The Spicy Blood Orange Margarita is bold, citrusy, and full of character. Sweet-tart blood orange juice gives it a rich, deep flavor, while fresh lime keeps it bright. Tequila lays the base, and a touch of jalapeño or chili adds just the right amount of heat. It’s the kind of drink that hits with sweetness first, then finishes with a warm, peppery kick. Served over ice with a chili-lime or salted rim, it’s perfect for nights when you want something fresh but with an edge. It’s vibrant, balanced, and easy to keep sipping.

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Tasting Notes

This Spicy Blood Orange Margarita is bright, citrusy, and has a slow-building heat. The blood orange juice brings a bold, slightly sweet citrus flavor with a hint of berry. Lime juice adds a sharp, fresh kick, while the jalapeño slices give it just enough spice without overpowering. Silver tequila keeps things crisp and clean, and simple syrup smooths everything out. The Tajín rim adds a salty, tangy punch that ties it all together. It’s fresh, spicy, and seriously refreshing.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a shaker, jigger, strainer, and a muddler or spoon to press the jalapeños. A citrus press helps make juicing limes easier. Use a small plate and lime wedge for rimming the glass with Tajín. A rocks glass or coupe works great for serving. If you want to show off the color, clear glass is best.

Ingredients

2 oz silver tequila
1 oz blood orange juice
1 oz lime juice
0.5 oz simple syrup
2 jalapeño slices
Tajín (for rimming)
Lime wedge (for rimming)
Garnish: blood orange wedge

Instructions

Run a lime wedge around the rim of a glass and dip it into Tajín. Fill with ice and set aside.
For extra heat, lightly muddle the jalapeño slices in your shaker.
Add tequila, blood orange juice, lime juice, simple syrup, and jalapeño slices to a shaker with ice. Shake well until chilled.
Strain into the prepared glass.
Add a blood orange wedge for a flavorful finish.

Pro Tips

Adjust the spice by using more or fewer jalapeño slices—remove the seeds for less heat.
Use fresh blood orange juice for the best color and flavor.
Shake well to fully chill and mix the drink.
For a stronger citrus kick, add a splash more lime juice.
Tajín gives the best rim flavor, but you can also use a mix of salt and chili powder if needed.

When to Serve

This Spicy Blood Orange Margarita is perfect for taco night, weekend happy hours, or any time you want a bold, refreshing margarita with a twist. It’s especially great in late winter and spring when blood oranges are in season. Serve it at parties, BBQs, or whenever you want something with flavor and a little heat.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Choose a smooth silver tequila like Espolòn, Olmeca Altos, or El Tesoro.
Use fresh-squeezed blood orange juice if you can get it, or a high-quality bottled version like Natalie’s.
For simple syrup, you can use store-bought or make your own (1:1 sugar to water).
Always use fresh jalapeños, and keep Tajín on hand for the perfect rim every time.

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