Reese Witherspoon’s Watermelon Margarita

Whether you are looking for book recommendations or summer cocktail inspo, Reese Witherspoon is our go-to source for everything refined and refreshing. Back in June 2021, she shared her mind-blowingly simple recipe for a Watermelon Margarita on Instagram, and it has been a staple of our warm-weather rotation ever since.

This cocktail is the definition of “summery and simple.” It comes together in two minutes flat, provided you have your ingredients ready to go. The star of the show is the fresh watermelon purée, which provides a naturally sweet, hydrating foundation that pairs perfectly with the punchy acidity of fresh lime juice. It is a breeze to prepare and is the ultimate, crowd-pleasing drink to serve at your next alfresco gathering!

Pro-Tips for a Perfect Margarita

To ensure your margarita is perfectly balanced and icy cold, keep these crucial kitchen tips in mind:

• Purée Like a Pro: If you have trouble finding pre-juiced watermelon at the grocery store, simply cube a fresh watermelon and toss it into a high-speed blender. Pulse until completely smooth, and if you prefer a silkier texture, pour the purée through a fine-mesh strainer before mixing your drink.
• The Perfect Glassware: A classic margarita glass is festive, but feel free to serve this in a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. For an extra touch of flair, run a lime wedge around the rim and dip it in a mixture of kosher salt and a little chili powder!
• Keep it Cold: Since this cocktail relies on fresh juice rather than sugary pre-made mixes, it can warm up quickly in the sun. Use a cocktail shaker filled with plenty of ice to chill the ingredients thoroughly before straining into your glass.

Delicious Food Pairings

The sweetness and acidity of this margarita make it an incredibly versatile partner for food. Try pairing your drink with these refreshing bites:

• Crispy Tacos: The natural sweetness of the watermelon cuts right through the richness of flank steak tacos. Complement them with a fresh cucumber salsa for a meal that feels like a vacation on a plate.
• Summer Rolls: If you want something light, fresh summer rolls packed with shrimp and raw herbs are a match made in heaven. The sweet chili dipping sauce plays beautifully with the melon notes in the cocktail.
• Street Corn Dip: Nothing beats alfresco drinks with friends. A Mexican street corn dip topped with crumbled cotija cheese, cilantro, and fresh lime is the ultimate salty snack to contrast the fruity drink.

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