Holly Jolly Margarita

There’s something cheerful about pouring a Holly Jolly Margarita during the holidays. The bright green color stands out right away, and the lime scent makes the drink feel fresh before the first sip. I remember mixing one on a quiet December afternoon, wanting something simple that still felt connected to the season. The color alone made the room feel lighter, and the taste brought a calm, citrusy lift that felt good after a long day.

The Holly Jolly Margarita brings together tequila, Midori, and lime in a way that feels bright without being too sweet. What I enjoy most about this margarita is how it fits winter, even though the flavors lean fruity and light. The tequila adds strength, Midori adds a gentle melon note, and lime keeps everything clean. It works well when you want a holiday drink that feels upbeat but not heavy. It also looks great in photos, especially with a Tajín rim. This mix fits the season in a simple, quick way.

If you’ve been searching for winter margarita drinks that feel refreshing, the Holly Jolly Margarita might be a good fit. It works for Christmas party drinks, small gatherings, and quiet nights at home when you want something bright and crisp. I love this because it feels festive while staying easy to sip. Sometimes a small pop of color in a glass can shift the mood, and this drink does that nicely.

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Why You’ll Love This

A Holly Jolly Margarita has a clean, bright flavor that brings a fun twist to winter. It’s simple to mix and works for several holiday settings.

• The Midori gives a soft melon tone
• Lime juice keeps the drink sharp and crisp
• Tequila brings structure and balance
• The color makes it one of the most festive Christmas margarita drinks
• It fits easily with Christmas cocktails when you need something quick
• The Tajín rim adds a gentle heat that pairs well with citrus

Everything comes together in a way that feels lively and fun.

Ingredients

This margarita uses a few ingredients that blend cleanly, creating a bright, refreshing holiday drink. The mix stays simple, so the flavors feel clear.

You’ll need

• 1.5 ounces tequila
• 1 ounce Midori
• 1 ounce lime juice
• Tajín seasoning for rimming (optional)
• lime slice, for garnish (optional)

The tequila gives the drink structure. Midori adds a light melon flavor, keeping the drink playful. Lime juice lifts the mix with a clean citrus edge. Tajín adds a spicy rim that pairs well with fruity cocktails. The lime slice brings a small burst of aroma and color.

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

You can make a Holly Jolly Margarita with several types of tequila or melon liqueur. Small changes can shift the flavor without losing the holiday feel.

• Espolòn Blanco keeps the drink sharp and clean
• Patrón Silver gives a smoother finish for refreshing holiday margaritas
• Midori is classic, but DeKuyper Melon works if you want a lighter tone
• Fresh lime juice is best, but bottled lime juice can work in a pinch
• You can swap Tajín for salt if you prefer a milder rim
• Add a splash of simple syrup if you want a sweeter drink

These adjustments help you match the drink to your taste and ingredients.

Equipment and Glassware

A Holly Jolly Margarita doesn’t need much equipment. A simple shaker and a margarita or rocks glass are enough.

• Margarita Glass
• Cocktail Shaker
• Jigger
• Strainer
• Small plate

Chill the glass so the drink stays cold longer, then shake long enough for a crisp mix. Clear ice keeps the color bright, and prepping the rim before shaking makes everything flow smoothly. Fresh lime juice gives the best flavor, and using a shallow bowl or plate for the Tajín makes the rimming easier. These small details help the drink look clean and taste balanced.

How to Make It

This margarita comes together fast and has a smooth, bright flavor. Shaking brings the citrus and Midori together in a clean way.

1. Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glass.
2. Dip the rim into Tajín seasoning for a spicy edge.
3. Add tequila, Midori, and lime juice to an empty shaker.
4. Add ice, then shake until the mix feels cold.
5. Strain into the prepared glass.
6. Add a lime slice for a simple garnish.

You can adjust the citrus or sweetness to find the balance you enjoy most.

Pro Tips

A few small tips can make your Holly Jolly Margarita taste brighter and look neater in the glass.

• Use fresh lime juice for a cleaner finish
• Shake longer if you want a stronger chill
• Add a bit more Midori for a deeper green color
• Use a finer Tajín for a softer rim
• Taste before adding sweetener
• Keep all ingredients cold before mixing
• Add crushed ice for a softer sip
• Use a high-quality blanco tequila for the cleanest flavor

Try different adjustments until the drink fits your style.

Variations

You can shift the Holly Jolly Margarita in several fun ways. These variations keep the color or change the flavor in small ways that still feel festive.

• Add simple syrup for a sweeter finish
• Use lemon juice instead of lime for a sharper citrus tone
• Add a few drops of orange liqueur for depth
• Swap Midori for cucumber liqueur for a lighter twist
• Add sparkling water for a taller drink

Each variation offers a different take while still fitting seasonal margarita variations.

When to Serve and Pairings

The Holly Jolly Margarita works for holiday gatherings, small parties, and relaxed nights at home. Its bright flavor pairs well with snacks and simple dishes.

Try it with

• Chips and guacamole
• Shrimp dishes
• Light cheese boards
• Spicy snacks
• Lime-based desserts

It also fits holiday margarita ideas when you need a drink that feels fun but not heavy.

Storage and Serving Notes

This drink tastes best when served fresh. You can mix the tequila and Midori ahead of time, but wait to add lime juice until you’re ready to shake. Store the mix in the fridge for up to one day. Shake each serving with ice to keep the drink crisp and cold.

FAQs

Here are a few common questions about making holiday tequila cocktails like the Holly Jolly Margarita.

Can I make this sweeter?
Yes. Add simple syrup or a splash of pineapple juice.

Can I use another rim besides Tajín?
Salt or sugar works if you want a milder finish.

Can I make a large batch?
Yes. Mix everything except ice, then shake each serving when ready.

Can I use reposado tequila?
You can, but the flavor will be warmer and less crisp.

Can this be a frozen drink?
Yes. Blend with ice for a snowy holiday margarita feel.

More Cocktails to Try

If you enjoy the Holly Jolly Margarita, here are some other winter mixed drinks you might like.

• Snowjito for a cool mint and coconut twist
• Mistletoe Mintini for a creamy mint holiday drink
• Frosty Flurry for a bright and icy winter cocktail
• White Coconut Christmas Margarita for a smooth coconut sip