National Tequila Day is the perfect excuse to mix up some creative and delicious tequila-based cocktails. As tequila continues to gain popularity, driven by premiumization and celebrity endorsements, there’s never been a better time to explore new recipes and enjoy the rich diversity of tequila-based drinks.
In 2023, tequila sales in the United States have experienced impressive growth, continuing a strong upward trend. According to industry analyses by Beverage Dynamics and Mordor Intelligence, the tequila market is projected to expand significantly, driven by increasing consumer interest in premium and craft spirits. Key factors include the rising popularity of celebrity-backed brands and a growing preference for additive-free products, perceived as healthier and more authentic. This makes it an exciting time for tequila lovers and a trend worth watching for both consumers and industry professionals.
Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or adventurous concoctions, these margaritas have got you covered. Dive into these 9 tequila-based cocktail recipes and elevate your summer celebrations!
1. Original Margarita
A timeless classic, the Original Margarita was created in 1941 at Hussong’s Cantina in Ensenada, Mexico. Crafted by bartender Don Carlos Orozco, it was named after Margarita Henkel, the daughter of a German ambassador, who was the first to try the drink.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Clase Azul Reposado Tequila
- 1 oz Triple Sec
- 1 oz Organic Agave Nectar
- 1.5 oz Fresh-Squeezed Lime Juice
- Kosher salt for rimming the glass
Instructions: Rim a pint glass with lime juice and kosher salt. Squeeze half a lime into a mixing glass, add the tequila, triple sec, and agave nectar. Shake well with ice and strain into the salt-rimmed glass filled with ice.
Where to find: Hussong’s Cantina, The Shoppes at Mandalay Place, Las Vegas.
Interesting Fact: Hussong’s Cantina in Ensenada, where the Margarita was invented, is the oldest cantina in Mexico still in operation.
2. Strawberry Margarita
A delightful twist on the classic margarita, the Strawberry Margarita adds a sweet and tangy strawberry flavor, making it perfect for a refreshing summer drink.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Sauza Tequila
- 1 oz Fresh Strawberry Purée
- 1 oz Lime Juice
- 1 oz Simple Syrup
Instructions: Blend all ingredients with ice until smooth. Pour into a chilled glass and garnish with a strawberry slice.
Where to find: El Segundo Sol, Fashion Show Las Vegas.
Interesting Fact: Strawberry Margaritas can be served blended or on the rocks, catering to different texture preferences.
3. Margarita de Piña
For a tropical twist, the Margarita de Piña incorporates pineapple juice, enhancing the drink’s refreshing qualities with a sweet and tart flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Reposado Tequila
- 1 oz St-Germain
- 1 oz Agave Nectar
- 1 oz Fresh Lime Juice
- 2 oz Pineapple Juice
Instructions: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a pineapple slice.
Where to find: Javier’s, Aria, Las Vegas.
Interesting Fact: Pineapple juice adds not only sweetness but also a slight tartness that balances the flavors of the tequila and lime.
4. Margarita de Jalapeño
For those who enjoy a spicy kick, the Margarita de Jalapeño combines the tartness of lime with the heat of jalapeño for a bold and exciting flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Reposado Tequila
- 1 oz St-Germain
- 1 oz Agave Nectar
- 1 oz Fresh Lime Juice
- 1 oz Orange Juice
- Sliced Jalapeño for garnish
Instructions: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a glass with ice. Garnish with a jalapeño slice.
Where to find: Javier’s, Aria, Las Vegas.
Interesting Fact: The spiciness of jalapeño in cocktails can vary greatly depending on how much of the pepper is used and whether the seeds are included.
5. Palomita
A variant of the classic Paloma, the Palomita includes hibiscus syrup and agua fresca, giving it a refreshing and floral twist.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Mezcal
- 2 oz Grapefruit Juice
- 1 oz Hibiscus Syrup
- 1 oz Fresh Lime Juice
- 1 oz Agua Fresca
Instructions: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a glass over ice. Garnish with a grapefruit wedge.
Where to find: Mama Rabbit, Park MGM, Las Vegas.
Interesting Fact: Hibiscus syrup adds a unique floral note and a vibrant red color to the cocktail, making it visually appealing.
6. Cocorita
Blending coconut flavors with tequila, the Cocorita creates a creamy and exotic drink perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Cabo Wabo Tequila
- 1 oz Lime Juice
- 1 oz Crème of Coconut
- Toasted Coconut for garnish
Instructions: Blend ingredients with ice until smooth. Pour into a glass and garnish with toasted coconut.
Where to find: Cabo Wabo Cantina, Miracle Mile Shops, Las Vegas.
Interesting Fact: The use of crème of coconut makes the Cocorita a rich and indulgent treat, ideal for those who enjoy tropical flavors.
7. Mama’s Margarita
Mama’s Margarita allows drinkers to choose their preferred level of spice and salt, making it a versatile option for various palates.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Blanco Tequila
- 1 oz Orange Juice
- 1 oz Lime Juice
- Salt (optional)
- Jalapeño slices (optional)
Instructions: Shake ingredients with ice, strain into a glass, and adjust with salt or spice as desired.
Where to find: Mama Rabbit, Park MGM, Las Vegas.
Interesting Fact: This customizable margarita allows patrons to tailor their drink exactly to their liking, making it a popular choice for diverse tastes.
8. El Segundo Big Stick
This vibrant frozen cocktail combines various liqueurs with a classic frozen margarita, creating a visually striking and flavorful drink.
Ingredients:
- 4 oz Frozen Sauza Margarita
- 0.5 oz Chambord
- 0.5 oz Blue Curaçao
- 0.5 oz Midori
Instructions: Layer the ingredients in a glass with the frozen margarita at the base. Serve immediately.
Where to find: El Segundo Sol, Fashion Show Las Vegas.
Interesting Fact: The layered effect of the El Segundo Big Stick makes it a visually appealing cocktail, perfect for social media posts.
9. Fertility Dance
This cocktail’s mixture of Casamigos Blanco with exotic flavors like vanilla, guava, and strawberry makes it a standout choice.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Casamigos Blanco Tequila
- 0.5 oz Vanilla Syrup
- 0.5 oz Guava Purée
- 0.5 oz Strawberry Purée
- 0.5 oz Citrus Juice
- Mint for garnish
Instructions: Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into a glass, and garnish with mint.
Where to find: Lucky Day, East Fremont District, Las Vegas.
Interesting Fact: The combination of guava and strawberry purée in the Fertility Dance gives it a unique and exotic flavor profile that is both fruity and slightly tart.
Celebrate National Tequila Day with these extraordinary margaritas, each offering a unique twist on the classic cocktail. Whether you prefer your margaritas sweet, spicy, tropical, or creamy, there’s something here to delight every tequila lover’s palate. Cheers to discovering new flavors and enjoying the rich diversity of tequila-based drinks!
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