Instant Sangria

A going-away party for a friend is not the place you expect to find something new. It’s a time for goodbyes, not hellos.

But that’s what happened to me last year when we threw a gathering for a friend who was leaving for a new job in Colorado where her new home would showcase mountains in the background.

So we said our farewells and best wishes amongst good friends, good food, and good drink. And that’s where I also said hello to a new favorite drink, the sangria. I had always wanted to try sangria but it’s one of those recipes that requires a little planning. The wine needs to marinate overnight with selected fruit; uniting flavors. I don’t often have the time (or the mental capacity) to think that far ahead.

That’s why I like the term, instant gratification. I know “instant gratification” has really gotten bad rap. And I agree, the concept sets up an unrealistic expectations. The only real “secret” for success in just about anything usually requires hard work and time.

But every now and then you can find a sweet spot of the easy life. Something that just comes kind of naturally. You know, like badminton. Or maybe this recipe.

Although forethought may not be my strong suit, inventiveness is. One night I was fixing dinner and thinking to myself, wouldn’t it be nice to be sipping some of that sangria right now? And that’s when the idea hit me. I combined a few of my favorite ingredients and voila! Instant Sangria!

It’s such a simple, light, and refreshing drink that it’s easy to make just about any night for dinner. I still enjoy a glass of sangria that has been seeped with fruit over time, but when the moment calls for it, Instant Sangria fills in quite nicely.

I miss my friend who is now happy off in Colorado. But you know the saying, where every door closes, a window opens. So I suggest we all make some Instant Sangria and raise a glass to good friends (both near and far), good food, and windows!