Watermelon Margaritas

"This is the non-frozen version of my watermelon margaritas. These are so amazing and refreshing on hot summer days. To make a virgin version, omit the tequila and use a lemon-lime soda."

Ingredients Edit and Save

Original recipe makes 4 servingsChange Servings

• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 3 strips orange zest
• 2 cups cubed seeded watermelon
• 3/4 cup white tequila

• 1/4 cup lime juice
• salt or sugar for rimming glasses (optional)
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 2 cups crushed ice, or as needed

• Directions

  1. Bring 1/2 cup sugar, water, and orange zest in a small saucepan to boil, stirring constantly. Simmer until sugar is dissolved, about 3 minutes. Remove simple syrup from heat and allow to cool completely.
  2. Place watermelon in a blender or food processor. Pulse until pureed.
  3. Stir watermelon puree into a large pitcher with simple syrup, tequila, and lime juice.
  4. Place a small amount of salt or sugar into a saucer. Rub edge of margarita glasses with a lime wedge to moisten. Lightly dip the rim of the glass into the saucer to rim the glass; tap off excess salt or sugar.
  5. Fill rimmed glasses with crushed ice; pour margarita mixture into glasses and garnish with lime wedges to serve.