Spain – a land famous for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine. But did you know that Spanish drinks are just as delicious as their food? From classic cocktails to refreshing summer sippers, Spain has a wealth of tasty beverages to quench your thirst. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 authentic Spain drink recipes that will transport you straight to the sun-kissed streets of Barcelona or the charming piazzas of Madrid.
From fruity sangrias to creamy horchatas, and from classic gin tonics to unique spritzers, there’s something for everyone in this collection of refreshing Spanish drinks. So grab a glass, sit back, and get ready to experience the flavor and passion of Spain!
Sangria with Fresh Citrus and Berries
This refreshing sangria recipe combines the sweetness of fresh citrus fruits and berries with a hint of wine, perfect for warm weather gatherings. With minimal effort, you’ll be serving a fruity and bubbly drink that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of white wine (Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio work well)
– 1 cup mixed citrus fruits (orange, lemon, lime), sliced
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 liter sparkling water
– Sliced fruit and ice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine sliced citrus fruits and berries.
2. Sprinkle sugar over the fruit mixture and stir gently.
3. Add white wine to the pitcher and stir until well combined.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, add chopped fresh mint leaves and sparkling water to the pitcher. Stir gently.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional sliced fruit and ice.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus refrigeration time)
Classic Spanish Horchata
Horchata is a traditional Spanish drink that’s perfect for hot summer days or as a refreshing pick-me-up any time of the year. This recipe makes a delicious and creamy version of this beloved beverage.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups long-grain rice
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup cinnamon sticks, broken into pieces
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the rice again, then blend with 4 cups of fresh water until smooth.
3. Add the cinnamon sticks, sugar, and vanilla extract to the mixture and stir well.
4. Chill the horchata in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
5. Strain the drink through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or individual glasses.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold drink recipe!
Tinto de Verano with Lemon and Mint
Tinto de Verano, a classic Spanish drink, gets a refreshing twist with the addition of lemon and mint. Perfect for hot summer days, this citrusy and herbaceous beverage is sure to quench your thirst.
Ingredients:
– 1 liter red wine (Spanish Rioja or Tempranillo work well)
– 1/2 liter lemon-lime soda
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Handful of fresh mint leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pitcher with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the red wine, leaving about an inch at the top.
3. Add the lemon juice and stir to combine.
4. Pour in the lemon-lime soda and stir gently.
5. Muddle in the fresh mint leaves for a few seconds to release their oils and flavor.
6. Stir well and serve immediately over ice.
Cooking Time: None, just assemble and serve!
Spanish Sherry Cocktail with Orange Zest
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique and flavorful Spanish Sherry Cocktail, infused with the brightness of orange zest. This refreshing drink is perfect for warm evenings or as a delightful pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
• 2 oz Sherry wine (Fino or Manzanilla)
• 1 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1/2 oz triple sec
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Slice of orange, for garnish and zest
• Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add Sherry wine, orange juice, triple sec, and simple syrup.
3. Zest the orange slice over the mixture to release its oils and aromas.
4. Shake gently for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the cocktail into a chilled glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with an orange slice and serve.
Cooking Time: None (just shake and serve!)
Basque Kalimotxo with Cola and Red Wine
A classic Basque cocktail that combines the crispness of cola with the richness of red wine, perfect for a refreshing drink on any occasion. This simple yet flavorful mix is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Coca-Cola
– 1/2 cup full-bodied red wine (such as Rioja or Tempranillo)
– Ice cubes
– Lemon slice or orange twist (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the Coca-Cola, leaving about an inch at the top.
3. Carefully pour in the red wine, allowing it to flow slowly into the cola.
4. Stir gently once or twice to combine, then serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None required! This cocktail is ready to drink as soon as you mix the ingredients.
Tips:
– Adjust the ratio of cola to wine to your taste.
– Experiment with different types of red wine for unique flavor profiles.
– Garnish with a lemon slice or orange twist, if desired, for added visual appeal.
Traditional Spanish Agua de Valencia
Agua de Valencia is a refreshing and flavorful drink originating from the city of Valencia, Spain. This sweet and citrusy beverage is perfect for hot summer days or as a pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/2 cup lemon juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, dissolved)
– Slice of lemon and orange for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the water, orange juice, and lemon juice.
2. Add the simple syrup and stir until dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Serve the Agua de Valencia over ice in tall glasses and garnish with a slice of lemon and orange.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a non-cooked beverage.
Chilled Gazpacho Smoothie
Beat the heat with this creamy and flavorful smoothie that combines the richness of gazpacho with the coolness of ice. Perfect for hot summer days, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup cucumber, peeled and seeded
– 1/4 cup red bell pepper, seeded
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine tomatoes, yogurt, cucumber, bell pepper, and olive oil.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth.
3. Add smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1-2
Spanish Cava Mimosa with Peach Nectar
This refreshing twist on the classic mimosa combines the crisp, fruity flavors of peach nectar with the rich, bubbly taste of Spanish Cava. Perfect for a brunch or morning gathering, this cocktail is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of Spanish Cava
– 1 cup of peach nectar
– 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice
– Slice of orange for garnish
Instructions:
1. Chill the Cava in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a large pitcher, mix together the peach nectar and orange juice until well combined.
3. Pour the chilled Cava into the pitcher with the peach nectar mixture.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Spanish Cava Mimosa with Peach Nectar over the ice.
6. Garnish each glass with a slice of orange.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in no time!)
Almond Milk and Cinnamon Horchata
This Mexican-inspired drink combines the richness of almond milk with the warm, comforting flavor of cinnamon. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a unique beverage to serve at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk (or to taste)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together almond milk and water until well combined.
2. Add sweetened condensed milk and whisk until dissolved.
3. Stir in ground cinnamon and vanilla extract.
4. Refrigerate mixture for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Spanish Gin Tonic with Juniper Berries
Experience the essence of Spain’s iconic cocktail, elevated by the subtle flavor of juniper berries. This refreshing drink is perfect for warm evenings or as a sophisticated twist on a classic G&T.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Spanish gin
– 4 oz tonic water
– Juice of 1 lime (about 1/2 oz)
– 6-8 juniper berries, crushed
– Ice cubes
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the Spanish gin and lime juice.
3. Add the crushed juniper berries and stir gently to combine.
4. Top with tonic water and stir briefly.
5. Squeeze a lime wheel over the drink and drop it in.
Cooking Time: None, just mix and serve!
Enjoy your Spanish Gin Tonic with Juniper Berries!
Refreshing Lemon and Rosemary Agua Fresca
Beat the heat with this revitalizing drink, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up on a hot day. This citrusy and herbaceous agua fresca is infused with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey or to taste
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the water and lemon juice.
2. Add the chopped rosemary leaves and let it infuse in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, stir in the honey until dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture further by adding ice cubes and stirring gently.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None needed! This agua fresca is a refreshing and thirst-quenching drink perfect for hot summer days.
Spanish Vermouth on the Rocks with Olives
– 2 oz Spanish Vermouth (such as Vermut Rojo)
– 1 oz olive brine
– 1/4 cup pitted and sliced green olives
– Ice cubes
– Orange twist or slice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the Spanish Vermouth and olive brine.
3. Add the sliced green olives on top of the liquid.
4. Garnish with an orange twist or slice, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (simply mix and serve)
Pineapple and Mint Sangria Blanca
A refreshing twist on traditional sangria, this Pineapple and Mint Sangria Blanca combines sweet and tangy flavors with a hint of cool mint. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or outdoor celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle white wine (Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio)
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine white wine, pineapple juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add the chopped fresh mint leaves and let it infuse for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Just before serving, add the pineapple chunks to the pitcher.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the sangria over the ice.
5. Stir gently and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is ready to drink as soon as you assemble the ingredients.
Spanish Coffee with Brandy and Cinnamon
Elevate your coffee game with this rich and flavorful Spanish Coffee recipe infused with brandy and cinnamon. Perfect for a cozy evening or a special occasion, this drink is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong espresso
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 ounce brandy (or other liquor of your choice)
– Whipped cream and cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of strong espresso into a large mug.
2. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
4. Remove from heat and add the ground cinnamon. Let it steep for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Pour the warmed cream mixture into the espresso, holding back the foam with a spoon.
6. Add the brandy and stir gently to combine.
7. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a warm drink.
Raspberry and Basil Spanish Spritz
This refreshing twist on the classic Spanish Spritz combines the sweetness of raspberries with the brightness of basil, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Prosecco
– 1 cup soda water
– 1/4 cup raspberry puree
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Lemon slices and ice cubes for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine Prosecco and soda water.
2. Add raspberry puree and stir until well combined.
3. Muddle in fresh basil leaves using a muddler or the back of a spoon to release oils and flavors.
4. Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
5. Chill mixture in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve over ice with lemon slices, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing drink is ready in just a few minutes.
Chilled Melon and Mint Sangria
Beat the heat with this refreshing summer sangria that combines sweet melon with cooling mint.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed honeydew or cantaloupe melon
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1 bottle white wine (chardonnay or sauvignon blanc)
– 1 cup mixed berry juice (such as pineapple, orange, and grapefruit)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Sliced fruit (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the cubed melon and chopped mint.
2. Pour in the white wine and mixed berry juice. Stir to combine.
3. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
4. Chill the sangria in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional sliced fruit if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (chilling time)
Spanish Hot Chocolate with Churros
This rich and creamy hot chocolate is a staple in Spanish culture, typically served with crispy churros for dipping. Enjoy the perfect combination of sweet and savory in this indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
For the hot chocolate:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 2 tablespoons Dutch-process cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the churros:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the hot chocolate has thickened slightly.
3. Meanwhile, preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
4. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add eggs and mix until a dough forms.
5. Fry churros in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve hot chocolate with warm churros and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Citrus and Thyme Infused Agua de Sevilla
This refreshing drink combines the bright flavors of citrus with the subtle charm of thyme, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a revitalizing pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– Slices of orange and grapefruit for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the water, orange juice, and grapefruit juice.
2. Add the sprigs of thyme to the pitcher and let it infuse in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Strain the mixture before serving to remove the thyme sprigs.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with slices of orange and grapefruit if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! Let the flavors meld together while it infuses in the refrigerator.
Spanish Mojito with White Rum and Lime
Experience the refreshing twist on a classic mojito with this Spanish-inspired recipe, featuring white rum and lime. The subtle sweetness of the white rum pairs perfectly with the tangy lime juice, mint leaves, and soda water.
Ingredients:
• 2 oz white rum
• 1/2 lime, cut into wedges
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• Soda water
• Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint leaves and lime wedge with a muddler or spoon to release the oils and flavors.
2. Add the white rum and sugar; shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine.
3. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes. Strain the mixture into the glass.
4. Top with soda water and stir gently.
5. Garnish with an additional lime wedge and a sprig of mint, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 minutes (preparation), 10-15 seconds (shaking)
Pomegranate and Rosemary Sangria Roja
This refreshing sangria combines the tartness of pomegranate with the earthy flavor of rosemary, perfect for a warm evening gathering. This Spanish-inspired drink is sure to be a hit at your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle red wine (Rioja or similar)
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Slice of orange and sprig of rosemary for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine red wine, mixed berries, pomegranate juice, and sugar. Stir until sugar dissolves.
2. Add chopped rosemary leaves to the mixture and stir well.
3. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
4. Serve sangria over ice in glasses and garnish with a slice of orange and sprig of rosemary.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Summary
Discover the refreshing world of Spanish drinks with these 20 authentic recipes. From classic sangrias to innovative twists on traditional cocktails, this collection has something for every palate. Try your hand at making a fruity Sangria with Fresh Citrus and Berries or a spicy Tinto de Verano with Lemon and Mint. Or, indulge in a rich Spanish Sherry Cocktail with Orange Zest or a bold Basque Kalimotxo with Cola and Red Wine. Whatever your taste, these recipes will transport you to the sun-kissed streets of Spain.
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