A Kiwi Margarita is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and refreshing—just what you need on a warm day. Fresh kiwi adds a tropical twist to the classic margarita, blending beautifully with tequila and lime. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a summer gathering, this cocktail is a bright and flavorful crowd-pleaser. I’ve made this drink countless times, and one thing I’ve learned is that fresh lime juice makes all the difference. Let’s get mixing!
Kiwi Margarita
Ingredients
Makes 1 cocktail | Prep time: 5 minutes
You’ll need:
- 1 ripe kiwi, peeled and sliced
- 2 oz (60ml) tequila
- 1 oz (30ml) triple sec (or Cointreau for a smoother taste)
- 1 oz (30ml) fresh lime juice
- Ice, for shaking and serving
- Sugar or salt, for rimming the glass (optional)
- Lime wedge or kiwi slice, for garnish
Substitutions:
- Swap mezcal for tequila if you prefer a smoky twist.
- Use honey or agave syrup instead of sugar if you’d like a natural sweetener.
- Golden kiwis work too, giving a slightly sweeter flavor.
How to Make a Kiwi Margarita
- Muddle the kiwi. In a cocktail shaker, mash the kiwi slices with a muddler or the back of a spoon until they release their juice.
- Add the liquids. Pour in the tequila, triple sec, and fresh lime juice.
- Shake it up. Fill the shaker with ice, seal it, and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
- Prep the glass. If you’d like a rimmed glass, rub a lime wedge around the edge and dip it in sugar or salt.
- Strain and serve. Fill your glass with fresh ice and strain the drink into it. A fine-mesh strainer helps catch the kiwi seeds if you prefer a smoother drink.
- Garnish and enjoy. Add a kiwi slice or lime wheel on the rim, and you’re ready to sip!
Tip: If you love a fruitier margarita, blend the kiwi instead of muddling it for a silkier texture.
Serving Suggestions
Kiwi Margaritas pair wonderfully with:
- Grilled shrimp or fish tacos – The smoky, savory flavors balance the cocktail’s sweetness.
- Spicy salsa and guacamole – The cool, fruity drink helps mellow out the heat.
- Fresh fruit platters – Mango, pineapple, and kiwi complement the tropical vibe.
I’ve found that this margarita is especially refreshing with a little spicy kick—try rimming the glass with Tajín instead of salt for a zesty twist!
Variations to Try
Spicy Kiwi Margarita
- Muddle a slice of jalapeño with the kiwi for a spicy kick.
Frozen Kiwi Margarita
- Blend all the ingredients with a handful of ice instead of shaking.
Kiwi Strawberry Margarita
- Muddle a few fresh strawberries with the kiwi for a fruity mix.
Virgin Kiwi Margarita
- Replace tequila and triple sec with sparkling water or lemon-lime soda for a refreshing mocktail.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Make ahead: You can mix the kiwi, lime juice, and triple sec a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add tequila and shake when ready to serve.
- Leftovers? Store any extra margarita mix (without ice) in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake well before serving.
Common Questions
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is best, but bottled works in a pinch—just expect a slight difference in taste.
Do I need a cocktail shaker?
Nope! You can stir everything in a glass with ice, but shaking makes it colder and blends the flavors better.
How do I make my margarita sweeter?
Add a touch of simple syrup, honey, or agave to taste.
What type of tequila is best?
A good-quality blanco (silver) tequila works best for a clean, smooth flavor.
A Kiwi Margarita is a fun, refreshing twist on a classic, and it’s easy to tweak to your taste. Whether you like it spicy, frozen, or extra tangy, this drink is a guaranteed hit. Cheers! 🍹
