We love creative cocktails, especially ones that can be thrown together from ingredients you already have on hand. That’s why we’re currently crushing on this Mixed Berry Margarita, which is easy to shake up from a handful of no-fuss ingredients, including your favorite berries—fresh, frozen, or a combination. Even better, the Mixed Berry Margarita can be made in larger quantities in advance, so you can get ahead on your dinner parties or brunch prep. Then simply pour, add some ice and fresh or thawed berries for garnish, and you’ve got a hand-crafted cocktail that will please even the pickiest of beverage fans.
Mixed Berry Margaritas
Makes 4
Ingredients
1 cup mixed berries (we used strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
1 cup water
3/4 cup sugar or agave
1/2 cup fresh lime juice
3/4 cup tequila
1 tablespoon triple sec
sugar or salt
ice
fresh berries, optional
Instructions
1. Combine the berries, water, and sugar or agave in a small saucepan, and heat over medium. Simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sugar has dissolved and the berries are soft. Allow to cool completely. When cool, strain the syrup to remove most of the berry pieces.
2. Combine the berry syrup, lime juice, triple sec, and a handful of ice in a cocktail shaker. Shake well. If preparing in advance, omit the ice, and store in a covered container in the fridge until needed.
3. In a bowl large enough to fit your glasses, pour about 1/4 inch of water. In a similar bowl, place about 1/4 inch of salt or sugar. Dip the glasses, upside down, in the water and then follow with a dip in the sugar or salt. Shake off the excess, and place the glasses right-side up on your work surface.
4. Pour the margarita mixture evenly into each glass. Add extra ice, if desired, and a few fresh berries for garnish, and serve.