Paul Kushner
The Strawberry Lemonade Aperol Margarita is bright, tangy, and full of flavor. It combines tequila with Aperol, fresh strawberry puree or syrup, and lemonade for a fun twist on the classic margarita. The Aperol adds a slightly bitter, citrusy edge that balances the sweetness of the strawberries and the tart kick from the lemonade. It’s bold without being too strong, making it perfect for warm weather hangouts, happy hours, or backyard parties. Serve it over ice with a salted or sugared rim and a slice of lemon or a fresh strawberry for a refreshing, easygoing drink.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
Tasting Notes
The Strawberry Lemonade Aperol Margarita is a dazzling fusion of tart citrus, ripe berries, bittersweet orange, and a fizzy ginger kick. Fresh strawberries and lemon juice bring juicy, tangy brightness, while silver tequila and Cointreau offer a bold, smooth base with zesty depth. Aperol adds a lightly bitter, citrusy note that balances the sweetness perfectly. A splash of ginger beer on top makes this margarita crisp and refreshing, while a Tajín rim gives it a savory, spicy edge. It’s layered, bright, and endlessly sippable—perfect for when you want a margarita with a twist of flair and complexity.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a cocktail shaker to blend the juices, liqueurs, and fruit. A muddler or the back of a spoon helps crush the strawberries and lemon slice to release their fresh juices. A jigger ensures precise measuring for tequila, Cointreau, Aperol, and citrus. Shake everything with ice, then strain into a rocks glass or margarita glass rimmed with Tajín for a spicy-salty accent. A fine mesh strainer helps remove pulp and seeds. Garnish with a lemon wheel or skewered strawberry for a polished, vibrant presentation.
Ingredients
- 2 oz silver tequila
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz Aperol
- ¾ oz Cointreau
- ½ oz lime juice
- ½ lemon slice
- 4 fresh strawberries
- Ginger beer (to top)
- Tajín (for rimming)
- Garnish: strawberry or lemon wheel (optional)
Instructions
- Rim the Glass: Run a lemon wedge around the rim of a glass and dip it into Tajín. Fill the glass with ice and set aside.
- Muddle: In a shaker, muddle the strawberries and lemon slice until juicy.
- Shake: Add lemon juice, lime juice, Cointreau, tequila, Aperol, and ice. Shake vigorously until well chilled.
- Strain: Strain into the prepared glass.
- Top: Add a splash of ginger beer and stir gently.
- Garnish: Garnish with a strawberry or lemon wheel, if desired.
Pro Tips
- Use ripe strawberries and fresh citrus juice for maximum brightness and depth of flavor.
- Shake the cocktail hard to fully integrate the muddled fruit and achieve a smooth blend.
- Rim your glass just before serving so the Tajín stays crisp.
- If you want a slightly sweeter drink, add ¼ oz agave syrup or honey syrup.
- For a smoky twist, substitute mezcal for half the tequila.
- Choose a dry ginger beer like Fever-Tree or Q Ginger Beer to avoid too much sweetness and keep the balance lively.
When to Serve
This cocktail is perfect for summer parties, brunches, outdoor dinners, and festive celebrations. It’s also a fun choice for Cinco de Mayo, margarita nights, or any gathering that calls for a colorful, crowd-pleasing cocktail with a citrusy kick. Its light effervescence and fruity complexity make it great for early evening sipping or as a bold signature cocktail. Serve it when you want something that blends familiarity with flair—bright, bubbly, and far from ordinary.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Choose a smooth, high-quality silver tequila like Espolòn Blanco, Olmeca Altos, or Cazadores for a clean, agave-forward base.
- For orange liqueur, Cointreau or Grand Marnier work best. Use Aperol for its signature bittersweet flavor and vibrant hue.
- Opt for crisp ginger beer like Fever-Tree, Reed’s, or Q for the ideal balance.
- Use fresh organic strawberries, lemons, and limes for the brightest, most refreshing profile.
- Don’t forget Tajín Clásico for the perfect spicy-citrus rim.
Similar Cocktails
- Broncos Sunset
- Strawberry Aperol Spritz
- Pineapple Black Sea Salt Margarita
- Cherry Spritz
- Aperol Orange Creamsicle Cocktail
Equipment
- Plate for rimming
Ingredients
- 2 oz silver tequila
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz Aperol
- ¾ oz Cointreau
- ½ oz lime juice
- ½ lemon slice
- 4 fresh strawberries
- Ginger beer to top
- Tajín for rimming
- Garnish: strawberry or lemon wheel optional
Instructions
- Rim the Glass: Run a lemon wedge around the rim of a glass and dip it into Tajín. Fill the glass with ice and set aside.
- Muddle: In a shaker, muddle the strawberries and lemon slice until juicy.
- Shake: Add lemon juice, lime juice, Cointreau, tequila, Aperol, and ice. Shake vigorously until well chilled.
- Strain: Strain into the prepared glass.
- Top: Add a splash of ginger beer and stir gently.
- Garnish: Garnish with a strawberry or lemon wheel, if desired.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor.
- Adjust Aperol to taste if you prefer more or less bitterness.
- Chill the ginger beer before topping to preserve its fizz.
