Name: Aperol Margarita
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 4 oz of Tequila; 2 oz of Aperol; 2 oz of lime juice - freshly squeezed for the best results; 1 oz of agave syrup - add more or less depending on your sweet tooth; Ice; Salt - for rimming the glasses; Orange slices and lime wheels - for garnishing

We’re taking the luscious layers of a traditional margarita – sharp lime, smooth Tequila, and a salty rim – and adding a touch of Italian flair to it with the introduction of Aperol. This Italian aperitif brings an incredibly appealing bitterness and a beautifully bold orange hue. It’s a match made in mixology heaven, and you’re just a few ingredients away from crafting this prime cocktail yourself.

So grab your shaker and prepare your taste buds for the unveiling of an undeniably refreshing and tantalisingly tart Aperol Margarita. It’s happy hour somewhere, and we’re just getting started.

Table of Contents

How to make Aperol Margarita

An Aperol Margarita is a variation of the classic Margarita cocktail that incorporates Aperol, an Italian orange-flavored aperitif, into the mix. The traditional Margarita is typically made with Tequila, triple sec (orange liqueur), and lime juice and served in a salt-rimmed glass.

Ingredients

4 oz of Tequila
2 oz of Aperol
2 oz of lime juice – freshly squeezed for the best results
1 oz of agave syrup – add more or less depending on your sweet tooth
Ice
Salt – for rimming the glasses
Orange slices and lime wheels – for garnishing

Instructions

Prepare your glass: Take your margarita glass and run a lime wedge around the edge before dipping it into a plate of salt. This prepares your glass for the incoming margarita magic!
Mix the cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, add ice, Tequila, Aperol, lime juice, and agave syrup. This is where the real magic happens. Close the shaker and give it a good shake until it’s well mixed.
Serve: Fill your prepared glass with ice. Strain the content of the shaker into the glass.
Garnish: Finally, garnish with an orange slice and lime wheel. Voila! Your Aperol Margarita is ready to be savoured.

Tips:

If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, add a touch more agave syrup.
Adjust the Aperol to preference. If you’re new to Aperol, you might want to start with a little less, as it is fairly bitter.
If you want to wow your guests or yourself, try rimming your glass with a mix of salt and zested orange peel. It adds an extra boost of flavour, ticking all the boxes on the bitter, sour, salty and sweet quadrant of our taste buds.

What to serve with?

Pairing the right foods with your Aperol Margarita can enhance your cocktail hour experience effortlessly. Here are some delicious appetizers and dishes that complement the bittersweet, citrusy goodness of your newly discovered beverage.

1. Guacamole and Chips

The creaminess of fresh homemade guacamole and the crunch of tortilla chips set the stage perfectly for your Aperol Margarita. The harmonious contrast of textures and flavors elevate the entire experience, making it a classic cocktail hour favorite.

2. Shrimp Ceviche

The citrusy punch of shrimp ceviche complements the zesty profile of your Aperol Margarita, making them a delightful duo. The bright flavors work wonders together, heightening the tang in both the cocktail and the appetizer.

3. Grilled Vegetables

Tap into the smoky, charred flavors of grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and red onions. The bite of the bitter Aperol pairs beautifully with the slightly sweet caramelized veggies.

4. Crostini with Mediterranean toppings

Lightly toasted crostini topped with bruschetta, olive tapenade, or whipped feta is ideal for munching alongside your Aperol Margarita. The cocktail brightens and balances the rich and robust flavors of the Mediterranean-inspired toppings.

5. Caprese Salad Skewers

Combine the sophistication of Italy with your drink by serving caprese salad skewers. Thread cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and bite-sized mozzarella pieces onto skewers before drizzling them with a balsamic glaze. The freshness of this appetizer perfectly complements the bittersweet Aperol Margarita.

6. Citrus-Marinated Olives

Another tangy accompaniment to your Margarita is a homemade citrus-marinated olive medley. Marinate olives in a mix of orange, lemon, and herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley. The citrusy elements resonate with the drink’s nuances, providing a savory and spirited experience.

7. Spicy Tapas

The Aperol Margarita’s bitterness and acidity partner well with spicy dishes like Spanish patatas bravas or gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp). The zingy notes in the drink simultaneously cool and highlight the fiery elements in these scrumptious tapas.

Final Thoughts

Even when it comes to cuisine, there’s a wide range of delightful pairings that complement every sip of this enticing cocktail mix, from the comfort of guacamole and chips to the gourmet appeal of Caprese salad skewers. Your taste buds are in for an absolute delight, each time you serve up this Aperol Margarita.

More Drink Recipes: