Fresh Jalapeño Cocktail

Featured in Delicious Refreshing Drinks.

A quick cocktail mixing fresh jalapeños with tequila, lime juice and triple sec. Rimmed with chamoy and tajín for extra kick.

Clare Greco
Updated on Mon, 20 Jan 2025 16:13:04 GMT
A close-up of a refreshing cocktail garnished with a lime slice and rimmed with red salt, surrounded by lime halves and ice. Pin it
A close-up of a refreshing cocktail garnished with a lime slice and rimmed with red salt, surrounded by lime halves and ice. | recipesbyclare.com

My Spicy Margarita recipe evolved from countless tasting sessions to find that perfect balance of heat and citrus. The combination of fresh jalapeños and smooth tequila creates something truly magical. Every time I make these the aroma of lime and spice brings everyone to the kitchen asking when their drink will be ready.

Why You'll Love It

This isn't your average margarita. That kick from fresh jalapeños paired with tangy lime juice and smooth tequila creates the perfect balance. I love how easy it is to adjust the heat level making it perfect for both spice lovers and those who prefer just a hint of warmth.

What You'll Need

  • Jalapeño: 1, sliced into rings, for a spicy kick. Remove seeds for less heat.
  • Lime Juice: 2 ounces, freshly squeezed, for tangy acidity.
  • Tequila: 2 ounces blanco, reposado, or añejo for your preferred flavor profile.
  • Triple Sec: 1 ounce, or substitute with Cointreau or Grand Marnier.
  • Sweetener: 1/2 ounce agave nectar, honey, or simple syrup, to balance the spice and tartness.
  • Rim Garnish: Tajín and chamoy for a zesty and spicy rim.
  • Garnish: Lime wheels and jalapeño slices, for presentation.
A close-up of a cocktail garnished with lime, jalapeño slices, and a rim of chili powder, surrounded by lime halves on a marble surface. Pin it
A close-up of a cocktail garnished with lime, jalapeño slices, and a rim of chili powder, surrounded by lime halves on a marble surface. | recipesbyclare.com

Let's Mix It Up

Start with the Glass
Give your glass that perfect spicy rim with Tajín it adds such amazing flavor.
Add Some Heat
Gently muddle those jalapeños to release their oils and spice.
Shake It Up
Combine everything with ice and give it a good shake until it's ice cold.
Make It Pretty
Strain into your glass and garnish with fresh lime and jalapeño.

Make It Perfect

Always strain through a fine mesh to keep those pepper bits out. Fresh lime juice makes all the difference don't skip it. And remember you can always add more spice but you can't take it away so start gentle with those jalapeños.

A close-up of a refreshing cocktail with a salted rim, garnished with lime and jalapeño slices, served over ice. Pin it
A close-up of a refreshing cocktail with a salted rim, garnished with lime and jalapeño slices, served over ice. | recipesbyclare.com

Mix It Up

Sometimes I'll use mezcal instead of tequila for a smoky twist. Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or trying different peppers keeps things interesting. My friends love when I add a splash of pineapple juice for a tropical touch.

Perfect Pairings

These margaritas were made for spicy tacos or fresh guacamole. The citrus and heat complement Mexican food perfectly. I love setting up a DIY margarita bar when I'm hosting letting everyone customize their spice level.

A hand is pouring a clear liquid into a frosted glass with a red rim and a lime garnish, alongside halved limes on a marble countertop. Pin it
A hand is pouring a clear liquid into a frosted glass with a red rim and a lime garnish, alongside halved limes on a marble countertop. | recipesbyclare.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I control the spice level?

Adjust heat by removing seeds from jalapeños and varying number of slices used. Start with less and add more to taste.

→ What if I don't have a cocktail shaker?

Use a mason jar or stir ingredients in glass. The key is mixing ingredients well with ice.

→ Can I make simple syrup substitute?

Mix equal parts sugar and water over medium heat until dissolved. Cool before using. 1/2 cup each makes enough for 8 drinks.

→ What's the best tequila to use?

Blanco (silver) tequila works best for its clean taste and ability to blend with other flavors.

→ What makes this Mexican style?

The chamoy and tajín rim adds authentic Mexican flavor and spice to complement the jalapeño heat.

Conclusion

A zesty cocktail featuring fresh jalapeños, creating a spicy twist on the classic margarita with balanced heat and citrus flavors.

Spicy Margarita

A fresh take on the classic margarita with muddled jalapeños for heat, balanced with lime juice and triple sec.

Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
5 Minutes

Category: Refreshing Drinks

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Mexican

Yield: 1 Servings (1 drink)

Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

01 2-3 jalapeño slices, seeded.
02 2 limes, juiced (4 tablespoons).
03 2 ounces blanco tequila.
04 ½ ounce triple sec.
05 ½ ounce agave syrup.
06 Tajín for rim.
07 Chamoy for rim.
08 Jalapeño ring for garnish.
09 Lime wheel for garnish.

Instructions

Step 01

Brush glass with chamoy, dip in Tajín.

Step 02

Muddle jalapeño slices in shaker.

Step 03

Add tequila, triple sec, lime juice, syrup and ice. Shake 10-15 seconds.

Step 04

Strain into ice-filled glass. Garnish with lime and jalapeño.

Notes

  1. Can use mason jar if no shaker.
  2. Make simple syrup with equal parts sugar/water.

Tools You'll Need

  • Cocktail shaker.
  • Cocktail glass.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 259
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: 29 g
  • Protein: 1 g