Save Pin
Looking for the perfect way to cool down when it's warm out? Everyone at my family get-togethers flips for this Watermelon Margarita Mocktail—it's super tangy and packed with real watermelon. I love whipping up this feel-good drink when I want to keep things fun for all ages. Whether I'm hanging by the pool or just relaxing on the porch, this is definitely my all-time favorite for chasing thirst away.
I first whipped up these drinks at a barbecue for Cinco de Mayo and they vanished in no time. Now my friends ask for them at every shindig I go to.
Fresh Ingredients List
- Fresh lime juice: delivers a kick and cuts through the sweetness. Look for hefty, juice-packed limes—rolling them on your counter before juicing helps you get it all out
- Coarse salt: use it to rim your glass for that perfect pop of flavor. I love sea salt for its crunchy bite
- Lime wheel and watermelon wedge: these make your glass look awesome. Choose a sturdy lime and a juicy chunk of bright watermelon
- Tajin seasoning: punches up the flavors with a zesty heat—look near the spices for a bright red jar
- Ice: keeps things seriously cold and locks in flavor. Smaller ice cubes work best to stop your drink from getting watered down
- Cubed watermelon: grab the ripest, seedless melon you can find—taste before you buy for max sweetness
- Agave nectar: brings sweetness without overpowering the watermelon. Go with a lighter style for the cleanest flavor
Simple How-To Steps
- Build and Serve:
- Toss ice into your glass. Pour the cold watermelon blend through a strainer, so you won't get any pulp hanging around. Top with a lime wheel and a wedge of watermelon. Sip right away for the best taste and chill.
- Add Some Style:
- Squeeze lime over a shallow plate. Mix salt and Tajin on another plate. Dip the edge of your glass in the lime then roll it gently in the mix to coat it for that classic Margarita look.
- Chill Your Mocktail:
- Drop lots of fresh ice in a shaker. Pour in strained watermelon juice with your lime juice and agave. Pop on the lid, make sure it's tight, then shake it like crazy for no less than twenty seconds. The colder, the better.
- Get Your Melon Ready:
- Chop up your watermelon, take out any seeds, and toss it in a blender or food processor. Crank it up high for about a minute until smooth and runny. Pour the puree through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl, press with a spoon to get every drop.
Save Pin
Quick Facts
- Loaded with watermelon so this drink seriously keeps you hydrated
- A total hit at baby showers and kids' parties since there's no booze at all
- You can make the watermelon juice ahead and just shake with ice when it's party time
That salty spicy rim always steals the show. My aunt said it felt like a mini vacation the first time she tried it! I like to keep extra watermelon chunks nearby for guests to nibble while sipping.
How to Store
If you're prepping early, pop your strained watermelon juice into a closed pitcher in the fridge. It'll stay tasty for about a day but after that it'll separate a bit. Just give it a good swirl before pouring. Don’t rim your glasses until the very last minute for the best crunch and look.
Ingredient Swaps
If you can’t find Tajin, a sprinkle of chili powder mixed with a dash of salt works great too. Swap in honey or simple syrup if agave isn't handy. If you’ve only got frozen melon, toss it right in the blender without adding ice for an extra frosty sip.
How to Serve
Serve in lowball glasses and go wild with fun straws or umbrella picks for party vibes. Put out a plate of fruit or chips and some guacamole—for an instant summer bash. These drinks are perfect as a welcome sipper for any brunch or picnic too.
Save Pin
Make it Extra Fun
This watermelon margarita mocktail is a cheerful twist on the classic margarita, which got its start in Mexico. The original inspired this no-booze version so everyone at the table can join in and lift a colorful glass together. It's just right for Cinco de Mayo or any backyard summer bash.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What's the trick to getting the watermelon juice really smooth?
Once you blitz the watermelon, pour it through a fine strainer. That way you’ll catch all the bits and your drink comes out silky.
- → Why put Tajin on the rim anyway?
Tajin adds a little spice and tang, which makes the watermelon taste even sweeter and props up the lime’s brightness.
- → Is it possible to prep this drink ahead of time?
Sure thing. Blend and strain the watermelon first, stash in the fridge, and mix with lime and agave right before you're ready to pour.
- → Don’t have agave syrup—what else can I use?
No problem—reach for honey or just make some quick simple syrup if you’re out of agave.
- → Got a mixed crowd—how can I offer both boozy and booze-free?
If someone wants a spiked version, just pour in a little blanco tequila right into their glass. Easy!