There’s something magical about a summer evening in Asheville — warm air, mountain breeze, and the hum of good company. It was one of those nights, just after culinary school, when I first crafted this strawberry jalapeno margarita recipe. I wanted a cocktail that had both fire and softness — something that could dance on the tongue but still comfort the soul.
This drink became my signature mix of sweet strawberries and spicy jalapeños, the kind of balance I’d been chasing in my cooking for years. It’s bold but refreshing, daring but familiar. Whether you’re hosting a party or just winding down on the porch, this margarita fits the moment.
Over time, it’s become one of the most requested drinks in my kitchen. It’s quick to make, full of flavor, and surprisingly versatile. Once you try it, you might not go back to plain margaritas again — and honestly, I hope you don’t.
Let me show you how to make it just right.
How to Make a Strawberry Jalapeno Margarita
Step 1: Prep the Glass
Swipe a lime wedge around the glass rim, then press it into coarse salt to form a crisp, flavorful edge. Add ice and let it chill while you mix the drink.
Step 2: Muddle for Flavor
Drop jalapeño rounds and sliced strawberries into a cocktail shaker. Reserve one slice for garnish. Muddle gently to release bold flavor without bruising the ingredients.
Step 3: Shake It Up
Add silver tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and a splash of simple syrup. Toss in a handful of ice. Seal the shaker and shake it hard for about 15 seconds, until icy cold and blended.
Step 4: Serve with Style
Strain into your prepared glass. Finish with a strawberry slice — either resting gently on top or clipped to the glass for a simple, eye-catching touch. Sip immediately while chilled.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this strawberry jalapeno margarita plays a role — from heat to citrus tang to sweetness. Here’s everything you need to make one unforgettable glass.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Coarse salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Lime wedge | 1 (for rim) |
| Ice | 2 cups, or as needed |
| Fresh strawberries, sliced | 3 large |
| Fresh jalapeño slices | 3 slices |
| Silver tequila | 2 fluid ounces |
| Triple sec | 1 fluid ounce |
| Lime juice | 1 fluid ounce |
| Simple syrup | ¾ ounce |
Tips, Variations & Make-Ahead Ideas
Adjust the Heat
If you’re sensitive to spice, begin with just one jalapeño slice and remove the seeds before muddling. However, if you crave extra heat, keep the seeds in — or better yet, infuse the tequila with jalapeño slices for 10 to 15 minutes. This trick deepens the flavor without overpowering the drink.
Make It a Frozen Margarita
For a cooler twist, turn this into a frozen strawberry jalapeno margarita by blending everything with 1½ cups of ice. As a result, you’ll get a smooth, slushy drink that’s perfect for hot afternoons or backyard parties.
No Booze? No Problem
If you’d like a non-alcoholic version, simply skip the tequila and triple sec. Instead, swap them for 2 ounces of orange juice and a splash of sparkling water. This way, you’ll still enjoy the sweet and spicy balance — without the alcohol.
Batch It for a Crowd
When you’re hosting guests, it’s smart to multiply the recipe by four and mix in a pitcher. Therefore, everyone can help themselves. Let the jalapeno slices soak in the mixture to slowly infuse that kick of spice. Just be sure to keep it chilled until serving.
Swap the Sweetener
Swap out the simple syrup by stirring in honey or agave nectar for a more natural layer of sweetness. Each option has its own character — agave is earthier, while honey brings a floral note. Both are natural options; however, agave has a more assertive flavor, so you may want to use a bit less and taste as you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Slice one fresh jalapeno and add it to a jar with 1 cup of silver tequila. For extra flavor, toss in a few sliced strawberries. Allow the mixture to steep for anywhere from 8 to 24 hours, depending on your preferred intensity. Once ready, pour it through a fine mesh to strain. The result is a bold, fruity-spicy base for cocktails.
Many bartenders swear by orange liqueur — like triple sec — to balance tart lime with sweetness. That said, adding just a touch of agave or a sprinkle of sea salt can surprisingly boost the flavor depth without overpowering the drink.
A “dirty” margarita typically includes olive brine or muddled jalapeños, giving it a salty or spicy twist. This variation adds complexity, much like a dirty martini does with olive juice.
A jalapeño margarita usually includes silver tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and sliced jalapeños. Some versions add fruit like strawberries or mango for contrast. Always adjust the spice level to taste.
Yes, frozen strawberries are a great choice — particularly when making a blended or slushy-style margarita. Just let them thaw slightly before muddling. Just be sure to thaw them slightly before muddling, or blend them directly for a slushy version.
Simply remove the seeds from the jalapeño slices or reduce the number used. For even less heat, muddle the jalapeños lightly and strain the mix thoroughly before serving.
Serving Ideas & Party Pairings
What to Serve With This Margarita
The sweet-heat flavor of this strawberry jalapeño margarita pairs beautifully with grilled dishes like shrimp tacos, carne asada skewers, or roasted corn elote. For a simple snack setup, serve it alongside guacamole, spiced nuts, or this homemade tortilla chip recipe for a perfect bite-sip rhythm.
Set the Vibe
If you’re hosting, create a sensory mood. Pair the drink with a summer playlist filled with upbeat Latin rhythms or relaxed acoustic tracks. The cocktail’s bold kick works especially well in festive settings where both music and conversation flow freely.
Cost per Glass
Using in-season strawberries and pantry staples like salt and lime, this cocktail comes in at around $2.60–$3.20 per serving — far less than bar prices. Plus, it’s fully customizable to your spice and sweetness level.
Internal Pairing Suggestions
This drink also works wonderfully as part of a full spread. Try it next to our spicy mango salsa or follow it with something cooling, like a no-churn coconut ice cream.
Storage & Nutrition Tips
Can You Store This Margarita?
Yes — if you’re making a larger batch, you can store the mix (without ice) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Give the mixture a good shake before pouring to ensure all flavors are evenly blended — some separation is natural. However, it’s best served fresh to preserve the brightness of the lime and strawberries.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving, Estimated)
- Calories: ~185
- Sugar: ~9g
- Carbohydrates: ~13g
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0.3g
- Alcohol (ABV): ~12–15% depending on pour strength
Note: Values are approximate and vary based on ingredients used.
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Strawberry Jalapeno Margarita Recipe
- Total Time: 10 mins
- Yield: 1 cocktail
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This strawberry jalapeno margarita recipe blends fresh berries and spicy jalapeños with tequila for a cocktail that’s equal parts bold and refreshing. Ideal for warm evenings or festive gatherings, it’s easily adjusted for heat or sweetness to suit your taste.
Ingredients
1 teaspoon coarse salt
1 lime wedge
2 cups ice, or as needed
3 large strawberries, sliced
3 slices fresh jalapeño
2 fluid ounces silver tequila
1 fluid ounce triple sec
1 fluid ounce lime juice
3/4 ounce simple syrup
Instructions
1. Swipe a lime wedge around the glass rim, then press it into coarse salt to form a crisp, flavorful edge. Add ice and let it chill while you mix the drink.
2. Drop jalapeño rounds and sliced strawberries into a cocktail shaker. Reserve one slice for garnish. Muddle gently to release bold flavor without bruising the ingredients.
3. Add silver tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and a splash of simple syrup. Toss in a handful of ice. Seal the shaker and shake it hard for about 15 seconds, until icy cold and blended.
4. Strain into your prepared glass. Finish with a strawberry slice — either resting gently on top or clipped to the glass for a simple, eye-catching touch.
Notes
To reduce heat, remove seeds from jalapeño or muddle gently.
To make a batch, multiply ingredients and mix in a pitcher (no ice) up to 1 day ahead.
For a frozen version, blend everything with 1½ cups ice.
Use agave or honey for a natural sweetener swap.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Shaken
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired