Watermelon margaritas are irresistible on hot summer days. Based on the classic margarita, this recipe pairs tequila blanco (white), triple sec, and lime juice with the sweet taste of fresh watermelon juice. Add a cool mint garnish if you like. It takes minimal effort and you’ll have a refreshing watermelon cocktail to enjoy in just a few minutes.
For this watermelon margarita recipe, you don’t have to dig out the blender (unless you’d like to), and there’s no need to process it into juice first. Instead, all you need is a muddler and a cocktail shaker. Watermelon is naturally very juicy and the easiest fruit to juice. The cubes break down easily with just a few turns of the wrist, while straining removes the seeds and pulp.
When served over a lot of ice, this makes two mellow cocktails. If you prefer to serve it without ice, it’s a tall drink for one person.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup sea salt, for rimming
- 3 lime wedges, for rimming and garnish
- 1 cup watermelon cubes
- 2 ounce tequila
- 1 ounce triple sec
- 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice, from 1 large lime
- Watermelon wedges, garnish
- Mint sprigs, garnish
Steps to Make It
- In a cocktail shaker, muddlethe watermelon cubes into a juicy pulp.
- Fill the shakerwith ice and add the tequila, triple sec, and lime juice.
- Shake well.
- If desired, rim two double old-fashioned glasses: Wet the rim by wiping it with a lime wedge, then dip or roll it into the salt.
- Use both a cocktail strainer and a mesh strainer to fine-strain the drinkover fresh ice into the prepared glasses.
- Garnish with watermelon and lime wedges and a sprig of mint. Serve and enjoy.
Tips
- This recipe is a great use for leftover watermelon or the grocer’s pre-cut wedges. You can also use bottled 2 to 3 ounces of watermelon juice and skip the muddle.
- While cubing the watermelon, cut small wedges with the rind to use as a garnish.
- When rimming the glasses, some people prefer to roll it on the side rather than dipping it straight into the salt. The advantage of rolling is that none of the salt will drop into the drink and alter the taste.
- If you’re not sure that you’d like the rim, dress up only half the glass so you can sip from either side as you drink. Plain salt or sugar are good alternatives when you’d prefer to skip the spice.
Recipe Variations
- As with many margaritas, this one is excellent when frozen. Simply toss all of the ingredients into a blender with 1 cup of ice (about 5 or 6 average cubes) and blend until smooth. For more of a spiked watermelon slushy, use 2 cups of frozen watermelon cubes and skip the ice.
- Other fruits that pair well with watermelon can be muddled in as well. Try blueberries, cantaloupe, mango, raspberries, or strawberries, or add a few lime wedges. Cucumber and watermelon are a perfect match, too.
How Strong Is a Watermelon Margarita?
A casual cocktail, this watermelon margarita is relatively light and similar to a glass of wine. On average, its alcohol content will fall in the 12 percent ABV (24 proof) range. That makes it a good choice for hot days when it’s best to keep alcohol to a minimum in order to avoid dehydration.