Given its worldwide popularity, it’s no surprise there’s a National Margarita Day, to be celebrated this year on February 22.
The margarita—widely considered the official drink of having fun—is a tequila-based cocktail said to have originated in Tijuana, Mexico, in the 1930s. Mixologists and history buffs trace its origin to the Prohibition era, when Americans drifted over the border for alcohol where a classic brandy cocktail called the Daisy (Margarita is Spanish for “daisy”) was remade with tequila . The rest, as they say, is history.
Today, the margarita is the most common tequila-based cocktail in the U.S., a growing favorite around the globe, and the overwhelming drink of choice in Los Cabos. Imbibed by millions throughout the year, the margarita—generally shaken and served on the rocks with salt on the rim of the glass—is a simple but splendid mix of tequila, triple sec (orange liqueur), and lime juice, and the perfect combination of sweet and salty, sour and bitter.
Consumed in moderation, you won’t get a hangover drinking tequila, especially if you use high-quality, 100% blue agave tequila. This quintessentially Mexican spirit, the oldest distilled spirit in North America, contains no carbohydrates or sugar and has fewer calories than wine, beer, or cider. Studies show that tequila helps lower blood sugar levels, reduces pain and inflammation, lowers cholesterol, aids in weight loss, improves gastrointestinal health, and improves blood flow.
For National Margarita Day 2023, Pueblo Bonito Resorts asked Gustavo Eduardo Estrada Ortiz, mixologist at Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos Beach Resort, to share his Emerald Green Margarita recipe, which can double as the drink of choice on St. Patrick’s Day (March 17). His quaffable concoction, green as Ireland, is a little spicy and very refreshing.
Recipe ingredients for one Margarita are:
- Reposado tequila 2 oz.
- Fresh lime juice 1 oz.
- Natural simple syrup 1 oz.
- Triple sec 1 oz.
- Kiwi 1 piece
- Cherry 1 piece
- Tajin spice. 1 teaspoon
- Ice
Prepare the glass
- Cut a slice of lemon and place it on the rim of your glass. (Gustavo recommends an old-fashioned or similar short cocktail glass).
- Put tajin (a blend of mild chili peppers, lime and sea salt) on a plate and place on the rim of the glass
- Cut a slice of kiwi and a slice of cherry, set aside.
Combine the ingredients
A cocktail shaker is ideal, although you can use any container that you can close and shake.
- Add half of the kiwi to the shaker and mash for 30 seconds.
- Pour the tequila, lime juice, simple syrup, triple sec, and ice into the shaker and shake for 10 seconds. If using a cocktail shaker, shake until it is cold on the outside.
- Place a few ice cubes in the glass, pour the margarita over the ice.
- Spear the slices of kiwi and cherry on a toothpick for a garnish.
Note: Reposado tequila has “rested” in oak barrels for several months, mellowing the spirit and giving it a pale straw color. Gustavo says Reposado tequila accentuates the cocktail’s unique flavors.
Finally, two toasts are appropriate when drinking Pueblo Bonito’s Emerald Green Margarita: Salud (Spanish for good health); and Slainte (pronounced SLAN-cha, Irish Gaelic for cheers).
###
About Pueblo Bonito Golf & Spa Resorts
Pueblo Bonito Golf & Spa Resorts include eight award-winning properties in two destinations, Cabo San Lucas and Mazatlán, all offering luxury all-inclusive options, and coming in 2023 to San Miguel de Allende. Each of the properties has its own personality, design, and ambiance, yet all share the same high level of impeccable quality and distinguished atmosphere.
In Cabo San Lucas, the adults-only Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort is the ideal setting for a romantic getaway, while Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Golf & Spa Resort, with its large, all ocean-view suites, is perfect for families.
Pueblo Bonito Rosé Resort & Spa and Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos, both located on El Médano beach, have the best to offer vacationers looking to be right in the middle of all the Cabo action.
In Mazatlán, the elegant jewel Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort & Spa overlooks the Pacific Ocean and a private beach, while the charming Pueblo Bonito Mazatlán, is located in the famous Golden Zone.
The Pueblo Bonito Vantage San Miguel de Allende is the first property to carry the brand’s new upscale flag, intended for the discerning, experienced traveler who seeks superior service, high-end design, and unique experiences.
Occupying a prime location just minutes from the historic downtown, the 111-room hotel features a gourmet restaurant, including a rooftop bar with a breathtaking view of the iconic pink sandstone cathedral. In addition to banquet space for groups and conventions, a beautiful grass area for weddings and events also overlooks the magnificent church.
The resorts are great for family vacations and romantic getaways. For more information visit www.pueblobonito.com, find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pueblobonitoresort and follow us on Instagram @pueblobonito.
