Go Ravens, and the Sangria didn't hurt either!

Well, it's only the second week in January, and already I've thrown two parties! I spoke a bit about my daughter's luau party last time, so it's time to talk fiestas!

As luck would have it, this party fell right in the middle of the Ravens playoff game. Born and raised in Baltimore, my husband is a die-hard fan and what better way to celebrate his 40th birthday than with spicy salsa, sizzling fajitas, and all his buddies there to watch the game. The make your own fajita bar with all the toppings sure was well received. Alongside of it we had tri-colored chips with salsa and guacamole, refried beans, Mexican rice, and a fresh taco salad. I have to say, great menu choice! Want to know the biggest hit of the night? That would be the Sangria! It seemed a group of 5 or 6 people were gathered around that sangria punch bowl every time I looked up. So it got me to thinking, and to writing about Sangria. I think it's HOT! Now, I know it's been around for years, but I think I've just discovered what a fabulous drink this is to serve at a party. The thing is, it's fun, festive, and oh, it's SO fruity! I am not a huge wine drinker because I need something with a little more something to it- and the Sangria has it! There are so many variations and different ways to create your own recipe- throw in pineapples, apples, lemons, oranges, kiwis, strawberries, peaches, a splash of this or that. This "wine punch" that found it's origin in Spain will always be a hit. It's easy to make, easy to drink, it's vibrant and refreshing.

Shhh... here is the secret to the yummiest Sangria on the planet. Hope it's as good for you as it was for me!

1.5 liters of Sangri de Toro wine
1 cup simple sugar (1 cup of sugar dissolved in 1 cup of water)
1 cup of white rum (or orange flavored rum)
1 cup of triple orange liqueur (Gran Torres)
3 oranges
2 lemons
1 apple
*Add a splash of orange flavored seltzer just before serving
*Best if made in the morning and chilled all day to drink at night