While no one really needs a reason to enjoy a margarita, the fact that Cinco de Mayo is just around the corner gives you the perfect excuse to work on your mixologist skills and whip up some margs in your own kitchen.
Cinco de Mayo, which takes place on May 5, commemorates Mexico’s victory over France at the 1862 Battle of Puebla. Contrary to popular belief, it is not the official Mexican Independence Day, and isn’t even considered a major holiday in Mexico. It has, however, become a fairly big celebration in the United States, honoring the history and culture of the Mexican people.
As part of that celebration, we’ve rounded up some delicious variations of your favorite margarita recipes, all of which are as easy to make as they are to drink! For the best flavors, you might want to use a higher end brand of tequila like Patron Silver, but any of your favorite tequilas will work just fine, as well as using fresh lime juice as opposed to bottled when possible.
Traditional Scratch Margarita
No need to mess with perfection with this traditional margarita. Rim your glasses by dipping them in a little water then coating the edges in salt or sugar. Combine 1.5 oz tequila, 1 oz fresh lime juice, and 1 oz simple sugar in a cocktail shaker with ice, shaking until well mixed and chilled. You can add a little extra flair by floating a teaspoon of Cointreau on top of your drinks prior to serving, or you can serve your margaritas over ice for an “on the rocks” presentation.
Spicy Jalapeno Margarita
Add an extra kick to your cocktail with a spicy jalapeno margarita! Combine 2 oz tequila, 1 oz fresh lime juice, 1 finely diced jalapeno (include the seeds for more heat!) and 1 tablespoon agave syrup into a cocktail shaker with ice, shaking until well blended and cold. Rim your glasses with kosher salt and fill with ice, then strain the margarita into the glass and garnish with lime wedges.
Frozen Watermelon Margarita
This frozen concoction tastes just like summer and is a festive addition to any celebration. Simply freeze 2 cups of diced, seedless watermelon until solid, then put them in a blender with 2 oz tequila, 1 oz fresh lime juice and 1 oz triple sec. Blend until slushy and pour into salt or sugar rimmed glasses. Garnish with a wedge of watermelon.
Pink Lemonade Margarita
Combining the best flavors of childhood with a little grown up indulgence, pink lemonade margaritas are refreshing, light and sweet. Rim your glasses with sugar or salt and fill with ice. Mix 2 oz tequila, 1 oz lime juice, 2 oz triple sec and 4 oz pink lemonade in a cocktail shaker with plenty of ice. Shake until well-blended and cold, then strain into glasses.
Skinny Margarita
If you’re looking to indulge but don’t want the extra calories, skinny margaritas are so good, you won’t feel like you’re missing out on a thing. Start with 2 oz of your favorite tequila and add 2 oz fresh lime juice, 1 oz fresh squeezed orange juice and 2 teaspoons agave syrup. Shake in a cocktail shaker with ice until chilled. Salt your glasses and fill with ice, then pour the mixture over the ice and enjoy.
