Try a Mountain Dew Margarita, a fun variation of the traditional drink. This mix includes tequila, triple sec, and sour mix, topped with Mountain Dew for a citrusy boost. Optionally, rim your glass with Tajin to add a mild spicy note. It’s perfect for a relaxing day or a casual gathering.
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Tasting Notes
The Mountain Dew Margarita brings citrus, melon, and a touch of sweetness together in an easygoing format. Tequila and triple sec form a familiar margarita base, while Midori adds subtle melon character that complements the lime-forward sour mix. Mountain Dew tops it all off with bright citrus flavor and gentle carbonation. The drink lands somewhere between a traditional margarita and a citrus cooler, with added color and a mild green hue. It finishes clean with just enough tartness to balance the sweetness. If rimmed with Tajín, you’ll also get a salty, spicy edge that cuts through the mix nicely.
Equipment and Glassware
To make this cocktail, you’ll need a few simple tools: a cocktail shaker for combining and chilling the ingredients, a strainer to pour the mixture cleanly, and a jigger to measure each liquid accurately. A citrus wedge is handy for rimming the glass before applying Tajín. You’ll also need a serving glass—either a classic margarita glass or a rocks glass works well, depending on your style. Use fresh ice both in the shaker and the serving glass to maintain temperature and prevent dilution from melted ice. A small plate or saucer makes rimming the glass quick and mess-free.
Ingredients
- 1½ oz tequila
- ½ oz triple sec
- ½ oz Midori
- ½ oz sour mix
- 2 oz Mountain Dew
- Garnish: 1 lime wheel
- Tajín for rim
Instructions
- Rub the rim of your glass with a lime and coat the rim with Tajín, if using. Set aside.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add tequila, Midori, triple sec, and sour mix.
- Shake until well chilled.
- Pour into a glass filled with ice.
- Top with Mountain Dew.
- Garnish with a lime wheel.
Pro Tips
- Use chilled Mountain Dew to preserve carbonation when topping.
- Fresh sour mix (lemon and lime juice + simple syrup) adds more brightness than store-bought.
- Tajín on the rim adds a flavorful kick but is optional based on your spice preference.
- Shake the base ingredients well but avoid over-diluting them.
- Serve immediately after topping with soda to maintain the bubbles.
- Try different glasses for presentation rocks glasses are great for a casual vibe.
- If you prefer more tartness, increase the sour mix slightly.
- Lime juice on its own can replace sour mix for a sharper profile.
When to Serve
The Mountain Dew Margarita is best served at casual gatherings where flavor and fun take priority. It’s perfect for summer parties, outdoor cookouts, game nights, or viewing parties especially when you’re looking for something simple yet bold. The drink’s bright color and accessible flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, even for those who don’t usually go for stronger cocktails. With its mix of citrus and bubbles, it works well on warm afternoons or as a cheerful evening drink. It’s also a fun novelty drink to bring to themed parties or events where a twist on tradition is appreciated.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Tequila: Espolòn Blanco, Olmeca Altos Plata, El Jimador
- Triple Sec: Cointreau, DeKuyper, Bols
- Midori Alternatives: Midori (original), Melon Liqueur by Bols
- Sour Mix: Homemade or Master of Mixes Sour
- Mountain Dew: Classic Original Mountain Dew
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz Tequila
- 1/2 oz Triple sec
- 1/2 oz Midori
- 1/2 oz Sour Mix
- 2 oz Mountain Dew
- 1 Lime Wheel Garnish
- Tajin for rim optional
Instructions
- Rum the rim of your glass with a lime and coat the rim with tajin, set aside
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice
- Add tequila, midori, triple sec, and sour mix
- Shake until well chilled
- Pour into a glass fill with ice
- Top with mountain dew
- Garnish with a lime
Video
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use chilled Mountain Dew to maintain the fizz.
- Tajín rim adds a savory kick that contrasts nicely with the sweetness.
- For an extra pop of citrus, squeeze a bit of lime juice over the top before serving.