Lena Abraham is a freelance contributor with Delish, and was formerly Senior Food Editor, where she developed and styled recipes for video and photo, and also stayed on top of current food trends. She’s been working in the food industry for over 10 years, and will argue that the best fish tacos in the world are made in New York. Don’t @ her.
Those who love mezcal really love mezcal, and we think this refreshing cocktail is one of the best ways to enjoy this unique spirit. With an earthy, slightly smoky flavor, mezcal brings a uniquely savory quality to the typically tequila-based margarita. To spice things up, we add a colorful salt rim spiked with grapefruit zest and red pepper flakes. Tweak the mixture to your preference with different citrus (orange would also be delicious!) or other spices.
Cointreau is our preference for this drink, but any triple sec will do. Some brands of triple sec are sweeter than others, so if you prefer a more tart drink, start with a scant amount, taste, and add more if necessary. For more information, check out our article on orange liqueurs and triple sec recommendations! And for mezcal recommendations, head here. Cheers!
Made this? Let us know how it went in the comment section below!
- Yields:
- 2 serving(s)
- Prep Time:
- 5 mins
- Total Time:
- 10 mins
Ingredients
For The Rims:
- 1 tsp.
finely grated grapefruit zest
- 1 tsp.
kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp.
crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tsp.
agave syrup
For The Margaritas:
- 4 oz.
mezcal, divided
- 2 oz.
triple sec, divided
- 2 oz.
fresh lime juice, divided
- 1 oz.
agave syrup, divided
Grapefruit slices, for garnish
Directions
- Step 1In a small shallow bowl, combine grapefruit zest, salt, and red pepper flakes. Pour agave syrup in another small shallow bowl.
- Step 2Dip rims of 2 rocks glasses into syrup, then dip into grapefruit zest mixture to coat.
- Step 3In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 oz. mezcal, 1 oz. triple sec, 1 oz. lime juice, and 1/2 oz. agave syrup. Fill shaker with ice, cover, and vigorously shake until outside of shaker is very cold, about 30 seconds.
- Step 4Pour into prepared ice-filled glass. Garnish with grapefruit. Repeat with remaining ingredients for a second drink.