Watermelon Basil Margarita

If you're craving something refreshing, herbal and just a little unexpected, this Watermelon Basil Margarita might be your new go-to. This perfect summer cocktail blends the sweet flavor of fresh watermelon juice with earthy basil leaves, a splash of lime juice and silver tequila for a twist on the classic margarita that’s bright, bold, and totally sippable.

Whether you’re making a batch for happy hour or just need a breezy solo drink, this margarita is quick, easy, and delivers that fresh-picked feel. Pair it with spicy appetizers or enjoy it while watching the sunset from your patio.

Jump to:

• Why You Will Love This Watermelon Basil Margarita
• Ingredients
• Substitutions and Variations
• How to Make a Watermelon Basil Margarita
• More Recipes You Will Love
• How to Serve a Watermelon Basil Margarita
• What to Serve with a Watermelon Basil Margarita
• Top Tips
• Frequently Asked Questions About Watermelon Basil Margaritas
• More Recipes You Will Love
• Watermelon Basil Margarita Recipe

Take your next party menu up a notch with these watermelon-inspired cocktails: Watermelon Sour, Watermelon Vodka Cocktail, Watermelon Punch, Watermelon Mojito, Watermelon Sangria, and Watermelon Moscow Mule. We make a big of our Fresh Watermelon Juice recipe to have on hand for most of them!

Why You Will Love This Watermelon Basil Margarita

• Fresh and Vibrant: Fresh watermelon juice and basil leaves make it feel extra summery.
• Simple Ingredients: No triple sec needed — just tequila, margarita mix, and optional simple syrup.
• Quick to Make: Comes together in under 5 minutes in a cocktail shaker.
• Customizable Sweetness: Add agave nectar or simple syrup depending on your watermelon.
• Pretty and Pink: A naturally colorful drink that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

A quick trip to the grocery store is all you need to whip up this simple cocktail.

See the recipe card below for the exact quantities of each ingredient.

• Basil Leaves: Adds an earthy, slightly sweet herbal note that balances the drink.
• Silver Tequila: The clean flavor of Blanco tequila keeps it light and refreshing.
• Watermelon Juice: Use fresh watermelon juice for the best flavor (store-bought works too).
• Margarita Mix: Adds tang and rounds out the citrus profile.
• Simple Syrup: Optional, in case your watermelon isn’t as sweet as you'd like.
• Lime Juice: Used for rimming the glass and boosting brightness.
• Salt: Optional, but sea salt on the rim of the glass enhances flavor.

For this fun cocktail recipe, you'll want to have on hand a cocktail shaker, muddler, shot glass/jigger, measuring cups and spoons.

Substitutions and Variations

Want to switch things up next time you make this cocktail? Try these ideas for a fresh twist.

• Agave Nectar: Swap in agave for simple syrup for a natural sweetener that pairs well with tequila.
• No Margarita Mix: Use 1 oz lime juice + ½ oz simple syrup if you don’t have margarita mix on hand.
• Frozen Margarita: Blend everything with ice for a frozen version.
• Basil Swap: If basil isn’t your thing, mint works well too.
• Spicy Twist: Add a slice of jalapeño when muddling the basil for a subtle heat.
• Watermelon Juice Substitute: Store-bought juice works well in a pinch; you just may want to adjust the recipe slightly as it will be sweeter.

How to Make a Watermelon Basil Margarita

See how easy it was to whip up this quick cocktail.

If rimming your glass, rub some lime juice along the edge of the glass and dip in salt.

Add basil leaves to a cocktail shaker and muddle about 5 times to release the basil oils.

Fill cocktail shaker about halfway with ice and then pour in tequila, watermelon juice and margarita mix. If adding simple syrup pour that in too.

Shake until chilled then strain in glass of ice.

Hint: Muddle lightly. Basil is delicate — muddling just 4–5 times is enough to release flavor without bitterness.

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How to Serve a Watermelon Basil Margarita

This cocktail is as pretty as it is refreshing, so presentation matters — just a few simple touches can make it feel extra special.

• Shaken: Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice to properly chill and blend the flavors before straining.
• Glass: Serve in a rocks glass (also called an old-fashioned glass) for a modern, elegant presentation.
• Garnishes: Fresh basil sprig and watermelon cubes or a wedge makes it instantly eye-catching. For a classic margarita twist add a salted rim or Tajin rim for a punchy flavor and contrast.

What to Serve with a Watermelon Basil Margarita

• Guacamole and Chips
• Mini Cheese Balls
• Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Sausages
• Crispy Fluffy Pancakes
• BBQ Baked Beans (Slow Cooker)
• Spicy Shrimp Tacos
• Watermelon Feta Salad

Top Tips

• Use Fresh Juice: Whenever possible, blend and strain fresh watermelon for the best flavor.
• Taste Before Adding Simple Syrup: Some watermelon is super sweet and won’t need any simple syrup, always taste first; store-bought will give additional sweetness too.
• Chill Your Glass: Pop your serving glasses in the freezer while you prep to keep things extra refreshing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Watermelon Basil Margaritas

Do you have questions about our watermelon basil margarita recipe?

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