Barefoot Contessa Jalapeño Margaritas are made with silver tequila, Triple Sec, lime juice, lemon juice, honey, kosher salt, and fresh jalapeño. This recipe creates a mildly spicy, ice-cold margarita with a citrusy punch. It takes about 6 hours and 10 minutes to prepare and serves 6 drinks.
Barefoot Contessa Jalapeño Margaritas Ingredients
- 1 small jalapeño pepper (or half a large jalapeño)
- 1½ cups silver tequila, such as Avión
- 1 cup Triple Sec
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (8 limes)
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (2 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Pinch of kosher salt
- Ice
How To Make Barefoot Contessa Jalapeño Margaritas
- Infuse the Tequila: Pierce the jalapeño in 8–10 places, cut it in half lengthwise, and place it in a 4-cup measuring cup with the tequila. Cover and let sit at room temperature for 24 hours.
- Strain the Tequila: Remove and discard the jalapeño. Strain the tequila through a sieve to remove seeds.
- Mix the Margarita Base: In a pitcher, combine the infused tequila, Triple Sec, lime juice, lemon juice, honey, and salt. Stir well.
- Chill or Serve Immediately: Use the mix right away or refrigerate for up to 6 hours.
- Serve Over Ice: Fill margarita glasses with ice, pour over the margarita mixture, or shake with ice in a cocktail shaker and serve ice cold.
Recipe Tips
- Control the Heat: Use a smaller piece of jalapeño or infuse for less time to reduce spiciness.
- Use Fresh Juice: Freshly squeezed lime and lemon juice offer the best flavor.
- Shake for Chill: Shaking with ice makes the drink colder and slightly frothy.
- Prep Ahead: The mix keeps well for up to 6 hours refrigerated.
- Salted Rim Option: Rub a lime wedge around the glass and dip in salt for a classic touch.
What To Serve With Margaritas
These margaritas pair well with guacamole and chips, shrimp tacos, grilled chicken skewers, or a fresh ceviche. Their citrusy heat also complements smoky grilled vegetables or spicy salsas.
How To Store Margaritas
Refrigerate: Store the margarita mixture in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 6 hours. Stir before serving.
Freeze: Not recommended, as citrus juices may lose their brightness when frozen.
Margaritas Nutrition Facts
Estimated per serving:
- Calories: 210
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 0g
- Sodium: 25mg
FAQs
How spicy are these margaritas?
They are mildly spicy. Use more jalapeño or a longer infusion for extra heat.
Can I make these margaritas less sweet?
Yes, reduce or omit the honey to cut sweetness.
What’s a good substitute for Triple Sec?
Cointreau or Grand Marnier can be used in place of Triple Sec.
Do I have to infuse the tequila?
Infusion adds unique flavor, but you can skip it and muddle fresh jalapeño instead.
Can I batch this for a party?
Yes, simply scale the ingredients proportionally to serve more guests.
Try More Recipes:
- Barefoot Contessa Summer Rosé Sangria
- Barefoot Contessa Aperol Spritzer
- Barefoot Contessa Raspberry Royale
Barefoot Contessa Jalapeño Margaritas
Description
A refreshingly spicy margarita made with infused tequila, citrus juices, and a hint of honey.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pierce the jalapeño in 8–10 places, cut it in half, and place in a measuring cup with the tequila. Cover and let sit at room temperature for 24 hours.
- Discard the jalapeño and strain the tequila.
- In a pitcher, mix the tequila, Triple Sec, lime juice, lemon juice, honey, and salt.
- Use immediately or chill for up to 6 hours.
- Serve over ice or shake with ice and pour into glasses.