Watermelon Margarita: A Surprising Take on Summer Sips

November 13, 2024

Why This Margarita Matters Right Now

Most margaritas taste like lime and tequila, predictable, sharp, a little too loud. But this one? It’s a whisper of cold watermelon juice, almost like biting into a juicy wedge but with a bit of salt and tequila chasing it down. It’s not about the showy garnish or the fancy salt-rim. It’s that moment when you bite into a perfectly ripe watermelon—bright, slightly grainy, with a hint of earthiness—and turn it into something you want to sip in the shade.

Real food for the summer, when the heat makes you crave liquid clouds, not heavy meals. This recipe feels accidental in a good way, like it was meant to be a secret ingredient in your weekend. Or maybe a reason to buy that extra watermelon, even though you know you’ll eat half of it before anyone shows up.

Watermelon Margarita

This cocktail combines fresh watermelon juice with tequila and a touch of salt, resulting in a light, refreshing beverage. The drink has a smooth, slightly cloudy appearance, with a vibrant pink hue and a chilled, watery texture that emphasizes the fruit's natural juiciness.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups cubed ripe watermelon seeded or seedless
  • 1/4 cup tequila preferably blanco
  • 1 dash salt for rimming glasses and balancing flavor
  • 1 lime lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 1-2 teaspoons simple syrup optional, to taste
  • ice cubes ice for chilling and shaking

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cocktail shaker or mixing glass
  • Strainer
  • Serving glasses

Method
 

  1. Prepare the watermelon by cutting it into small cubes and removing seeds if necessary. Measure out about 4 cups of cubed watermelon and place them into a blender.
    4 cups cubed ripe watermelon
  2. Blend the watermelon on high speed until smooth and liquidy, approximately 30-45 seconds. Strain the juice through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher to remove pulp and create a clear, vibrant pink juice.
    4 cups cubed ripe watermelon
  3. Fill a cocktail shaker or mixing glass with ice cubes, about half full. Add 1/4 cup of tequila, 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice, and 1 teaspoon of simple syrup if using. Pour in 1 cup of watermelon juice.
    1/4 cup tequila, 1 lime lime juice, 1-2 teaspoons simple syrup, 4 cups cubed ripe watermelon
  4. Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, until the mixture is well chilled and slightly frothy. You should see condensation on the outside of the shaker and a slight temp drop.
  5. Prepare glasses by rimming the edges with lime juice and dipping them into salt to coat. Strain the cocktail into the prepared glasses, ensuring a smooth pour with minimal pulp.
    1 dash salt
  6. Garnish with a small wedge of lime or a small slice of watermelon if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing, chilled watermelon margarita.

And honestly, I keep thinking I should stop at just one glass but never do. It’s the kind of drink that makes you wonder if you could squeeze just a little more watermelon in there before it’s too late. Or maybe that’s just me.

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