Pin it
This strawberry lemonade margarita transforms ordinary gatherings into vibrant celebrations with minimal effort. The bright fusion of sweet strawberries and tangy lemonade creates a refreshing base for the perfect summer cocktail that never fails to impress guests.
I first made these for a spontaneous backyard barbecue, and they disappeared so quickly I had to make a second batch. Now they're requested at every summer gathering I host.
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries: Provide natural sweetness and gorgeous color. Look for bright red berries with no white shoulders for best flavor
- Frozen lemonade concentrate: Delivers consistent tangy flavor without squeezing lemons
- Water: Helps balance the sweetness and create the perfect consistency
- Tequila: Brings the classic margarita kick. Use silver/blanco for cleaner flavor
- Triple Sec: Adds that essential orange undertone that elevates any margarita
- Fresh lime juice: Brightens everything with essential citrus acidity
- Coarse salt: For rimming creates that classic margarita experience
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Blend The Base:
- Add hulled strawberries, thawed lemonade concentrate, and water to a large blender. Blend on high speed until completely smooth with no visible strawberry chunks remaining, about 30-45 seconds.
- Mix The Cocktail:
- Transfer the strawberry lemonade mixture to a large pitcher. Pour in tequila starting with 1 cup, then add Triple Sec beginning with 1/2 cup. Squeeze the juice from one lime directly into the pitcher. Stir thoroughly with a long-handled spoon to combine all ingredients completely.
- Prepare The Glasses:
- Take a lime wedge and run it around the rim of each margarita glass to moisten. Dip the moistened rim into a shallow dish of coarse salt, rotating gently to coat evenly. Fill glasses with ice cubes.
- Serve The Margaritas:
- Pour the strawberry lemonade margarita mixture over ice in the prepared glasses. Garnish with additional lime wedges or strawberry slices if desired.
Pin it
The frozen lemonade concentrate is my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered it after trying to juice dozens of lemons for a large party and realizing there had to be an easier way. The concentrate delivers consistent flavor without the hand cramps!
Freezer-Friendly Option
This margarita mixture freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Simply prepare the recipe without adding ice, transfer to freezer-safe containers leaving about an inch of headspace, and freeze. When ready to serve, allow to thaw until slushy, stir well, and pour into prepared glasses. The alcohol prevents it from freezing solid, creating a perfect slushy consistency.
Variations To Try
Create a strawberry lemonade margarita mocktail by replacing the alcohol with lemon-lime soda and a splash of orange juice. Kids and non-drinkers will appreciate this inclusive option that still delivers great flavor. You can also experiment with different berries like raspberries or blackberries for unique color and flavor variations that follow the same easy preparation method.
Presentation Ideas
Elevate your margarita presentation by threading fresh strawberries and lime wedges onto cocktail picks for an impressive garnish. For special occasions, dip half the glass rim in sugar and half in salt for a sweet-salty combination. Serve in a pitcher surrounded by fresh strawberries and lime slices for a stunning centerpiece that encourages guests to help themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen strawberries work perfectly for this drink. You can choose to defrost them or use them straight from the freezer.
- → How do I adjust the alcohol content?
You can use 1-1.5 cups of tequila and 0.5-0.75 cups of triple sec depending on how strong you prefer your drink.
- → Do I need to thaw the frozen lemonade?
Yes, thaw the frozen lemonade beforehand to ensure it mixes smoothly with other ingredients.
- → What can I use if I don’t have Triple Sec?
You can substitute Triple Sec with other orange liqueurs like Cointreau or Grand Marnier for a similar flavor.
- → How do I salt the glass rims?
Rub a lime wedge around the rim of each glass, then dip the rim into coarse salt for a perfect finish.