Sangria

Originating in Spain , Sangria comes from the word "Sangre", which means "blood". This drink is served cold and is a wonderful accompaniment to an outdoor summer party. It is important to note that highly acidic fruits such as pineapple should be avoided in a sangria because they detract from the flavor rather than enhancing it.

1 ripe peach, pitted and sliced
1 red apricot, pitted and sliced
5 strawberries, sliced in thirds
1 seedless orange, sliced in rounds
¼ cup brandy, Grand Marnier, or Cointreau
Pinch of granulated sugar
1 bottle dry red or white wine, such as Spanish Rioja or Bordeaux
2 tablespoons superfine sugar
2 cups freshly squeezed orange juice

Macerate the fruit: Soak peach, apricot, strawberries, and orange in brandy, Grand Marnier, or Cointreau and a pinch of sugar for up to one hour. In a pitcher with some ice, combine the macerated fruit and liqueur with the remaining ingredients. Mix well, and serve.

Raspberry Lemonade Punch

1 (12 fluid ounce) can frozen raspberry lemonade concentrate
3 cups water
3/4 teaspoon lime juice
1 (12 fluid ounce) can or bottle lemon-lime flavored
   carbonated beverage

1 cup crushed ice
1 cup fresh raspberries, garnish
1 cup fresh mint, garnish

In a large punch bowl, combine raspberry lemonade concentrate, water and lime juice. Stir in lemon-lime soda and crushed ice. Garnish each glass with a fresh raspberry and a  mint leaf. Try serving with rich chocolate too!

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