:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__simply_recipes__uploads__2018__06__Watermelon-Margarita-LEAD-VERTICAL-c624d5eee6724b11bb1ae5006437cdf9.jpg)
When it comes to cocktails, the situation dictates the drink. If you’re having a swanky steak dinner, then that’s a martini sort of meal.
Headed to a picnic and Shakespeare in the Park? That begs for the boozy Pomegranate Paloma, swigged from a flask. (Assuming you’re seeing a comedy. If it’s a tragedy, go with something bitter, such as a Dark and Stormy.)
But if the weather is sporting triple digits and I’m floating on a raft in the pool, then it’s time to go for something juicier and far more thirst quenching. Enter the watermelon margarita.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__simply_recipes__uploads__2018__06__Watermelon-Margarita-6-2d506203b38443df8ca0189365f2b8d8.jpg)
For the most part, this is a classic margarita with a skosh more tequila and a lot of fresh watermelon. The resulting cocktail is fruiter than the original and its strength will sneak up on you, but in this case I’ll call that a good thing.
- Want to know the best tequila to buy? Check out our Tequila Guide!
This is also a margarita that I encourage you to have with salt, even if you normally don’t care for it. It adds a necessary bit of balance to all the sweetness.
More Summery Cocktails!
- Classic Margarita
- Blueberry Pitcher Margaritas
- Frozen Strawberry Daiquri
- Mixed Berry Sangria
- Mint and Lime Mojito
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups tequila blanco (also called plato or silver tequila)
- 1/2 cup orange liqueur, such as Triple Sec or Cointreau
- 1/2 cup lime juice
- 4 cups chopped seedless watermelon
- Simple syrup or agave nectar, if needed to sweeten
- Kosher or other high quality salt, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for garnish
Method
-
Blend the ingredients:
Place tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and seedless watermelon in a blender and give ’em a good whirl. (You may have to do it in two batches depending on the size of your blender.)
Note: If you happen have a juicer, simply juice the watermelon and stir it with the other ingredients in a pitcher.
-
Strain out the watermelon solids:
Pour the ingredients through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher, pressing the solids to get as much liquid out as you can.
Leela Cyd Ross -
Prep the glasses:
Assuming you imbibe with flair, take a small plate or bowl and fill it with the salt. Next, rub the rim of a cocktail or coupe glass (or a canning jar) with a wedge of a wedge of lime. Dip the glass into the salt and give it a small turn or two.
Leela Cyd Ross -
Serve and garnish:
Pour the cocktail into the prepared glasses and garnish with a lime wedge.
Leela Cyd Ross