Lavender Margarita Recipe: Cocktail for Relaxation & Refreshment

I’ll admit it, I’m crazy for a good margarita. Tacos, enchiladas, any Cinco de Mayo excuse to whip up a pitcher, and I’m there. But recently, I’ve become utterly obsessed with a twist on the classic: the lavender margarita.

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Lavender Margarita

Now, I know what you’re thinking. Lavender? In a drink? But hear me out. This isn’t your grandma’s lavender-flavored potpourri. This is a refreshing, light, and mild flavor explosion that’ll have your tastebuds singing.

To those individuals who love lavender in food and flowers, I say, “You get it!” And for those who can’t stand it, I urge you to reconsider. I used to disagree with lavender in foods and drinks, but this margarita changed my mind.

READ: Grapefruit and Rum Cocktail

Mastering the Art of Culinary Lavender

The secret lies in the lavender simple syrup. You simply steep dried culinary lavender in sugar and water, then strain out the flowers. Straining is key; trust me, I made the mistake of skipping this step once, and the resulting lavender flavor was overpowering.

Once you’ve got your simple syrup, the rest is easy. Combine tequila, sparkling water, lime juice, and a generous splash of lavender simple syrup. Shake it up, pour it over ice, and voila! A delicate, floral twist on the classic margarita. Cheers!

This May, while researching margarita-themed recipes, I stumbled upon Hola Jalapeño’s blog, which featured a captivating lavender margarita recipe. As a longtime fan of lavender-infused treats from local Pittsburgh tea shops in the Strip District, I was instantly intrigued. I embarked on a nerdy quest, driving all over town to find the perfect culinary lavender to recreate this unique concoction. After numerous attempts, I finally achieved the ideal balance of flavors, and I haven’t looked back since.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a fun twist on the traditional margarita. If you enjoyed the Elderflower Margarita (made with St Germain) or the Fresh and Spicy Pineapple Margarita, you’ll absolutely adore this lavender version. The floral notes of the lavender create a distinct, almost exotic flavor that sets it apart. It’s a unique, sophisticated spin on a beloved classic.

Nutritional Information

Lavender Margarita Recipe

Recipe by Whisk and NibbleCourse: DrinksCuisine: Mexican

Servings

2

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Chill Time (for Syrup)

30

minutes

Calories

178

kcal

Steeping Time for the Syrup

30

minutes

Total time

1

hour 

10

minutes

A floral twist on the classic margarita, infused with homemade lavender simple syrup for a sophisticated summer sip.

Ingredients
For the Lavender Margarita:

• 2-3 tablespoons homemade lavender-infused simple syrup

• 30 ml premium silver tequila (like Altos Plata)

• Freshly squeezed juice from half a lime

• Chilled sparkling water or club soda

• To Make the Lavender Simple Syrup:

• 1 cup filtered water

• 1 cup granulated cane sugar

• 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender buds

Directions

• Craft the Lavender Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Reduce the heat to a simmer and add the lavender. Let it steep for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Strain the syrup through a fine mesh strainer, discarding the lavender buds.
• Mix Your Margarita: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the desired amount of lavender syrup (start with 2 tablespoons and adjust to taste), tequila, and lime juice. Shake vigorously until well chilled.
• Assemble and Enjoy: Strain the margarita into a chilled glass. Top with sparkling water and garnish with a sprig of lavender or a lime wedge. Sip, savor, and enjoy the enchanting flavors!

Notes

• Feel free to adjust the amount of lavender simple syrup to suit your taste preferences. Start with 2 tablespoons and gradually increase until you find your perfect balance.
• For a visually appealing presentation, garnish your margarita with a sprig of fresh lavender, edible flowers, or a lime wedge.
• If you don’t have sparkling water, club soda or even a splash of lemon-lime soda can be used as substitutes.
• For a stronger lavender flavor, try steeping the lavender buds in the tequila for a few hours before making the syrup.

Perfect Pairings for Your Lavender Margarita

The lavender margarita’s delicate floral notes and bright citrus flavors make it a versatile companion for a wide range of culinary delights. Here are some ideas to elevate your next gathering:

• Grilled Seafood: The herbal essence of lavender beautifully complements the smoky char of grilled fish or shrimp, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors.
• Light Salads: Think of fresh greens tossed with goat cheese, berries, and a drizzle of honey vinaigrette – the lavender margarita’s sweetness and acidity will cut through the richness of the cheese and enhance the natural sweetness of the fruits.
• Fruity Desserts: Indulge in a slice of lemon tart, a berry crumble, or a creamy panna cotta. The lavender’s floral notes will dance playfully with the fruit’s natural sweetness, while the tequila’s warmth adds a subtle depth to the dessert’s overall profile.

READ: Mudslide Recipe

Variations

Don’t stop at the margarita! The enchanting allure of lavender extends beyond tequila. Explore these delightful variations:

• Cucumber Lavender Margarita: Embrace the refreshing coolness of cucumber by muddling a few slices into your lavender-infused margarita. Garnish with a cucumber ribbon for an extra touch of elegance.
• Raspberry Lavender Margarita: Indulge in the vibrant sweetness of raspberries by blending them into your lavender margarita. A sprinkle of crushed raspberries adds a delightful textural contrast.
• Lemon Lavender Margarita: Enhance the citrusy notes of a classic margarita with a splash of lavender syrup. A lemon twist adds a bright and zesty touch.
• Blackberry Lavender Margarita: Embrace the rich, earthy flavors of blackberries by muddling a few into your lavender margarita. A blackberry garnish provides a burst of color and flavor.

Feel free to experiment with different fruits, herbs, and liqueurs to create your own signature lavender-infused concoction. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination.

Tips for a Perfect Lavender Margarita:

• Use high-quality lavender: Choose culinary-grade lavender buds to ensure the best flavor. Avoid using potpourri or scented lavender, as they may contain harmful chemicals.
• Make your own lavender syrup: Freshly made lavender syrup offers superior flavor and control over sweetness. Simply combine lavender buds, sugar, and water, simmer until the sugar dissolves, then strain.
• Chill your glasses: Properly chilled glasses enhance the flavor and presentation of your cocktail.
• Garnish with flair: A well-chosen garnish adds a touch of elegance and visual interest. Consider using fresh lavender sprigs, edible flowers, or citrus peels.
• Experiment with variations: Don’t be afraid to try different fruits, herbs, and liqueurs to create your own unique lavender margarita.

A Note on Lavender’s Calming Properties

Beyond its delightful taste, lavender has long been associated with potential calming and relaxing effects. In aromatherapy, lavender’s scent is often used to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. While some individuals find that sipping a lavender-infused beverage can contribute to a sense of tranquility, it’s important to note that these effects can vary from person to person.

Important Note for Pregnant Women

While this lavender margarita recipe is a delightful treat, it’s crucial to remember that alcohol should be avoided during pregnancy. If you’re expecting, you can still enjoy the flavors of lavender by creating a non-alcoholic version. Simply omit the tequila and replace it with additional sparkling water or a non-alcoholic spirit alternative. You can also experiment with adding a splash of muddled fruit or a squeeze of fresh citrus for extra depth and complexity. Read this study by National Institute of Health!

Remember: Prioritizing your health and the well-being of your baby is paramount.

READ: Sangria Blanca

Conclusion

Whether you’re a lavender enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this Lavender Margarita is sure to become your new warm-weather favorite. It’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most unexpected pairings can create the most delightful experiences.

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FAQs About Lavender Margaritas

Does lavender go well with tequila?

Absolutely! The Lavender Infused Simple Syrup, combined with the citrus notes of the lime and the smooth tequila, creates an exceptional summer cocktail.

Is lavender safe for cocktails?

Yes, indeed! Lavender is a versatile herb that pairs beautifully with various base spirits and liqueurs. It adds a unique floral note that complements many gin cocktails and works well with other floral components. You can use lavender both fresh or dried for your drinks.

Is a margarita drink alcoholic?

Yes, typically a margarita served on the rocks or frozen contains alcohol. However, there are margaritas with various flavors, such as strawberry, raspberry, or mango, and the alcohol content can vary. A virgin margarita has 0%, while a super-sized margarita can have up to 55% alcohol. The average alcohol content falls between 18-25%.

What is margarita mix made of?

Margarita Mix, or Homemade Margarita Mix, generally consists of lime juice, sugar, salt, and sometimes Cointreau or citric acid. The syrup base is often a lime cordial made by combining lime and sugar, then heated without additional water to create a concentrated lime flavor.

What mixes best with lavender?

The aroma note of lavender blends wonderfully with Orange, Tangerine, Lemongrass, Lime, Mandarin, Bergamot, Eucalyptus, and Peppermint. You can explore interesting combinations like Lavender & Bergamot for a light, bright blend.

What flavors complement lavender?

With its sweet, fragrant flavor, lavender complements a wide range of foods, both sweet and savory. Think of strawberries, blueberries, pears, lemon, orange, honey, sage, rosemary, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and even chocolate.

What does lavender taste like?

Lavender has a distinctive taste that’s primarily floral, with subtle hints of mint and rosemary – plants it’s related to. It’s often used as a flavoring in spring desserts and beverages. Dried lavender and edible flowers from the lavender plant are commonly used in culinary creations.