Name: Zesty Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria for Refreshing Sips
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 bottle Moscato (Opt for a sweet Moscato to balance the tartness.); 1/2 cup Pucker Sour Apple Liqueur (Can be omitted for a lighter option.); 1 cup Pineapple Juice (Can be replaced with orange juice.); 2-3 apples Green Apple Purée (Make by cooking green apples with lemon juice.); 1 cup Strawberries (Fresh and seasonal.); 1 orange Orange (Can be swapped with lemons.); 1-2 apples Apple (Use firm green apples.)

As the sun sets on those warm summer evenings, nothing feels quite right without a refreshing glass of Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria in hand. This vibrant cocktail captures the essence of summer, blending the crisp tartness of green apples with sweet Moscato wine, making it an easy crowd-pleaser for any gathering. With the added zing of Pucker Sour Apple Liqueur and a delightful swirl of fresh fruit, you’ll impress your friends while indulging in a little self-care. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make—perfect for those who want a fuss-free, fruity drink without hours in the kitchen. Ready to elevate your next backyard barbecue or brunch? Let’s dive into this refreshing recipe that brings a splash of fun to your glass!

Why is this sangria a must-try?

Vibrant, Colorful Presentation: This Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria stands out with its stunning hues, making it an eye-catching centerpiece at any gathering.

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create this delightful drink without breaking a sweat. Perfect for busy hosts!

Refreshing Flavor Combination: The mix of tart green apples and sweet Moscato offers a crisp, fruity explosion that’s bound to please every palate.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to personalize it! Swap in seasonal fruits or even try different liqueurs to give it your unique twist. More ideas can be found in our variation section!

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a cozy brunch, this drink is the ideal companion. Pair it with light appetizers or grilled dishes for a festive culinary experience. Don’t forget to check our Pork Tenderloin Sauce for a tasty dish to serve alongside!

Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria Ingredients

For the Sangria Base

Moscato – The foundation of this cocktail, contributing sweetness and effervescence. Opt for a sweet Moscato to balance the tartness of the green apples.
Pucker Sour Apple Liqueur – Adds a zesty apple flavor; feel free to omit for a lighter option or substitute with another fruity liqueur.
Pineapple Juice – Introduces tropical notes that enhance the drink; replace with orange juice for a more citrus kick.
Green Apple Purée – Intensifies the apple flavor; make at home by cooking green apples with lemon juice to avoid browning.

For the Fresh Fruit Additions

Strawberries – Provide freshness and sweetness; seasonal berries can be used for a delightful variation.
Orange – Offers bright, citrusy flavors; swap with lemons for a tangier profile.
Apple – Adds tartness and texture; choose firm green apples for the best results.

This Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria is an absolute delight and guarantees a refreshing experience on warm days!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria

Step 1: Prepare Green Apple Purée
Begin by cutting 2–3 firm green apples into chunks and place them in a saucepan with a splash of water. Heat over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are slightly soft but not mushy. After cooking, transfer the apple mixture to a blender, add a tablespoon of lemon juice, and blend until smooth to create a vibrant green apple purée.

Step 2: Mix the Sangria Base
In a large pitcher, combine 1 bottle of chilled Moscato, 1 cup of pineapple juice, and 1/2 cup of Pucker Sour Apple Liqueur. Add the prepared green apple purée to the mixture and stir gently until everything is well blended. The combination should look bright and inviting, signaling a refreshing Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria waiting to be enhanced with fresh fruit.

Step 3: Add Fresh Fruit
Now it’s time to bring your sangria to life! Incorporate 1 cup of sliced strawberries, 1 orange sliced into rounds, and additional chopped green apple chunks into the pitcher. Mix gently using a large spoon, ensuring that the fruit is evenly distributed throughout the drink. Your sangria should burst with vibrant colors and fruit during this step.

Step 4: Chill and Serve
To allow the flavors to meld beautifully, cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling time will ensure your Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria is refreshingly cool. If you’re in a hurry, feel free to serve it immediately over ice, garnishing each glass with additional fruit slices for that appealing touch.

What to Serve with Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria

As the refreshing flavors of this sangria swirl in your glass, let’s explore delightful dishes that will complement its vibrant notes beautifully.

Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Juicy and smoky shrimp on skewers are perfect for summer. The lightness of shrimp highlights the cocktail’s fruity essence.
Caprese Salad: Bursting with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, this salad adds a refreshing touch that mirrors the sangria’s vibrant fruits.
Crispy Bruschetta: Topped with tomatoes and basil on crusty bread, these bites offer a satisfying crunch that pairs seamlessly with the cocktail’s effervescence.
Fruit Platter: A medley of seasonal fruits can enhance the fruity profile of the sangria. Think strawberries, melons, and kiwi for extra pops of color.
Chicken Tacos: Flavored with fresh herbs and citrus, these tacos provide zest and texture, matching the zing of your Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria.
Lemon Sorbet: To keep things refreshing, a scoop of tangy lemon sorbet serves as a palate cleanser that complements the apple tones.

Savor the harmony between these dishes and your sangria for an unforgettable dining experience, perfect for summer gatherings!

Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria Variations

Feel free to get creative with this sangria recipe, tailoring it to your taste and spice preferences!

Berry Bliss: Swap in fresh blueberries or raspberries for an added burst of fruity flavor that contrasts beautifully with the green apple.
Citrus Twist: Replace oranges with juicy grapefruit slices for a pleasantly tart flavor that brightens the drink.
Moscato Mix: Try a flavored Moscato, like peach or raspberry, for a sweet and fruity infusion that’s sure to delight your senses.
Mocktail Version: Omit the alcohol entirely! Use sparkling water and extra fruit juice to capture the same refreshing feel without the buzz.
Seltzer Spritz: Substitute pineapple juice with a flavored seltzer to lighten up and add a fizzy dimension to your drink.
Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of jalapeño for a surprising twist of heat that ignites your taste buds and adds complexity to the flavor profile.
Tropical Fusion: Incorporate coconut water instead of pineapple juice for a refreshing tropical vibe that transports you to a beach getaway.
Garnish Galore: Top your serving with a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of lime for a pop of color and an aromatic finish.

Feel inspired by these variations and feel free to experiment! If you’re looking for a delicious dish to complement your sangria, check out our Pork Tenderloin Sauce to pair with your refreshing drink. Enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria are perfect for busy hosts looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the green apple purée up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its vibrant color and freshness. The sangria base (Moscato, pineapple juice, Pucker Sour Apple Liqueur, and green apple purée) can also be mixed ahead of time, ideally within 3 days of your event, but hold off on adding the fresh fruit until just before serving to keep it crisp and colorful. When you’re ready to serve, simply stir in the sliced strawberries, oranges, and apple chunks, chill if needed, and enjoy this refreshing cocktail just as delicious as if made fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria

Fridge: You can store the sangria in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep it covered with plastic wrap or a lid to maintain freshness, but add fresh fruit just before serving for the best flavor.

Freezer: While it’s not ideal to freeze sangria due to fruit texture, you can freeze the green apple purée in ice cube trays for future use, lasting up to 3 months. Simply blend fresh fruit into your thawed purée when you’re ready to serve!

Reheating: This sangria is best enjoyed chilled, so skip reheating. If you prefer it iced, serve over fresh ice or blend with ice for a slushy consistency just prior to serving.

Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, allow the sangria to sit out for a maximum of 2 hours; after that, refrigerate any leftover to maintain its refreshing taste.

Expert Tips for Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria

Advance Preparation: Make the green apple purée ahead of time! This ensures quick assembly when you’re ready to serve, preventing last-minute stress.
Fruit Quality: Always use fresh fruits! Wilted or overripe produce can compromise the vibrant flavors and appearance of your sangria.
Wine Selection: Choose a Moscato that fits your taste preference. Sweeter Moscato balances the tartness of green apples, while a dry option can create a unique profile.
Fruity Enhancements: Experiment with different types of fruit! Peaches, blueberries, or even limes can add interesting flavor dimensions to your Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria.
Sparkling Touch: For a fizzy twist, add a splash of club soda right before serving to elevate the refreshment level and spark excitement in each glass!
Chill Time: Allow the sangria to chill for at least an hour before serving. This enhances flavor infusion and ensures a crisp, refreshing sip.

Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria Recipe FAQs

What type of apples should I use for the sangria?
For the best results, use firm green apples, as they provide the perfect balance of tartness and texture. Avoid overripe apples, which can become mushy and impact the overall freshness of your Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria.

How long can I store my sangria in the fridge?
You can store the sangria in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to keep it fresh. However, to preserve the fruit’s vibrancy and flavor, it’s best to add fresh fruit just before serving.

Can I freeze Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria?
While freezing the entire sangria isn’t ideal due to texture changes in the fruit, you can freeze the green apple purée! Pour the purée into ice cube trays and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the purée and blend in fresh fruit to reinvigorate the mixture.

What can I do if my sangria tastes too sweet or too tart?
If your sangria is too sweet, consider adding a splash of club soda to cut through the sweetness and add some fizz. Conversely, if it’s too tart, balance it out with a little more pineapple juice or sweet Moscato to enhance the flavors. Adjust according to your personal taste preference!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! If you are preparing this sangria for guests, inform them that it contains alcohol. Those with dietary restrictions may also want to avoid the Pucker Sour Apple Liqueur, which can be replaced with another fruit liqueur or entirely omitted for a lighter drink.