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Grapefruit Margarita

Grapefruit Margarita

This vibrant Grapefruit Margarita combines fresh grapefruit juice, lime, quality tequila, and orange liqueur for a perfectly balanced cocktail. Simultaneously tangy and sweet with a salt rim, it’s a refreshing twist on the classic that’s perfect for any occasion.
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Total Time 5 minutes
Course Beverage, Cocktail
Cuisine Mexican-inspired
Servings 2 cocktails

Ingredients
  

  • 4 oz fresh grapefruit juice about 1 medium grapefruit
  • 2 oz silver/blanco tequila 100% agave recommended
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice about 1 lime
  • 1 oz orange liqueur Cointreau or Triple Sec
  • 1 tbsp agave nectar or simple syrup to taste
  • Coarse salt for rimming glasses
  • Grapefruit wedges for garnish
  • Ice cubes

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the glasses by running a grapefruit or lime wedge around the rims, then dipping them in a shallow plate of coarse salt. Fill the prepared glasses with ice and set aside.
  • Juice your citrus fruits – squeeze the grapefruit and lime to get fresh juice. Strain out any seeds or excessive pulp for a smoother cocktail.
  • Fill your cocktail shaker with ice about halfway. The ice should be fresh and cold for the best dilution and temperature.
  • Add all liquid ingredients to the shaker: grapefruit juice, lime juice, tequila, orange liqueur, and agave nectar. Secure the lid tightly.
  • Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty. This properly chills and dilutes the cocktail.
  • Strain the mixture into your prepared glasses, being careful not to disturb the salt rim.
  • Garnish each glass with a grapefruit wedge or twist. For an extra touch, lightly squeeze the wedge over the drink to release some oils before placing it on the rim.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed grapefruit juice—the bottled kind simply can’t compare in terms of brightness and complexity.
  • Ruby red grapefruits tend to be sweeter than white or pink varieties, which may affect how much sweetener you need to add.
  • The quality of your tequila matters significantly—choose a good 100% agave blanco tequila that you’d enjoy sipping on its own.
  • If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, start with less agave nectar and adjust to taste.
  • For a spicy variation, muddle a few thin slices of jalapeño in the shaker before adding the other ingredients.
  • This recipe can easily be scaled up to make a pitcher for entertaining—just maintain the proportions.