When I’m craving something bright and refreshing, a Mango Lime Margarita is usually what pops into my head. This recipe brings together sweet mango and tart lime with tequila, making a simple, tasty cocktail you can whip up at home.
The fresh fruit flavors just scream summer or lazy afternoons with friends. I get a burst of fruit and citrus in every sip, and it’s honestly easy to throw together—just a few quick steps.
I like to keep the ingredients handy, so I can mix one up without much fuss. If you’re after a tropical spin on the classic margarita, this one really does the trick.
Mango Lime Margarita Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger (for measuring)
- Strainer
- Citrus juicer
- Spoon
- Small plate for salt
- Margarita or rocks glass
Ingredients
Basic ingredient list:
- 2 oz silver tequila
- 1 oz triple sec or orange liqueur
- 2 oz mango nectar or 1/2 cup pureed mango
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup optional, to taste
- Ice cubes
- Kosher salt for rim, optional
- Lime wedge and mango slices for garnish
Instructions
- First up, I prep the glass—rub a lime wedge around the rim, dip it in salt. Totally optional, but I love the salty kick.
- Then, fill the shaker with ice. In goes tequila, triple sec, mango nectar (or puree), lime juice, and simple syrup if you want it sweeter.
- I shake it for at least 15 seconds, so it’s really cold and mixed. Using a strainer, I pour everything into the glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with a lime wedge or a mango slice. If I’m in the mood for frozen, I just toss everything (plus ice) in the blender instead of shaking.
Notes
Must Have Ingredients
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Tasting Notes
First sip, and the citrus aroma from the fresh lime really jumps out. It mixes with the sweet smell of ripe mango—kind of irresistible, honestly.
The color is this cheerful, sunny orange. Makes you want to dive right in.
The flavor comes through smooth, sweet, and a little tart. Mango gives a gentle fruitiness, not too strong, and the lime adds a crisp, refreshing kick.
The tequila’s there, but it doesn’t overpower anything—just a gentle warmth in the background.
Texture and Sensations:
- Smooth and just a bit thick from the mango puree
- Clean, tangy finish from the lime juice
- A little salty if you rim the glass
I get a nice balance of sweet, sour, and a hint of bitterness from the citrus zest. The drink feels cool and light—perfect when it’s hot out.
This cocktail doesn’t come off as heavy at all. It’s just refreshing, glass after glass. The mango and lime together? Honestly, it’s a combo I never get tired of.
Substitute
Sometimes, I just don’t have every ingredient for a Mango Lime Margarita. There are a few swaps I’ll try to get close to the original flavor.
If I’m missing fresh mango, I’ll grab frozen mango or even some store-bought mango puree. Canned mango nectar can work, too—though honestly, I cut back on the sugar when I go that route.
No lime juice? I’ll squeeze in lemon juice instead. It’s not exactly the same, but it keeps things tasting bright.
If I’m skipping alcohol, I leave out the tequila and pour in club soda or sparkling water. Sometimes I’ll use those non-alcoholic tequila alternatives if I want a bolder flavor, but that’s rare.
If I want it sweeter, I’ll reach for honey, agave syrup, or simple syrup instead of plain sugar. Sometimes I just eyeball it.
No citrus zest? I’ll skip it or splash in a tiny bit of bottled lime flavor, if I even have that around.