Sexy Summer Sangria

This cool, summery sangria is smooth and lightly spiced. The honey and ginger give this fruity concoction a deep, sultry layer of flavor that you’ll absolutely love. Enjoy on ice as-is or topped with a splash of soda water to make a spritzer. This drink pairs perfectly with a delicious grilled steak dinner and a colorful summer salad, like the Zesty Mandarin Salad found in Chapter 2.

Serves 4–5

• Juice of 2 oranges
• 3 tablespoons raw organic honey
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon freshly ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 bottle red wine (pinot noir works well)
• 2 oranges cut into thin slices (remove skin from oranges to eliminate bitterness)
• 1 peach, pitted and cut into thin slices
• 1 pear, peeled and cut into thin slices

1. Combine fresh orange juice, honey, water, ginger, and cinnamon in a small sauce pot. Heat over medium heat; whisk to combine all ingredients, and allow the honey to melt. This should only last about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

2. Add wine, sliced fruit, and the orange juice mixture to a large pitcher and stir. Refrigerate overnight, and serve chilled on ice.