. Who knew? I certainly didn’t. You can’t even taste it, yet for whatever reason it adds so much. You can read all about my love for Harmons here, and it’s no lie. Even during my latest grocery shopping trip for a few things I kept saying to myself and out loud to my husband just how much I love Harmons. The staff are so friendly. One of the items you’ll need for this sangria recipe is SOM Drinking Vinegar (wierd right? Totally works). I couldn’t find it, so I asked an associate. Not only did they stop what they were doing, but they walked me right over to where it was.
That’s just one small example. Of course while I was there I had to make a stop by the bakery. Harmons + fresh bread = can’t leave the store without a loaf. So I snagged a sample of the roasted garlic sourdough bread (swoon), picked up a half loaf (you can do that!) and learned a few things from the baker. Seriously. Grocery shopping at Harmons is not only an experience as I like to call it, but it’s also educational. Love.
Virgin Sangria Recipe
An out of this world virgin sangria recipe that can be enjoyed by the whole family!
Ingredients
- 3 pkg. strawberries washed
- 1 pkg. basil
- 1 pkg. thai basil
- 1 c. sugar
- 2 64 oz. Cranberry Raspberry Juice
- 1 2 liter Ginger Ale
- 1 2 liter Club Soda
- 1 c. SOM Thai Basil Drinking Vinegar
Instructions
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Remove stems and chop washed strawberries. In a medium sized bowl, mash together strawberries with basil (both) and sugar; let sit 5-10 minutes.
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In a large pitcher stir together remaining ingredients.
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Add strawberry/basil mixture; mix well. Serve chilled.
Recipe Notes
This recipe serves a crowd. If you don't need to feed an army, this recipe can easily be halved.
Adapted from Harmons
I LOVE virgin sangria, but this looks beyond fabulous! Plus, I’m already addicted to those drinking vinegars, so this is a win-win.
Yvonne
It IS beyond fabulous! Seriously – so yummy. I will need to pick your brain on what else you do with those vinegars, I need more ideas!
Laurie
So does “pkg” of basil mean the size that is a bunch or bundle tied together with a twist tie or the kind that comes in a little plastic package, but is only about a third or a quarter of the amount in a bunch? Sounds so good! Vinegar by the seafood and meat? Hmm? Must be some other fun ways to use it. This is my challenge to you to find another recipe for it. LOL
Yvonne
Great question – I bought the pre-packaged basil from Harmons. It would probably equate to a small bundle. I definitely will need to find another way to use it, because I have lots left! Great challenge – watch for the recipe :)