The shift from winter to spring is highly anticipated (especially here in New England), and even though winter seems to be dragging on, springtime is just around the corner. As the days get warmer and the sun shines ever longer, it’s time to put away the hot toddies and break out the cocktail shaker. We’ve compiled a list of tequila-based cocktails with fresh fruits and herbs that are perfect for spring. As you finish your spring-cleaning and start planning summer vacations, take some time to sit on the patio and enjoy one of these spring cocktails.
1) The Tequila Sunrise
The Tequila Sunrise, a classic spring cocktail, was originally created in the 1930s, but the popular version (featured here) was actually created in the early 1970s. For a retro drink perfect for a brunch, try out this recipe from Glow Guide.
Ingredients:
- 4 oz. of orange juice
- 2 oz. of tequila
- 1/2 oz. of grenadine
Directions:
1.Mix tequila and orange juice in a highball glass, then slowly add grenadine along the inside edge of the glass.
2. Once the grenadine settles, garnish with an orange slice and a cherry. Nix the tequila for a virgin Sweet Sunrise.
Yield: 6.5 oz
2) Raspberry Tequila Sangria
If you like sangria, then you’ll love this Raspberry Tequila Sangria from Hopeless Domestic. The cheery pink color is just the thing to help shrug off those winter blues.
Ingredients:
- 2 oranges
- 3 limes
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 6 cups ice
- 1 (10 ounce) bag frozen sweetened raspberries
- 1 cup silver tequila
- 1/2 cup triple sec
1 bottle of champagne- 4 cups chilled lemon lime soda
Directions:
1. Juice one orange and two limes to measure 1/4 cup juice each. Combine juices and sugar in a microwavable bowl. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes or until sugar is dissolved. Thinly slice remaining orange and lime.
2. Add ice, juice mixture, orange and lime slices, raspberries, tequila and triple sec in a pitcher and stir. Add champagne and soda, stir gently and serve!
Yield: 12 servings
3) Fragolita
For the strawberry lover, Cosmo has devised a delicious cocktail called the Fragolita. It’s simple and light, and perfect for spring and summer.
Ingredients:
- 1½ oz. Don Julio Tequila Reposado
- 1 oz. sour mix
- ½ oz. strawberry puree
- ½ oz. simple syrup
- 1 strawberry
- Glass: Martini
- Garnish: strawberry
Directions:
1. To make simple syrup, mix equal parts hot water and sugar until sugar is dissolved.
2. Muddle strawberry in a cocktail shaker. Add ice and remaining ingredients. Shake vigorously.
3. Strain into a glass. Garnish with a strawberry.
Yield: 3.5 oz
4) Tequila and Sage Smash
Nothing says springtime like a cocktail that uses fresh herbs. This recipe for a Tequila and Sage Smash from Imbibe Magazine is a perfect afternoon drink and we love that the recipe calls for you to “feel your way around the drink” and find the best balance of ingredients to fit your taste.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 lemon, cut into wedges
- 6 fresh sage leaves
- 2 oz. añejo tequila
- 3/4 oz. honey syrup (equal parts hot water and honey)
- Ice cubes
- Glass: Collins
- Garnish: spanked sage bouquet
1. Muddle the lemon in the bottom of a shaker. Add sage and gently muddle. Add remaining ingredients with ice and shake.
2. Double strain into an ice-filled glass and garnish.
Yield: 2.75 oz
Now, since the basis of all these drinks is tequila, you want to make sure you Know Your Tequila so you can pick the best type to compliment the cocktail you’re making. This is not the time to default to whatever bottle comes cheapest.
If you prefer not to do the preparation, Acapulcos Mexican Restaurant and Family Cantina would be happy to host you. We have a number of tasty cocktails that pair nicely with our authentic Mexican food. We invite you to visit our friendly bartenders in one of our 12 locations across Massachusetts and Connecticut.