If you love a margarita but want something a little more playful-and with a bit of bubbly flair-the Coronarita is your drink. It’s bright, citrusy, and just boozy enough to feel like a celebration. This has been my go-to cocktail for summer BBQs and beachy weekends, and I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-work drinks that never fails to lift the mood.
Coronarita
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 10 minutes
Serves: 1 generous cocktail
Glass: Margarita glass or pilsner glass
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) tequila (blanco/silver works best)
– 1 oz (30 ml) triple sec (or Cointreau for a smoother finish)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lime juice (about half a lime)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (or agave syrup for a more natural sweetness)
– 1 cold bottle of Corona beer (or any light Mexican-style lager)
– Ice cubes
– Lime wedge, for garnish
– Coarse salt, for rimming the glass
Method
- Salt the rim: Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glass, then dip it into a small plate of coarse salt. Shake off any excess.
- Fill with ice: Add plenty of ice to the glass-this keeps the drink cold and helps slow the beer pour.
- Mix the margarita: In a cocktail shaker, add tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and simple syrup. Fill the shaker halfway with ice and shake for about 15 seconds, until it feels cold to the touch.
- Strain and pour: Strain the margarita mix into your prepared glass over the ice.
- Add the beer: Carefully invert the bottle of Corona into the glass. Tilt it slowly so it doesn’t overflow. The beer will gradually mix with the margarita as you sip.
- Garnish: Add a lime wedge on the rim for a zesty finish.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh lime juice. Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same brightness.
– Chill the beer well before serving. A warm beer can mess with the balance.
– Don’t skip the salt rim. That salty edge adds a great contrast to the sweet and sour flavors.
– Want to make it ahead? Mix the margarita ingredients in a pitcher and store in the fridge. Just add ice and beer when ready to serve.
Ingredient Swaps
– No triple sec? Use orange liqueur like Grand Marnier or even a splash of orange juice.
– Watching sugar? Swap simple syrup with agave nectar or skip it entirely for a more tart version.
– No Corona? Any light lager works, or try a non-alcoholic beer for a lighter version.
How to Serve
Serve immediately after assembling. The visual of the upside-down beer bottle is part of the fun! Great for parties, taco nights, or anytime you want something festive without much fuss.
Storage
Once the beer is added, it’s best to enjoy your Coronarita right away. But you can mix the margarita base (everything except the beer and ice) up to 24 hours in advance and keep it chilled in a sealed container.
Flavor Variations
Blue Coronarita
– Swap triple sec for blue curaçao for a fun tropical look.
– Garnish with an orange slice for a citrusy pop.
Spicy Coronarita
– Muddle a few jalapeño slices with the lime juice before shaking.
– Strain out the seeds for a clean heat that doesn’t overpower.
Frozen Coronarita
– Blend the margarita ingredients with a handful of ice until slushy.
– Pour into a large glass and carefully insert the beer bottle.
Virgin Coronarita
– Mix 1 oz lime juice, 1 oz orange juice, and 1 oz simple syrup with sparkling water.
– Serve over ice with a salted rim and lime wedge.
Perfect Pairings
– Spicy Nachos: The cocktail’s citrus cuts through the cheese and spice like a dream.
– Fish Tacos: Light, flaky fish pairs beautifully with the zesty, bubbly drink.
– Guacamole: Creamy, rich guac + tangy margarita flavors = match made in heaven.
Common Questions
Can I make a pitcher?
Absolutely. Just multiply the margarita ingredients by the number of servings you need. Add beer to each glass when serving.
What’s the best tequila to use?
Go for a blanco or silver tequila. It has a clean, crisp flavor that blends well without overpowering.
Can I use different citrus juices?
Sure! Try orange or grapefruit for a twist, but keep the overall balance of sweet and sour in mind.
How do I keep the beer from pouring too fast?
Tilt the bottle slowly as you insert it. Or use a beer clip if you’ve got one-they help control the flow.
Is it gluten-free?
Not with regular beer, but you can use a gluten-free lager or skip the beer for a gluten-free version.
Final Thoughts
The Coronarita is more than just a drink-it’s a vibe. It’s a little bit beachy, a little bit bold, and a whole lot of fun. Whether you’re serving it up at your next backyard cookout or just kicking back after a long week, it’s sure to put a smile on your face. Don’t be afraid to play with flavors and make it your own. Cheers!
