These frozen watermelon margaritas are an ideal summer cocktail: bright, fruity, and easy to make. By blending frozen watermelon with fresh lime juice, tequila, and a splash of triple sec, you get a refreshing slush that’s ready in minutes. They’re perfect for warm afternoons, backyard gatherings, or a relaxed evening with friends.
What do I need to make these Watermelon Margaritas?
You only need a handful of fresh ingredients to make these watermelon margaritas. Keep the components simple and fresh to let the watermelon flavor shine.
- Fresh watermelon (cubed and frozen)
- Freshly squeezed lime juice
- Tequila
- Triple sec
- Salt, for rimming the glasses
- Lime wedges, for garnish
How do you choose a ripe watermelon
Choose a watermelon that feels heavy for its size and has a uniform shape. A ripe melon will have a dull, not shiny, surface and a yellow or orange “field spot” where it rested on the ground; avoid melons with white spots. Tap the rind—if it sounds hollow, it’s usually ripe and juicy.
How do you freeze a watermelon?
To freeze watermelon properly, cut it into quarters and remove the rind. Cube the flesh into bite-size pieces and spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze the pieces individually on the sheet; this prevents them from clumping into one solid block. Once solid, transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag or airtight container and store until you’re ready to blend.
How to Make a Frozen Watermelon Margarita
Making these margaritas is quick and straightforward. Start by adding the liquids to the blender so the blades can move freely, then add the frozen watermelon cubes to create a smooth, slushy texture.
Blend until the mixture reaches a creamy slush consistency. If the blender struggles, pulse a few times, then blend continuously. You can adjust the texture by adding a splash of water or extra lime juice to thin slightly, or a few more frozen cubes to thicken.
How to Serve your Margaritas
To serve, run a lime wedge around the rim of each glass and dip the rim in salt for a classic margarita presentation. Pour the blended margarita into the prepared glasses and garnish with a lime wedge. Serve immediately while the texture is icy and refreshing.
How to make this a mocktail
Turn this into a non-alcoholic mocktail by leaving out the tequila and triple sec. Replace the alcohol with an equal amount of watermelon soda or another complementary soda, such as lemon-lime, pineapple, or strawberry soda. This keeps the bright flavor and frosty texture without alcohol.
Recipe Snapshot
- Prep time: about 10 minutes (plus 4 hours to freeze watermelon)
- Yield: about 1 drink per recipe amount below (scale as needed)
Ingredients
- For the glasses: lime wedges and salt
- For the margaritas:
- 1 1/4 cups frozen watermelon cubes
- 1–2 tbsp triple sec
- 2 ounces tequila
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp agave (optional)
Instructions
- Freeze the watermelon: Cube watermelon and freeze the amount you need on a baking sheet so pieces freeze separately. Transfer to a freezer bag when solid.
- Blend: Add tequila, lime juice, and triple sec to the blender, then add the frozen watermelon cubes. Blend until smooth and slush-like. Add agave if you prefer it sweeter.
- Serve: Rim glasses with lime and salt, pour the margarita into glasses, garnish with a lime wedge, and enjoy immediately.
Nutrition
Per serving (approximate): 307 kcal, 38 g carbohydrates, 1 g protein, 0.4 g fat, 31 g sugar. Nutrition values are estimated and should be used as a guideline only.