Looking for a refreshing drink that adds a kick to your usual cocktail? The Spicy Cucumber Jalapeno Margarita is the perfect blend of flavors that brings a zesty twist to a classic favorite. With the coolness of cucumber, the heat from jalapeno, and the tangy notes of lime, this margarita is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or laid-back evening at home.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for those hot summer days or lively parties. The combination of spicy jalapeno and crisp cucumber makes for a delightful contrast, ensuring that every sip brings you joy. Plus, making your own margaritas means you can control the sweetness and spice levels. Impress your friends and family with this unique cocktail that is as colorful as it is delicious!
How to Make Spicy Cucumber Jalapeno Margarita
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (juice from 3 limes)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (whole, not chopped)
- 1 jalapeno pepper (sliced in half lengthwise *SEE NOTE)
- 2 large cucumbers (sliced)
- 1 cup Exotico Reposado tequila
- 1/2 cup triple sec
- Cilantro and salt (pulsed together in a food processor to get green salt)
- Cucumber slices
Directions:
- Heat a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Add water, lime juice, sugar, cilantro, and jalapeno. Bring to a boil and stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cook for 2 more minutes. Remove from heat, transfer to a small bowl, and discard the jalapeno and cilantro. Allow it to chill in the fridge.
- While the jalapeno simple syrup is chilling, puree the cucumbers in a high-powered blender.
- Strain the cucumber puree through a fine mesh metal strainer, pressing down to extract all the liquid. Refrigerate until chilled.
- When ready to serve, mix the jalapeno simple syrup and cucumber juice in a pitcher. Add tequila and triple sec, and stir to combine.
- Pour over ice into cilantro salt-rimmed glasses and garnish with cucumber slices. Enjoy!
How to Serve Spicy Cucumber Jalapeno Margarita
The Spicy Cucumber Jalapeno Margarita is best served over ice in a glass with a rim coated in cilantro salt. Add fresh cucumber slices on top for a decorative and refreshing touch. This vibrant cocktail can be served during happy hour, at parties, or whenever you need a cool drink.
How to Store Spicy Cucumber Jalapeno Margarita
If you have any leftovers, you can store the margarita mixture in the fridge without the ice. It will stay fresh for up to two days. Just remember to add ice before serving each time. The jalapeno simple syrup can also be stored separately for a few days in the fridge for future use.
Tips to Make Spicy Cucumber Jalapeno Margarita
- For a milder drink, use less jalapeno or omit the seeds when cutting it.
- If you want to enhance the flavor, try grilling the cucumbers before pureeing them for a smoky touch.
- Experiment with different herbs like mint or basil for a twist on the recipe.
Variation
You can give this margarita a fruitier flair by adding fresh watermelon or pineapple to the blend. Simply puree the fruit along with the cucumbers for a refreshing summer twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of tequila?
Yes, you can use different types of tequila, but a reposado tequila adds a richer flavor to the cocktail.
2. How do I make it non-alcoholic?
You can substitute the tequila and triple sec with soda water or a non-alcoholic spirit. Just maintain the other ingredients for the best flavor.
3. How can I adjust the sweetness?
Feel free to add more or less sugar in the simple syrup according to your personal taste. You can also use honey or agave syrup as an alternative sweetener.
Spicy Cucumber Jalapeno Margarita
Ingredients
Jalapeno Simple Syrup
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice (juice from 3 limes)
- ½ cup sugar
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro (whole, not chopped)
- 1 whole jalapeno pepper (sliced in half lengthwise) *SEE NOTE
Cocktail Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers (sliced)
- 1 cup Exotico Reposado tequila
- ½ cup triple sec
- Cilantro and salt (pulsed together in a food processor to get green salt)
- Cucumber slices for garnish
Instructions
Prepare Jalapeno Simple Syrup
- Heat a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Add water, lime juice, sugar, cilantro, and jalapeno.
- Bring to a boil and stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cook for 2 more minutes. Remove from heat, transfer to a small bowl, and discard the jalapeno and cilantro.
- Allow it to chill in the fridge.
Prepare Cucumber Juice
- While the jalapeno simple syrup is chilling, puree the cucumbers in a high-powered blender.
- Strain the cucumber puree through a fine mesh metal strainer, pressing down to extract all the liquid. Refrigerate until chilled.
Mixing the Margarita
- When ready to serve, mix the jalapeno simple syrup and cucumber juice in a pitcher.
- Add tequila and triple sec, and stir to combine.
- Pour over ice into cilantro salt-rimmed glasses and garnish with cucumber slices.
- Enjoy!
