Save to Pinterest A vibrant twist on the classic margarita, this cocktail balances tart cranberry and tangy pickle brine with tequila, finished with a fiery, spiced rim for an unforgettable flavor kick.
I first mixed this up for a holiday party and it quickly became the star of the night. Guests loved how the unexpected pickle brine transformed the traditional margarita into something truly memorable.
Ingredients
- Blanco tequila: 3 oz (90 ml)
- Cranberry juice: 2 oz (60 ml), unsweetened or lightly sweetened
- Fresh lime juice: 1 oz (30 ml)
- Pickle brine: 1 oz (30 ml) from dill pickles
- Agave syrup or simple syrup: 0.5 oz (15 ml), adjust to taste
- Ice cubes: As needed
- Coarse salt: 1 tbsp (for rim)
- Chili powder: 1 tsp (for rim)
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp (for rim)
- Lime zest: from 1/2 lime (for rim)
- Lime wedge: for rimming glass
- Lime wheels: 2, for garnish
- Small dill pickle spears: 2, for garnish
- Fresh cranberries: optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Spicy Rim:
- In a shallow dish, mix the salt, chili powder, smoked paprika, and lime zest.
- Rim Glasses:
- Rub a lime wedge around the rims of two rocks glasses. Dip the rims into the spice mixture to coat evenly.
- Mix Cocktail:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the tequila, cranberry juice, lime juice, pickle brine, and agave syrup.
- Shake:
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
- Serve:
- Fill the prepared glasses with fresh ice. Strain the margarita mixture evenly into each glass.
- Garnish:
- Garnish each drink with a lime wheel, a pickle spear, and a few fresh cranberries if desired.
Save to Pinterest This quirky margarita is now a staple at family tacos night. My partner requests the spicy rim every time, and even the kids love helping with the cranberry garnish (using mocktails, of course).
Required Tools
You will need a cocktail shaker, jigger or measuring cup, citrus juicer, shallow dish for the rim, strainer, and rocks glasses.
Allergen Information
Contains none of the major allergens. For those with sensitivities, confirm store-bought ingredients are free of cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Each serving: 180 calories, 0 g total fat, 15 g carbohydrates, 0 g protein.
Save to Pinterest Serve these cranberry-pickle margaritas ice-cold for maximum refreshment. Cheers to adventure in a glass!
Common Recipe Questions
- → What gives this drink its spicy kick?
The rim is coated with a blend of chili powder, smoked paprika, coarse salt, and lime zest, giving a fiery flavor contrast.
- → Can I adjust the tanginess of the drink?
Yes, reducing the amount of pickle brine will soften the tang, and adjusting agave syrup can balance sweetness accordingly.
- → What type of tequila works best for this blend?
Blanco tequila is recommended for its clean, crisp flavor that complements the tart and tangy ingredients.
- → Are there garnish suggestions to enhance presentation?
Lime wheels, dill pickle spears, and fresh cranberries offer colorful and flavorful garnishes that highlight the drink’s key ingredients.
- → Is this drink suitable for special diets?
Yes, it is vegan, gluten-free, and free from major allergens when using appropriate ingredients.