Let’s face it – Cinco de Mayo is the best eating and drinking holiday there is. For me, tacos are a way of life since we live in a Seattle neighborhood with a large Mexican population and three taco trucks within walking distance (not even mentioning the restaurants!). I consider myself lucky.
When it comes to margaritas, however, I’ve never been a huge fan until now! Our recipe with a mix of smoky Mezcal, cilantro and lime is so fresh and drinkable it will no doubt enter your summer cocktail rotation!
Ingredients // serves 2
- 3 oz Mezcal
- 1/2 cup fresh squeezed lime juice
- 1/2 a jalapeno pepper, sliced
- cilantro for muddling and garnish
- rogue citrus cucumber soda, or a citrus mixer of your choosing
- orange bitters (optional)
Start by dicing up half a jalapeno, juicing your limes (yes, you can also buy lime juice, but the flavor is way better this way!), and tearing off about 3 stems of cilantro leaves. Place in a jar and muddle all together. *Note! If you would like to include honey or simple syrup, do so here. Our soda mixer had sugar in it so we did not add any sweetener.
Once the flavors are all mixed together, put in a shaker with the Mezcal and ice – shake and strain into a glass. Top off with orange bitters and your lime soda, then garnish with a few fresh slices of jalapeno, a lime wedge and a sprig of cilantro!
YUM! These margaritas will be a hit well past Cinco de Mayo! I’d experiment with different fresh flavors, like adding orange or cucumber to this mix as well to really make it your own. Enjoy!
photography by meghan klein for coco kelley
