Here’s a cocktail that’s a study in contrasts: try the Cucumber Jalapeno Margarita! This drink effortlessly pairs crisp and cool with spicy hot. And this marriage of flavors could not be more delicious. Each sip is refreshing and spa-like on the front end, but the finish gives a kick of heat! This one is a spin on our tasty Cucumber Margarita, and we must say: adding jalapeno makes it infinitely tastier.
What’s in a cucumber jalapeno margarita?
Of course, the two main ingredients in this recipe are in the title itself! These fresh vegetables are the perfect pairing with one of the most classic cocktails of all time. Invented in Mexico in the 1930’s, the margarita has enjoyed massive worldwide popularity since it was invented. The classic definition of this famous cocktail is outlined by the International Bartender Association’s IBA official cocktails: just tequila, triple sec and lime juice. For this spin, you’ll need:
Cucumber slicesjalapeño pepper slicesTequilaTriple Sec (or Cointreau)Lime juice
How spicy is this margarita? Jalapeño peppers vary
If you’re used to using jalapeno peppers, you’ll know that peppers can vary in heat level! So this drink varies depending on your pepper and how many slices of peppers you use. Here are some guidelines to use as a rule of thumb:
3 thin jalapeno pepper slices make a medium spicy drink. Add more for a very spicy drink, or use less for mild heat.Remove the seeds for a milder drink. This takes down the heat even more. Some peppers have areas with less seeds. If you do want the seeds, cut more slices and use slices that have more seeds.
Tips for how to muddle
The way to get the cucumber and jalapeno flavor in this margarita? Muddling! Muddling means mashing fruits, vegetables, or herbs before using them in a drink. It releases the juices (or essential oils for herbs) so you can taste them in the drink. Here are a few tips on how to muddle:
Do it right in the cocktail shaker. Place the cucumber and jalapeno slices in the bottom of a cocktail shaker. If you don’t have one, you can use a large metal cup or bowl.Use a wooden cocktail muddler or unfinished wooden spoon. Then gently mash the veggies a few times to release the juices right into the drink. Leave them inside the cocktail shaker while you shake the drink.
How to make a cucumber jalapeno margarita
Once you’ve got your fresh ingredients, grab your tequila, triple sec, and let’s get mixing! If you need more details on the best alcohol to buy, see Best Tequila for Margaritas and Best Triple Sec for Margaritas. Then, do the steps below!
When to serve a cucumber jalapeno margarita
This spicy cucumber jalapeno margarita is festive and unique! It works as a:
Happy hour drinkDinner party drinkLate night drinks drinkTaco night or Cinco de Mayo drinkGuys or girls night drinkCocktail hour drink
More margarita recipes
There are so many different variations to try! Try each one of our margarita recipes: No reviews
Classic: Simple Margarita, Patron Margarita, Casamigos Margarita, Texas Margarita or Cointreau MargaritaLight: Skinny Margarita, Virgin Margarita, Vodka Margarita or Frozen MargaritaBoozy: Mezcal, Hennessy, Grand Marnier or Cadillac MargaritaFruity: Mango, Peach, Blueberry, Raspberry, Blackberry, Watermelon, Pineapple, Blood Orange, Orange, or Grapefruit MargaritaSpicy: Jalapeno Margarita or Pineapple Jalapeno MargaritaUnique: Italian, Coconut, Blue, Prickly Pear, Hibiscus, or Beer Margarita