Smoky Watermelon Lemon Margarita

From: Half Baked Harvest

A quick, easy, and refreshing summer margarita...finish with a salty chili lemon rimmed glass, herbs, and a watermelon wedge for that extra special touch!


Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 1

Ingredients

• 2-3 cups cubed watermelon
• 2 ounces mezcal or silver tequila
• 1/2 ounce Cointreau (orange liquor)
• juice from 1/2 lemon
• 4 fresh basil and or mint leaves, torn
• 1-2 jalapeño slices
• 1/4 cup sparkling water, for topping

Chili Lemon Salt

• 1/4 cup flaky sea salt
• 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
• 1 pinch granulated sugar
• zest from 1 lemon

Instructions

• To make the watermelon juice, blend 2 cups cubed watermelon in a blender. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.

• To make the chili salt. Combine all the ingredients on a shallow plate. Rim your glass in salt.

• In a cocktail shaker or glass jar, add 1/4 cup watermelon juice, Mezcal, Cointreau, lemon juice, mint/basil, and jalapeño slices. Fill with ice and shake until combined, about 1 minute. The longer you shake, the spicier it will be.

• Strain into your prepared glass. Top with sparkling water, if desired. Garnish as desired with a watermelon wedge and fresh herbs. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

If a Sweeter Drink is Desired: stir in 1-2 teaspoons honey or granulated sugar.

Orange Liquor: if you don't have orange liquor at home, you can either omit (I often do) or use 2 teaspoons orange zest or a splash of orange juice.