Authentic Spanish Manzanilla Olive Recipe

Ingredients

  • 750 ml bottle of manzanilla sherry
  • 1 orange
  • 1 lemon
  • 1 apple
  • 2 tablespoons of sugar
  • 1 liter of soda water
  • Ice cubes

Steps and instructions

  1. Pour the manzanilla sherry into a large pitcher.
  2. Wash the orange, lemon, and apple. Cut them into thin slices and add them to the pitcher.
  3. Add the sugar to the pitcher and stir until it dissolves.
  4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to blend together.
  5. Just before serving, add the soda water and ice cubes to the pitcher and stir gently to combine.
  6. Serve the manzanilla in chilled glasses, making sure to include a few pieces of fruit in each glass.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Replace the orange and lemon with lime for a citrus twist.
  • Add a splash of grenadine syrup for a touch of sweetness.
  • Garnish each glass with fresh mint leaves for added freshness.
  • Instead of soda water, use sparkling lemonade or ginger ale for a different flavor profile.
  • Add a splash of brandy or rum to give the drink more complexity.
  • Slice some fresh strawberries and add them to the pitcher for a fruity twist.
  • Create a mocktail version by omitting the sherry and replacing it with grape juice or apple cider.
  • Experiment with different seasonal fruits like peaches, berries, or pears.

Recipe overview

Get ready for a refreshing and flavorful Spanish beverage that will be the star of your summer parties. This delightful Manzanilla recipe is a fruity, bubbly blend of manzanilla sherry, fresh citrus fruits, sweet apples, and a splash of soda water for that extra fizz. It's a wonderfully simple drink to prepare and perfect for entertaining guests. The real magic happens when it's chilled and the flavors of the sherry and fruits meld together. So, whether it's a special occasion or a casual afternoon, this Manzanilla recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every sip!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of sherry instead of manzanilla? Yes, you can use a different type of sherry if you prefer. However, the flavor profile may differ slightly from the original recipe.
  2. Can I use other fruits instead of orange, lemon, and apple? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite fruits or use whatever fruits are in season.
  3. Is the sugar necessary? The sugar adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors. However, you can adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preference or omit it altogether.
  4. How long should I chill the mixture before serving? It is recommended to chill the mixture for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. However, if you're short on time, you can chill it for less time, although the flavors may not develop as fully.
  5. Can I substitute soda water with another carbonated beverage? Yes, you can substitute soda water with sparkling water or any other carbonated beverage of your choice.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Pitcher - A large pitcher to mix and serve the manzanilla.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for slicing the orange, lemon, and apple.
  • Stirring spoon - A long-handled spoon for stirring the ingredients in the pitcher.
  • Refrigerator - A refrigerator to chill the manzanilla mixture.
  • Glasses - Chilled glasses to serve the manzanilla.
  • Ice cube tray - An ice cube tray to freeze ice cubes for serving.

Origin stories

Manzanilla, a type of sherry, is deeply rooted in the Andalusian culture of Spain. Its name, which translates to "little apple" in Spanish, ironically doesn't have anything to do with apples. Instead, it's believed to be named after the chamomile flowers, also known as manzanilla in Spanish, that grow in the region. This sherry is exclusively produced in the coastal town of Sanlúcar de Barrameda, where the unique microclimate lends Manzanilla its distinctive fresh and delicate taste. Served chilled with slices of fruit, this refreshing cocktail is a delightful testament to the sun-soaked days and cool nights of Andalusia – a mirror of the region's vibrant culture and laid-back lifestyle.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.