Watermelon Margarita

Tart, fruity, and the prettiest shade of pink, a watermelon margarita might just be the perfect summer cocktail. In the heat of summer, when watermelon is at its sweetest, add some to a blender for a quick and easy juice which makes for the freshest cocktail mixer. Strawberry margaritas are deliciously sweet, pomegranate margaritas are addictively tart, but a watermelon margarita marries all of the best qualities of a margarita into the perfect tequila drink.

How much sugar is in a watermelon margarita?

The amount of sugar in a watermelon margarita is entirely up to you and should be decided based on the sweetness of the watermelon and how you like your cocktails. For this recipe, start by making a fresh watermelon juice by simply blending watermelon cubes until they break down. For a super smooth drink, strain this mixture, then stir it together with lime juice and tequila. Taste and add simple syrup, or another liquid sweetener such as agave or even maple syrup, as you like. A ripe watermelon, purchased at the height of summer, may have enough natural sweetness so that no additional sugar is required. 

Is triple sec necessary for margaritas?

For a classic margarita, triple sec is a delicious addition. Triple sec not only adds a hint of orange zest flavor but is also slightly more viscous than tequila and adds nice texture. For this watermelon margarita, we like to let the sweet watermelon and tart lime juice shine. Triple sec is not necessary. If you prefer to add it, make the drink with 6 ounces of tequila (instead of 8 ounces) and 2 ounces of triple sec.

For a special occasion, try a Cadillac margarita. With aged tequila and orange liquor such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier (great substitutes for triple sec), it's as smooth and easy drinking as it gets!