Are you ready to beat the heat this summer? Look no further than Spain, where refreshing drinks are a staple of warm-weather gatherings. From fruity sangrias to fizzy tonics, Spanish drinks are perfect for sipping on a patio or sharing with friends at an outdoor fiesta.
Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a new way to enjoy your favorite summer flavors, we’ve got you covered with 18 refreshing Spain drink recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic cocktails like Sangria and Tinto de Verano, to sweet treats like Horchata de Chufa and Leche Merengada, there’s something for everyone in this collection of delicious drinks.
So why not start your summer off right with a glass (or two) of these amazing Spanish drinks? Let’s dive in and explore the many flavors that Spain has to offer!
Sangria with fresh oranges and apples
Elevate your summer gatherings with this refreshing sangria recipe featuring the sweetness of fresh oranges and apples. This fruity twist on a classic cocktail is perfect for warm weather celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 large orange, peeled and sliced
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, cored and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brandy (optional)
– Sparkling water
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the sliced orange and apple.
2. Add the granulated sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Pour in the red wine, making sure that the fruit is fully submerged.
4. If using brandy, add 1-2 tablespoons to the pitcher.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, add sparkling water and stir gently.
7. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None
Tinto de Verano with lemon and ice
Tinto de Verano is a classic Spanish summer drink that’s easy to make and perfect for hot days. This variation adds a squeeze of lemon juice and plenty of ice for an extra refreshing twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 liter red wine (Rioja or similar)
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in 3-4 oz (90ml) of red wine.
3. Squeeze in the juice of 1 lemon, about 1-2 teaspoons.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None
This refreshing drink is perfect for hot summer days or as a relaxing afternoon pick-me-up. The acidity of the lemon juice helps cut through the richness of the red wine, making it a well-balanced and revitalizing beverage.
Horchata de Chufa with cinnamon
A traditional Spanish drink from the Valencia region, Horchata de Chufa is a sweet and creamy beverage made from chufa nuts. This recipe adds a warm touch of cinnamon to give it an extra depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chufa nuts
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Soak the chufa nuts in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the nuts, then blend them with 2 cups of water until smooth.
3. In a large pitcher, combine the blended nut mixture, remaining 2 cups of water, sugar, and cinnamon. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve the Horchata de Chufa with cinnamon chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this drink requires chilling and soaking time.
Rebujito with sherry and lemon-lime soda
In the heart of Andalusia, Rebujito is a popular drink that combines the crispness of lemon-lime soda with the richness of sherry. This recipe puts a modern spin on the classic by incorporating citrusy notes from lemon-lime soda.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Fino or Manzanilla sherry
– 1/2 cup lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7-Up)
– Juice of 1 lime, for garnish
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the sherry, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
3. Top the sherry off with lemon-lime soda.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Cooking Time: None! Serve immediately and enjoy.
Agua de Valencia with orange juice and cava
A refreshing Spanish drink perfect for warm days or as a sparkling apéritif, Agua de Valencia combines the sweetness of orange juice with the effervescence of cava.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 cup cava (Spanish sparkling wine)
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the orange juice and sugar (if using). Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the cava to the pitcher and stir gently to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve the Agua de Valencia over ice in glasses and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required. This drink is ready to serve as soon as it’s chilled.
Kalimotxo with red wine and cola
Kalimotxo, a popular Basque drink, combines the bold flavors of red wine with the sweetness of cola. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for warm days or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red wine (Rioja or Tempranillo work well)
– 1 cup cola
– Lemon slice or orange peel for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the red wine, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
3. Slowly pour in the cola, allowing it to mix with the wine.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a lemon slice or orange peel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None!
Enjoy your Kalimotxo!
Leche Merengada with cinnamon and lemon zest
Leche Merengada is a beloved Venezuelan dessert that combines the richness of caramelized milk with the sweetness of meringue. This recipe adds a warm touch of cinnamon and a bright burst of lemon zest to create a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and turns a light caramel color.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
4. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites and salt until stiff peaks form.
5. Gradually pour the cooled milk mixture into the egg whites, whipping until smooth.
6. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle with lemon zest.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Granizado de Limón with crushed ice
A refreshing Spanish dessert that combines the sweetness of condensed milk and the tanginess of lemon, perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice. Mix well until smooth.
2. Add the grated orange zest and mix again.
3. Crush the ice into small pieces and add them to the mixture. Stir gently until the ice is fully incorporated.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the top (optional, but recommended for balance).
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional orange zest if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert requires no cooking at all. Just mix and serve.
Clara con Limón with beer and lemon soda
This refreshing Mexican-inspired drink is perfect for hot summer days. By combining the brightness of lemon soda, the richness of beer, and the sweetness of clara (a type of egg-based cocktail), you’ll have a unique and delicious beverage.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Claro (Mexican eggnog or substitute with vanilla-flavored coffee creamer)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup beer (any light-colored lager works well)
– 6 oz lemon soda
– Ice cubes
– Lemon wedges and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large glass, combine Claro and lemon juice. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the beer and stir gently to avoid creating foam.
3. Pour in the lemon soda and stir again.
4. Fill the glass with ice cubes and stir once more.
5. Garnish with lemon and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: None, this is a served-cold drink!
Ponche Caballero with brandy and spices
A rich and aromatic Venezuelan holiday drink, Ponche Caballero is a perfect blend of brandy, spices, and fruit. This recipe is a twist on the traditional version, adding a depth of flavor from the brandy.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pineapple juice
– 1 cup orange juice
– 1/2 cup brandy
– 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Sliced orange, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine pineapple juice, orange juice, and brandy.
2. Add brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Strain the Ponche Caballero into warm cups or mugs.
6. Garnish with sliced orange and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Zurracapote with red wine and peaches
Red Wine Peach Crisp
A sweet and savory twist on traditional fruit crisps, this recipe combines fresh peaches with rich red wine to create a unique dessert.
- 1 cup fresh peaches, sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Slice the peaches and combine with granulated sugar, red wine, cornstarch, and salt in a bowl. Mix well to coat.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add the mixture to the peach mixture and stir until combined.
Spoon the mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.
Crema de Orujo with coffee liqueur
Elevate your coffee game with this rich and creamy Crema de Orujo infused with the deep flavors of coffee liqueur. This Spanish-inspired dessert drink is perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons Orujo (Spanish fruit brandy)
– 2 tablespoons strong brewed coffee
– 2 tablespoons Kahlúa or other coffee liqueur
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the heavy cream over low heat.
2. Add the Orujo and stir to combine.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Strain the mixture into a bowl, discarding the solids.
5. Whisk in the brewed coffee and Kahlúa until well combined.
6. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding sugar if desired.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Queimada with Galician spirits and sugar
Queimada is a traditional Galician dessert that’s both sweet and fiery, perfect for special occasions. This recipe combines the warmth of spirits with the sweetness of sugar to create a unique treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup Galician spirits (such as Aguardiente or Orujo)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and 1/4 cup of water. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add the Galician spirits, lemon juice, and salt. Stir well to combine.
3. Return the mixture to medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture reaches a thick, syrupy consistency.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serve warm: Pour the Queimada into small cups or glasses and serve warm. Be careful, as it may still be hot! Enjoy as a special treat or at social gatherings.
Mosto with fresh grape juice
Mosto is a traditional Italian drink that’s perfect for warm weather. This recipe uses fresh grape juice to create a refreshing and fruity twist on the classic.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh grape juice
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the grape juice and water.
2. Stir in the sugar until dissolved, if using.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve the Mosto over ice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (just chill and serve)
Carajillo with coffee and brandy
Carajillo: A Spanish Coffee Cocktail with a Kick
Combine the richness of coffee with the boldness of brandy for a unique and flavorful cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong brewed coffee (about 1/2 cup)
– 1 tablespoon of brandy
– 1 sugar cube (optional)
– Whipped cream or cinnamon, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of strong coffee and pour it into a glass filled with ice.
2. Add the brandy to the coffee, stirring gently to combine.
3. If desired, add a sugar cube and stir until dissolved.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or strength of the drink as needed.
5. Garnish with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (prep time)
Total Time: 2-3 minutes (including brewing the coffee)
Jerez Cocktail with sherry and vermouth
The Jerez Cocktail is a refined and elegant drink that combines the nutty flavors of sherry with the subtle bitterness of vermouth. Perfect for those who appreciate complex, nuanced flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Fino Sherry
– 1/2 oz Dry Vermouth
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 dash orange bitters
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the sherry, vermouth, and lemon juice.
3. Add a dash of orange bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for approximately 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
Cooking Time: None (ready in 2 minutes)
Champurrado with chocolate and anise
This decadent champurrado recipe combines the richness of chocolate, the warmth of anise, and the comfort of traditional Mexican hot chocolate. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or as a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk or dark chocolate chips
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons anise seeds
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine chocolate chips, water, anise seeds, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the chocolate has melted and the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter until fully incorporated.
5. Pour into cups and serve immediately.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Té de Roca with herbs and honey
This traditional Portuguese tea is a perfect blend of soothing herbs, sweet honey, and gentle warmth. Té de Roca, or Rock Tea, is a comforting drink that warms the heart and soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon dried rockrose petals (Rosa centifolia)
– 1 tablespoon dried chamomile flowers
– 1 teaspoon dried lemon balm leaves
– 1 honey spoonful of pure honey
– 1 cup boiling water
Instructions:
1. Combine the dried herbs in a tea infuser or a heat-resistant cup.
2. Pour in the boiling water, making sure to cover the herbs completely.
3. Allow the mixture to steep for 5-7 minutes, or until the desired strength is reached.
4. Strain the tea into a cup and add the honey to taste.
5. Enjoy the soothing warmth of Té de Roca with Herbs and Honey.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Summary
Get ready to beat the summer heat with these refreshing Spanish drink recipes! From fruity sangrias to bubbly horchatas, we’ve got 18 delicious drinks that are perfect for your next gathering. Try classic combinations like Tinto de Verano or Kalimotxo, or experiment with unique flavors like Leche Merengada or Granizado de Limón. Whether you’re a fan of wine, beer, or spirits, there’s something for everyone in this collection of Spanish drink recipes.
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