A Blue Margarita is like summer in a glass-bright, zesty, and just the right amount of fun. This colorful twist on the classic Margarita gets its signature hue from blue curaƧao, a citrusy liqueur that adds both flavor and flair. It’s the kind of cocktail that turns heads at a party and cools you down on a warm evening.
Blue Margarita
I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I picked up along the way: always use freshly squeezed lime juice-it really makes the flavors pop.
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glass: Margarita glass or rocks glass
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) silver or blanco tequila
– 1 oz (30 ml) blue curaƧao
– 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lime juice
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (or agave syrup for a more natural sweetness)
– Ice cubes
– Salt, for rimming the glass
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Method
- Prep your glass: Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass, then dip it into a plate of salt. Set aside.
- Shake it up: Fill a cocktail shaker (or a mason jar with a lid) with ice. Add tequila, blue curaƧao, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well: Give it a good shake-about 15 seconds-until the outside of the shaker feels frosty.
- Pour and serve: Fill your salted glass with fresh ice. Strain the mixture into the glass.
- Garnish: Add a lime wheel on the rim or float it on top for a festive finish.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh lime juice-bottled just doesn’t taste the same.
– Chill your glass ahead of time so your drink stays nice and cold.
– If the drink’s too sweet for your taste, cut back a bit on the simple syrup or opt for agave.
– To get the salt to stick well, make sure to really moisten the rim with lime juice-not just water.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the tequila, blue curaƧao, lime juice, and syrup up to 1 day ahead. Just keep it sealed in the fridge. Don’t add ice or shake it until you’re ready to serve-this keeps the flavors fresh and prevents dilution.
Ingredient Swaps
– No blue curaƧao? Try orange liqueur like triple sec or Cointreau-it’ll still be tasty, just not blue.
– No simple syrup? Dissolve 1 part sugar into 1 part warm water, or use honey or agave.
– Want a lower-sugar version? Skip the syrup altogether or use just a splash.
How to Store
Leftover mix (without ice) can be stored in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 days. Shake again before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with:
Grilled Shrimp or Fish Tacos
The smoky, savory flavors balance the drink’s citrusy sweetness.
Spicy Snacks
Think jalapeƱo poppers, spicy salsa, or chili-lime wings-the cool, sweet Margarita keeps the heat in check.
Fresh Fruit Salsas
A mango or pineapple salsa adds a bright, tropical vibe that plays well with the drink’s fruity notes.
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-work cocktails-this one’s always on my list when friends come over for tacos or we’re just catching up on the patio.
Variations to Try
Frozen Blue Margarita
– Add all ingredients to a blender with 1 cup of crushed ice.
– Blend until smooth and pour into a chilled glass.
– Great for hot days!
Spicy Blue Margarita
– Muddle a few slices of fresh jalapeƱo in the shaker before adding the rest of the ingredients.
– Adds a gentle kick that’s not overpowering.
Blue Coconut Margarita
– Use coconut tequila instead of regular tequila.
– Rim the glass with shredded coconut for a fun tropical twist.
Virgin Blue Margarita (Non-Alcoholic)
– Mix 2 oz (60 ml) blue curaƧao syrup (non-alcoholic) with 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lime juice and a splash of soda water.
– Serve over ice and garnish with lime.
Q&A
Why is it blue?
Blue curaƧao gives it that bold color. It’s a citrus liqueur made from dried peels of the Laraha fruit, which grows on the island of CuraƧao.
Can I make it without alcohol?
Yes! Use blue curaƧao syrup and skip the tequila. Add soda water for fizz and a splash of lime juice for brightness.
Is it very sweet?
It’s sweeter than a classic Margarita. You can easily adjust the sweetness by reducing the syrup or blue curaƧao.
What if I don’t have a cocktail shaker?
No problem. Use a mason jar or any sealed container-just make sure it won’t leak when you shake it.
How do I get the salt to stick to the rim?
Rub a lime wedge around the rim before dipping it in salt. It helps the salt cling better than water does.
What’s the best tequila to use?
Go with a quality silver or blanco tequila. It’s smoother and lets the citrus flavors shine.
A Blue Margarita is a fun, festive drink that’s easy to love and even easier to make. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or just treating yourself, this bright cocktail brings the tropical vibes every time. Try one of the variations or pair it with your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes for a full-on flavor celebration.
