This bold margarita brings the heat with fresh jalapeños balanced by sweet pineapple and premium tequila. The combination of tropical sweetness and spicy kick creates an unforgettable cocktail that's perfect for summer parties or whenever you want to add some excitement to your happy hour.
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 240ml high-quality silver tequila
- 120ml triple sec or Cointreau
- 200g fresh pineapple, diced
- 2 medium jalapeño peppers, seeded and sliced (adjust to taste)
- 120ml fresh lime juice
- 45ml agave nectar (adjust to taste)
- 60ml coarse salt for rim
- 5ml chili powder for rim
- 2 limes lime wedges for rim and garnish
- as needed ice cubes
- 4 pieces pineapple wedges for garnish
- 8 slices jalapeño slices for garnish
Instructions
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In a blender, combine 200g fresh pineapple, 2 medium jalapeño peppers, 120ml fresh lime juice, and 45ml agave nectar (adjust to taste). Blend until smooth and well combined.
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Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing solids to extract juice. Discard pulp. This creates your spicy pineapple base.
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In a cocktail shaker, combine the pineapple-jalapeño base, 240ml high-quality silver tequila, and 120ml triple sec or Cointreau. Add ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
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Prepare glasses by mixing 60ml coarse salt for rim and 5ml chili powder for rim on a small plate. Rub rim of each glass with a 2 limes lime wedges for rim and garnish, then dip in the salt-chili mixture.
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Fill prepared glasses with fresh as needed ice cubes. Strain the margarita mixture into the glasses.
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Garnish each glass with 4 pieces pineapple wedges for garnish, 8 slices jalapeño slices for garnish, and additional 2 limes lime wedges for rim and garnish.
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Serve immediately and enjoy responsibly!
Tips
Heat Control: Start with 1 jalapeño and taste before adding more. Remove seeds for milder heat, or leave them in for extra fire. The heat will increase the longer the jalapeños sit in the mixture.
Pineapple Preparation: Use very ripe, sweet pineapple for the best flavor balance against the spicy jalapeños. Frozen pineapple chunks work in a pinch but fresh is preferred.
Tequila Quality: Use 100% agave silver tequila for the cleanest flavor that won't compete with the pineapple and jalapeño.
Make-Ahead Base: The pineapple-jalapeño base can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored refrigerated. Strain again before using if separation occurs.
Rim Variations: Try tajín seasoning instead of salt and chili powder for an authentic Mexican touch, or use smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
Batch Serving: For parties, multiply recipe and serve in a pitcher. Add ice just before serving to prevent dilution.
Non-Alcoholic Version: Omit tequila and triple sec, add sparkling water or ginger ale for a spicy pineapple mocktail.