Strawberry Basil Sangria

I was enjoying the pleasure of Kathie Lee & Hoda on the Today Show yesterday when they mentioned that May 25 was National Wine Day! Say what?

I googled it and I'm not 100% sold that it's an accurate holiday, however do we really need a holiday to have a nice wine?

Wine? Friday? All in moderation? Let's go!

Last weekend Kyle & I had our own 2 person wine & cheese party. It was a blast and nobody had to drive anywhere. #safetyfirst

We purchased cheese from the Farmers' Market and selected a bold red wine from The Fresh Market.

Our cheeses included a "drunken goat" and Havarti jalapeno. My fave was the jalapeno.  It was spicy, soft, and creamy.  Oh I was a BIG fan.

We served it with gluten-free lentil chips and gluten free rice crackers (my take on this~ obviously this was an indulgent meal. I thought that adding in a healthier cracker that was still tasty over crisped bread was a good choice.)  I also made my own olive tapenade and a quick tomato bruschetta (sans bread).
I had a brilliant idea and remembered that we had a habanero cranberry jam that I got from a foodie penpal. It paired perfectly with the Havarti.  Amazing.

It was such a perfect plate of food. Heavenly and indulgent.

The delicious Sangria?

The inspiration from Pinterest, basil from my herb garden, and wine from Trader Joe's. I highly recommend this refreshing blend for you own National Wine Day celebration.

Strawberry Basil Sangria
Ingredients:

• 1 bottle Chardonnay
• 6 ounce lemon lime soda
• 1 cup Club soda
• 1 diced apple
• 1 pint of strawberries, sliced
• 1 ounce torn basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

Directions:

• Dice apple and slice strawberries. If desired, sprinkle with sugar and allow to sit for 10-15 minutes.
• Rub the basil leaves together to release their scent and add to fruit.
• Place fruit & basil mixture in the bottom of a pitcher.
• Add club soda, soda, and wine.
• Cool and enjoy.

I recommend enjoying this al fresco and without ice in your glass. I also don't own a nice glass pitcher. Hosting fail. I used 3 mason jars for my sangria and I think it was quite rustic. :)

What type of wine is your favorite?

Love and cheers,

Carissa & Kyle