There’s nothing quite like the vibrant, refreshing burst of a Strawberry Margarita to elevate your day. This cocktail blends the sweet juiciness of ripe strawberries with the tangy zing of lime and the smooth warmth of tequila. Each sip is a perfect balance of fruity, tart, and slightly salty flavors, creating a drink that’s as delightful as it is indulgent. With just 20 minutes from start to finish, it’s an effortless way to bring a touch of summer to any occasion.
The velvety texture of blended strawberries mingles with the icy coolness of crushed ice, making every sip irresistibly smooth. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply unwinding after a long day, this margarita is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its bright, ruby-red hue and fresh aroma are as inviting as its taste, promising a moment of pure, fruity bliss. Quick to make and impossible to resist, this recipe is your ticket to a little slice of paradise in a glass.
Fresh & Flavorful Ingredients
- For the strawberry puree:
- 10 ounces frozen strawberries, thawed (enough for 4 margaritas)
- For each margarita:
- Sea salt for the glass rim (optional)
- Handfuls of ice
- 2 ounces silver tequila
- 1 ounce orange liqueur (we recommend Cointreau, but Triple Sec works too)
- 1 ounce fresh lime juice, plus wedges for the glass and garnish
- ½ ounce Simple Syrup with basil (or regular simple syrup if preferred)
- 2 ounces strawberry puree
- Fresh strawberries and basil leaves, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the strawberry puree: Puree the thawed strawberries in a blender until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds and foam. Set aside.
- Prepare the glass (optional): Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glass. Dip the rim into a small plate of sea salt to coat it evenly. Fill the glass with ice.
- Mix the margarita: In a cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, simple syrup, and 2 ounces of strawberry puree. Add a handful of ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, or until well-chilled.
- Strain and serve: Strain the mixture into your prepared glass over the ice. Garnish with a lime wedge, fresh strawberries, and a few basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
- Enjoy immediately: Sip and savor your refreshing Strawberry Margarita!
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
Pair your Strawberry Margarita with light, fresh dishes like ceviche, grilled shrimp tacos, or a zesty mango salad. For a sweet treat, serve it alongside a slice of key lime pie or a bowl of fresh berries. Pro tip: Keep the vibe tropical with a side of coconut shrimp or pineapple salsa!
Mix It Up: Recipe Variations
Swap the strawberries for raspberries or mango for a fruity twist. For a spicy kick, add a slice of jalapeño to the shaker. Prefer it frozen? Blend all ingredients with ice for a slushy version. Experiment with different herbs like mint or thyme for unique garnishes.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Bartenders
Prep the strawberry puree in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Use pre-made simple syrup or make a large batch to save time. Quick hack: Freeze lime juice in ice cube trays for easy, pre-measured portions.
Essential Equipment for Margarita Mastery
A high-speed blender ensures a smooth strawberry puree, while a cocktail shaker with a built-in strainer makes mixing a breeze. Don’t forget a citrus juicer for fresh lime juice and a small plate for salting the rim. These tools will elevate your margarita game!
Common Questions Answered
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen? Absolutely! Just add a splash of water to help them blend. What if I don’t have orange liqueur? Substitute with a splash of orange juice or triple sec. For a non-alcoholic version, skip the tequila and liqueur and add a splash of sparkling water.
Strawberry Margarita
Ingredients
For the strawberry puree:
- 10 ounces frozen strawberries, thawed (amount for 4 margaritas)
For each margarita:
- Sea salt for the glass rim, optional
- Handfuls of ice
- 2 ounces silver tequila
- 1 ounce orange liqueur, we like Cointreau
- 1 ounce fresh lime juice, plus wedges for the glass and for garnish
- ½ ounce Simple Syrup with basil
- 2 ounces strawberry puree
- Fresh strawberries and fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Make the strawberry puree: Puree the strawberries in a blender. Strain to remove the seeds and any foam.
- Make the margarita: Optional step: Salt the rim of a glass by rubbing a lime wedge around the edge and dipping the glass into a small plate of salt. Fill the glass with ice.
- Place the tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, simple syrup, and 2 ounces of the strawberry puree in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake and strain into the glass with the salted rim. Garnish with a lime wedge, fresh strawberries, and basil.