Some nights call for a classic margarita, or even a spicy margarita if you’re feeling fiery. But if you really want to impress that special someone this Valentine’s Day (or whenever!), a ruby red-hued drink is the way to go. We’re talking about this stunning blood orange margarita recipe, a riff on the traditional marg jazzed up with blood orange juice, which adds some major drama.
It’s the perfect way to kick off a sensual V-Day experience, especially if you’re planning the most romantic Valentine’s Day ever or snagging a romantic gift for your special someone. Blood orange juice lends both sweet and sour notes, while silver tequila lands a boozy punch. Cointreau and lime juice bolster the drink’s essential citrusy-ness, while sugary agave nectar tips the scales away from lip-puckering.
Looking for more Valentine’s Day sips? Mix up one of these additional Valentine’s Day cocktails or pop open a Prosecco bottle for a romantic evening in.
How to Make a Blood Orange Margarita
Recipe by Jacy Topps
Serves 2
Ingredients
- Blood orange slices, for garnish
- Lime slices, for garnish
- Kosher (coarse) salt, for garnish
- 4 ounces blood orange juice, freshly squeezed (about 3 blood oranges)
- 3 ounces silver tequila
- 1 ounce Cointreau
- ¾ ounce agave nectar*
- 1 ½ ounces lime juice, freshly squeezed
Instructions
Moisten the outer rim of the glasses with the orange or lime, and dip the rims into salt to lightly coat.
Combine blood orange juice, lime juice, tequila, Cointreau and agave nectar in a shaker filled with ice.
Shake for at least 30 seconds and strain into the salt-rimmed glass filled with ice.
Garnish with orange and lime slices.
*Simple syrup can be used as a substitute
FAQ
What Is in a Blood Orange Margarita?
Just like a classic margarita recipe, this version includes tequila, agave, lime juice, Cointreau and a salt rim. The addition of blood orange juice makes it a blood orange margarita.
What Is the Best Tequila for a Blood Orange Margarita?
Wine Enthusiast Assistant Editor Jacy Topps recommends using a silver or blanco tequila in your blood orange margarita recipe. Her top pick is LALO Blanco tequila. “Its citrus and floral characteristics are wonderful in this cocktail,” she says. But any of these popular tequilas for margaritas would work.
Last Updated: June 5, 2023
