Watermelon Margarita: The Best Refreshing Summer Cocktail
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
The watermelon juice can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a stir before using, as it may separate slightly. Do not freeze the juice; thawed watermelon juice becomes watery and loses its bright flavor. For a party, mix the margarita base (juice, lime, tequila, orange liqueur, agave) and refrigerate. Shake with ice per serving—this keeps the drink fresh and cold without dilution.
Takeaway
A great watermelon margarita is about balance: the sweetness of the melon, the tartness of lime, and the clean burn of tequila. Fresh juice is the key. Strain it well, shake it cold, and serve it with a salted rim. That's all it takes. Cheers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a watermelon margarita without a blender?
Yes, you can muddle seedless watermelon chunks in a bowl with a muddler or the back of a spoon, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve. This takes a bit more effort but works well.
What type of tequila is best for a watermelon margarita?
Silver (blanco) tequila is best because its clean, crisp flavor lets the watermelon shine. Avoid aged or reposado tequilas, as their oaky notes can clash with the fruit.
How do I make a pitcher of watermelon margaritas?
Multiply the ingredients by the number of servings. Combine the watermelon juice, lime juice, tequila, orange liqueur, and agave in a pitcher. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Pour over ice in individual glasses—don't add ice to the pitcher or it will dilute.
Can I use bottled watermelon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh watermelon juice gives the best flavor and color. Bottled juice often has added sugar or preservatives and a cooked taste. If you must use bottled, look for 100% juice with no added sugar, and adjust the agave accordingly.
How do I get a smooth texture without pulp?
Blend the watermelon thoroughly, then strain through a fine-mesh strainer. Press on the pulp with a spatula to extract all the liquid. For an even smoother drink, strain twice or use a nut milk bag.
Recipe: Watermelon Margarita
Equipment
- Blender
- fine-mesh strainer
- citrus juicer
- cocktail shaker
- jigger
- 2 rocks glasses
Ingredients
- 3 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 pound)
- 2 ounces freshly squeezed lime juice (from about 2 limes)
- 4 ounces silver tequila
- 1 ounce orange liqueur (like Cointreau or triple sec)
- 1/2 ounce agave syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup ice cubes
- For the rim: coarse salt or Tajín (plus a lime wedge)
Instructions
- Place the cubed watermelon in a blender. Blend on high until completely smooth, about 30 seconds.
- Pour the watermelon puree through a fine-mesh strainer set over a bowl or large measuring cup. Press on the solids with a spatula to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the pulp. You should have about 1 cup of juice.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the watermelon juice, lime juice, tequila, orange liqueur, agave syrup, and a handful of ice cubes (about 1 cup).
- Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 15 seconds until the shaker feels very cold.
- Prepare the glasses: run a lime wedge around the rim of each glass, then dip the rim into a shallow dish of salt or Tajín to coat.
- Fill the glasses with fresh ice. Strain the margarita mixture into the glasses, dividing evenly.
- Garnish with a small watermelon wedge or lime wheel. Serve immediately.