Dreaming of past vacations makes me want to create lots of different cocktails. Camping in the French Pyrenees reminds me of chocolate croissants each morning, and (not surprising) cilantro and tequila remind me of a week at a small bed and breakfast on the Sea of Cortez in Mexico. This cocktail was born there in my mind and created years later to pair with an evening of grilling with friends and needing cocktails to match the flavors of that evening. This match made in heaven comes in two forms below—one light and clean with pineapple sparkling water and the other juicy with pineapple juice. Try them both and let me know what you think!
Pineapple Cilantro Margaritas (Two Ways)
Each recipe serves 2 (in 10-ounce rocks glasses, filled halfway with ice)
Recipe 1: The Lighter One
¼ cup tequila
2 tablespoons pineapple-flavored sparkling water (Lark Loves Bubly Pineapple)
2 tablespoons agave cilantro syrup
1 tablespoon lime juice
Recipe 2: The Juicier One
¼ cup tequila
2 tablespoons 100% pineapple juice
2 tablespoons agave cilantro syrup
1 tablespoon lime juice
For the Agave Cilantro Syrup:
½ cups clean cilantro leaves
½ cups water
¼ cups agave nectar
Make the Agave Cilantro Syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine agave nectar and water. Boil over low heat, then turn down heat and add cilantro.
Simmer for 5 minutes on low, then cool for 5 minutes.
Remove cilantro. Strain over a glass measuring bowl until ready to use.
Make the margaritas:
Combine all ingredients in a small container (such as a mason jar), stir vigorously until the agave nectar dissolves, and serve. This drink is delicious served with a lot of ice and a few sprigs of cilantro in a rocks glass.
Purchase the Lark Cocktails book for dozens more great recipes! #livinglark
