I combined two of my favorite flavors to create cilantro lime margaritas: cilantro and tequila. Okay, kidding—cilantro and lime will always be my top flavor pairing. Now they’re joined in a refreshing cocktail that tastes like summer in a glass, even if it’s cold outside.
When my daughters had several snow days in a row, I treated myself to a couple of these margaritas. They’re easy to make and perfectly balanced—bright lime, herbaceous cilantro, a touch of sweetener and good silver tequila.
This cocktail grew out of my love for cilantro-lime foods. I adore cilantro lime rice and cilantro lime chicken, so turning that combination into a margarita felt like a natural next step. The result is fresh, lively and surprisingly subtle—the cilantro gives an earthy brightness without overpowering the drink.
Do I have an unhealthy obsession with cilantro-lime? Maybe. Do I care? Not at all. And yes, extra salt on the rim is a must for me.
I usually avoid pre-made margarita mixes when dining out because they can be loaded with calories and artificial flavors. The good news is you don’t need a mix to make a really great margarita at home—fresh ingredients are all it takes.
To Make This Cilantro Lime Margarita You Will Need:
- fresh cilantro
- fresh lime juice
- a sweetener (agave works well; honey is another option)
- silver tequila
- kosher salt for the rim (optional)
Start by placing a small handful of cilantro—about 2 tablespoons to 1/4 cup—into a cocktail shaker or large glass. I prefer to muddle the cilantro in the shaker so the herb infuses the juice without leaving too many leaves in the finished drink.
Pour in about 1 cup of freshly squeezed lime juice—roughly eight large, juicy limes. Use a muddler or the end of a wooden spoon to gently bruise the cilantro so it releases its flavor.
Add about 1/4 cup of agave syrup, or adjust the amount to your taste. Stir or shake the mixture until the ingredients are well combined.
If you like a salted rim, rub a lime wedge around the glass rim and dip it into a plate of kosher salt. Fill the glass with ice, add 1½ to 2 ounces (about 3 to 4 tablespoons) of silver tequila, and strain the cilantro-lime mixture into the glass to catch any stray leaves.
Garnish with extra lime wedges and a sprig of cilantro if you like, then serve and enjoy. The herb adds a gentle, savory note that complements the bright lime and clean tequila.
These cilantro lime margaritas are ideal for anyone who loves the classic cilantro-lime pairing. They’re simple, fresh and perfect for sharing with friends alongside chips and salsa or a casual meal.
Remember to drink responsibly and enjoy!
Enjoy! If you try this cilantro lime margarita, take a photo and share it—I’d love to see how yours turns out.
Cilantro Lime Margaritas
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves with stems
- 1 cup fresh lime juice, about 8 large and juicy limes
- 1/4 cup agave syrup, more or less to taste
- 4 ounces silver tequila, more or less to taste
Equipment
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muddler or wooden spoon
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cocktail shaker or large glass
Instructions
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Place the cilantro in a cocktail shaker or large glass. Add the lime juice and muddle gently until the cilantro is bruised and aromatic. Stir in the agave until combined.
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If desired, rub a lime wedge around the rim of each glass and dip the rim into kosher salt.
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Fill glasses with ice and add tequila (about 1½ to 2 ounces per glass). Strain the cilantro-lime mixture into the glasses to catch any leaves.
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Garnish with lime wedges and a sprig of cilantro, then serve immediately.
