The watermelon margarita is a summertime refresher that combines the sweet, juicy taste of watermelon with the bright kick of lime and the tranquil buzz of tequila. It’s a bright, colorful drink well suited for backyard barbecues, poolside lounging, or any celebration on a sunny day. This drink is a deliciously hydrating cocktail that brings out the fruitiness of the coconut with crisp melon and classic margarita goodness by mixing it all together.
How to Make Homemade Watermelon Margarita
It’s simple and fun to make a watermelon margarita. Fresh watermelon is pureed into a juice, then combined with lime juice, tequila, and a kiss of orange liqueur. A touch of sweetener helps balance the flavors, and a salted rim makes the drink even more refreshing. Serve it on the rocks, or shake it into a frozen version, for added cooling.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cubed fresh watermelon (seedless)
- 2 oz silver tequila
- 1 oz triple sec (or orange liqueur)
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp agave syrup or simple syrup optional
- Ice cubes
- Lime wedge and small slice of watermelon for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Glass: Rub lime juice around the rim of your margarita glass then dip it in salt or sugar.
- Blend the Watermelon: Add watermelon cubes to a blender and blend until smooth.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a shaker, add the watermelon juice, tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and agave syrup. Add ice and shake well.
- Serve: Strain the mixture into the glass over ice.
- Garnish: A lime wedge and a slice of watermelon for garnish.
Serving Suggestions
- Try it with grilled seafood, shrimp skewers, or fish tacos, for a beachy feel.
- Serve with fresh fruit platters as a light appetizer.
- Pair with spicy fare such as nachos or jalapeño poppers to balance the attack.
- Serve as part of a summer cocktail bar with other fruity margaritas.
- Serve in a hollowed-out watermelon for an impressive party centerpiece.
Tips and Variations
- Go fresh/frozen with frozen watermelon cubes for an instant frozen margarita.
- Use Cointreau instead of triple sec for a deeper orange flavor.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle chili powder or tajín onto the rim.
- Use flavored tequila, such as jalapeño-infused tequila or coconut tequila.
- For a mocktail version, replace the tequila and triple sec with sparkling water.
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail
Nutrition information (estimated):
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sugar: 14g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 0g
Ingredient Substitutes
- Agave syrup: Substitute agave syrup for honey or maple syrup.
- Fresh watermelon: Use store-bought watermelon juice if a fresh watermelon is not available.
- Lime juice: Substitute lime juice for lemon juice for a slightly different citrus note.
- Tequila: Replace the tequila with mezcal for a smoky taste.
- Orange liqueur: Replace the orange liqueur with a splash of orange juice for a lighter version.
FAQs
Can I make this drink ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the watermelon juice and margarita mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Shake with ice before serving.
How can I prepare a frozen version?
Blend with ice and frozen cubes of watermelon for a slushy texture.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is ideal, but bottled lime juice will suffice in a pinch.
What is the best tequila for margaritas?
Silver or Blanco tequila is the best choice for its crisp, clean flavor.
Do I need to refrigerate leftover watermelon juice?
Store It in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
The watermelon margarita encapsulates summer in every sip with notes so as to leave you feeling downright boisterous. A crowd-pleaser for any occasion, its combination of juicy watermelon, tart lime, and tequila is special. Whether poured on the rocks or blended into a frosty treat, this drink is sure to be a favorite. The sweetness of summer made it simple!
Watermelon Margarita Recipe
Ingredients
Instructions
Prepare the Glass
Rub lime juice around the rim of your margarita glass then dip it in salt or sugar.
Blend the Watermelon
Add watermelon cubes to a blender and blend until smooth.
Mix the Ingredients
In a shaker, add the watermelon juice, tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and agave syrup. Add ice and shake well.
Serve
Strain the mixture into the glass over ice.
Garnish
A lime wedge and a slice of watermelon for garnish.
