Get ready to fiesta! Cinco de Mayo is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a refreshing drink? Whether you’re looking for something spicy, sweet, or in between, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering recipes that are sure to quench your thirst and satisfy your taste buds.
From classic margaritas to innovative twists on traditional Mexican drinks, our list has something for everyone. Want a little heat? Try our Spicy Jalapeño Pineapple Margarita or Tamarind Michelada with Tajín Rim. Prefer something sweet? Our Watermelon Agua Fresca with Chili Powder and Mango Hibiscus Tequila Smash are sure to please.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these delicious drinks and share the recipes, along with some fun facts and cultural tidbits to enhance your Cinco de Mayo celebration. So grab a glass, sit back, and get ready to toast to the holiday!
Classic Margarita with Fresh Lime Juice
A timeless cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion, this classic margarita recipe uses fresh lime juice to add a burst of citrus flavor. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be sipping on a deliciously refreshing drink in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces tequila
– 1 ounce triple sec or other orange-flavored liqueur
– 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt for rimming glass (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt, if desired.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add tequila, triple sec, and lime juice to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
6. Garnish with a lime wedge or wheel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe, after all.
Spicy Jalapeño Pineapple Margarita
Add a spicy twist to your margarita game with this unique and flavorful recipe, combining the sweetness of pineapple with the heat of jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces tequila
– 1 ounce fresh lime juice
– 1/2 ounce triple sec
– 1/2 ounce pineapple juice
– 1/4 ounce simple syrup
– 1-2 slices of jalapeño pepper, depending on desired level of heat
– Salt for rimming glass (optional)
– Ice
– Pineapple wedges and lime wheels for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt, if desired.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, triple sec, pineapple juice, and simple syrup.
3. Add 1-2 slices of jalapeño pepper to the shaker and muddle gently to release heat and flavor.
4. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
6. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Watermelon Agua Fresca with Chili Powder
Beat the heat with this unique and refreshing twist on traditional agua fresca. This sweet and spicy drink is perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups watermelon chunks (rind removed)
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the watermelon chunks until smooth.
2. In a large pitcher, combine the watermelon puree, water, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Add the chili powder and stir well to combine.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve the agua fresca over ice in glasses and garnish with a lime wedge.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Horchata with Cinnamon and Vanilla
Horchata is a traditional Mexican drink made from rice, cinnamon, and vanilla. This recipe adds an extra layer of flavor and creaminess by incorporating milk and ice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups long-grain rice
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the rice again, then blend with 4 cups of water until smooth.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl.
4. Add sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract to the mixture; stir until dissolved.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
6. Just before serving, stir in the milk and add ice cubes as needed.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: Approximately 1 quart (4 cups) of Horchata
Mango Hibiscus Tequila Smash
Experience the tropical fusion of sweet mango, tangy hibiscus, and smooth tequila with this refreshing summer cocktail. Perfect for warm evenings or outdoor gatherings!
Ingredients:
– 2 oz tequila
– 1 oz mango puree
– 1 oz hibiscus syrup (see note)
– 2 oz lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with salt.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add tequila, mango puree, hibiscus syrup, lime juice, and simple syrup.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
6. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve immediately.
Mexican Mule with Ginger Beer and Lime
Elevate the classic Moscow Mule with a spicy kick from ginger beer and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. This refreshing twist is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a revitalizing drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz tequila
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Juice of 1 lime (about 1 tablespoon)
– Slice of lime, for garnish
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add the tequila and ginger beer.
3. Squeeze in the lime juice and stir gently to combine.
4. Garnish with a slice of lime and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a drink recipe!
Tamarind Michelada with Tajín Rim
This recipe combines the tanginess of tamarind with the spiciness of Tajín for a unique and flavorful twist on a traditional Michelada. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a refreshing drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– 2 cups beer (any type)
– 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 1 tablespoon agave nectar
– Salt, to taste
– Tajín seasoning blend, for rimming the glass
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with Tajín by dipping the rim into water and then gently pressing the Tajín onto the rim.
2. In a large pitcher or jug, mix together beer, tamarind paste, and agave nectar until well combined.
3. Squeeze in lime juice to taste.
4. Add ice cubes to the pitcher and stir well.
5. Pour the Tamarind Michelada into the prepared glass with Tajín rim.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Prickly Pear Paloma with Grapefruit Soda
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic Paloma. The sweetness of prickly pear puree pairs perfectly with the tanginess of grapefruit soda, making it a perfect drink for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz tequila
– 1 oz prickly pear puree
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 3 oz grapefruit soda
– Salt, for rimming glass (optional)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with salt, if desired.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add tequila, prickly pear puree, and lime juice.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Top with grapefruit soda and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Cucumber Mint Limeade with Tequila
Beat the heat with this revitalizing cocktail that combines the cooling flavors of cucumber, mint, and lime with a splash of tequila. This refreshing drink is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening on the patio.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup fresh lime juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 oz tequila (Silver or Blanco)
– Ice cubes
– Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine water, lime juice, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the chopped mint leaves to the pitcher and muddle gently with a spoon to release the oils and flavor.
3. Add the sliced cucumber to the pitcher and stir well.
4. Add tequila and stir to combine.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve over ice in tall glasses. Garnish with additional mint leaves and a lime wedge, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes chilling time)
Strawberry Basil Margarita
Elevate your margarita game with this refreshing twist that combines the sweetness of strawberries and the brightness of basil. This unique cocktail is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a light dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 ounces tequila
– 1 ounce lime juice
– 1/2 ounce agave nectar
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Ice
– Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt.
2. In a blender or food processor, puree strawberries and basil until smooth.
3. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, and agave nectar. Add strawberry-basil mixture and ice. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain into prepared glass. Garnish with a lime wedge and additional basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Serve immediately and enjoy.
Avocado Coconut Lime Smoothie Cocktail
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing blend of creamy avocado, zesty lime, and rich coconut. Perfect for a warm summer evening or a post-workout pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Lime wedges and toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the avocado and remove the pit.
2. In a blender, combine the avocado, coconut cream, lime juice, honey, and salt.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness to your liking.
5. Pour into glasses filled with ice (if desired).
6. Garnish with a lime wedge and toasted coconut flakes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This smoothie cocktail is ready in just 2-3 minutes of blending time.
Mexican Hot Chocolate with Cinnamon Whiskey
This decadent drink combines the warmth of traditional Mexican hot chocolate with the smooth, spicy flavor of cinnamon whiskey. Perfect for cold winter nights or as a unique pick-me-up any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons Dutch-process cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground anise
– 1/2 teaspoon instant coffee powder (optional)
– 2 ounces cinnamon whiskey (such as St. Elizabeth’s Allspice Dram)
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat.
2. Add the cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, and anise to the milk. Whisk until smooth.
3. If desired, add the instant coffee powder and whisk until dissolved.
4. Pour in the cinnamon whiskey and stir until well combined.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pineapple Coconut Margarita with Chili Salt
Elevate your cocktail game with this tropical twist on the classic margarita, featuring sweet pineapple and creamy coconut flavors paired with a spicy kick from chili salt.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces tequila
– 1 ounce coconut cream
– 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water)
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Chili salt, for garnish
– Fresh pineapple wedges, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, coconut cream, lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Add pineapple juice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Sprinkle chili salt around the rim of the glass.
6. Garnish with fresh pineapple wedges.
Cooking Time: None
Blood Orange Mezcal Sour
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique and refreshing twist on the classic Whiskey Sour, featuring the bold flavors of blood orange and mezcal.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz mezcal
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed blood orange juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Dash of Angostura bitters
– Ice
– Blood orange slice or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add mezcal, blood orange juice, simple syrup, and lemon juice.
3. Add a dash of Angostura bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a blood orange slice or wheel.
Cooking Time: None (cocktail preparation only)
Guava Mint Mojito with Rum
Escape to a tropical paradise with this unique mojito recipe that combines the sweetness of guava with the coolingness of mint and the richness of rum.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz white rum
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 2 cups fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup guava puree or jam
– Club soda
– Ice
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release the oils and flavor.
2. Add lime juice, simple syrup, and rum to the shaker. Fill with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice. Top with club soda.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a slice of lime.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready in just minutes.
Tequila Sunrise with Grenadine and Orange Juice
This classic cocktail is a refreshing twist on the traditional sunrise, featuring tequila, grenadine, and orange juice. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a fruity and revitalizing drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz tequila
– 1 oz grenadine
– 4 oz orange juice
– Splash of club soda
– Orange slice or wedge, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the tequila and grenadine.
3. Top with orange juice and stir gently to combine.
4. Add a splash of club soda.
5. Garnish with an orange slice or wedge.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Champurrado (Mexican Chocolate Atole)
Champurrado is a traditional Mexican drink made with chocolate, masa harina (corn flour), and milk. This rich and creamy beverage is perfect for warming up on a chilly day or as a comforting treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup masa harina
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/2 cup milk (whole, low-fat or nonfat)
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), grated or chopped
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water and masa harina. Whisk until smooth, then bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add cocoa powder, sugar, and milk. Whisk until well combined.
4. Remove from heat and stir in grated chocolate until melted.
5. Add vanilla extract, if using. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Grapefruit Mezcal Cocktail
Elevate your cocktail game with this bold and refreshing Spicy Grapefruit Mezcal Cocktail. The combination of smoky mezcal, tangy grapefruit juice, and spicy jalapeño peppers will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz mezcal
– 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz agave syrup
– 1/4 oz lime juice
– 1/4 oz jalapeño simple syrup (see note)
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with salt.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add mezcal, grapefruit juice, agave syrup, lime juice, and jalapeño simple syrup to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None (this is a cocktail, not a dish!)
Cantaloupe Lime Agua Fresca with Tequila
This refreshing summer drink combines the sweetness of cantaloupe with the tanginess of lime and a hint of tequila. Perfect for hot days or as a unique cocktail for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed cantaloupe
– 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup agave nectar
– 1 1/2 ounces tequila (silver or reposado)
– 3 cups water
– Ice cubes
– Lime wedges and mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, puree cantaloupe until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture into a large pitcher to remove any pulp.
3. Add lime juice, agave nectar, and tequila. Stir until well combined.
4. Add water and stir gently.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
6. Serve over ice and garnish with lime wedges and mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Coconut Horchata Rum Punch
This refreshing punch combines the creamy richness of coconut horchata with the smoothness of rum, perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups coconut horchata
– 1 cup dark rum
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Slice of fresh pineapple and sprig of mint for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine coconut horchata, dark rum, pineapple juice, and orange juice.
2. Stir in simple syrup until dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve the punch over ice in glasses or a large bowl.
5. Garnish with a slice of fresh pineapple and a sprig of mint.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled beverage.
Summary
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with these refreshing drink recipes! From spicy and sweet to classic and traditional, this collection has something for everyone. Try a Classic Margarita with Fresh Lime Juice or spice things up with the Spicy Jalapeño Pineapple Margarita. Other highlights include Watermelon Agua Fresca with Chili Powder, Mango Hibiscus Tequila Smash, and Mexican Mule with Ginger Beer and Lime. With 20 unique recipes to choose from, you’re sure to find a new favorite drink to toast the holiday.
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