This is a refreshing, summery spin on a margarita. “Muddling” is a fancy term for smashing vegetables and herbs to release their juices and essential oils. In this case you smash a few pieces of cucumber and a sprig of cilantro in a cocktail shaker before adding the alcohol. You can buy a drinks muddler designed specifically for the task, or you can just use the end of a wooden spoon to do the mashing. Shaking the cocktail vigorously for at least 4 seconds is crucial, not just to cool down the drink and incorporate the ingredients, but also to melt a little of the ice so it dilutes the drink slightly and brings all the flavors into balance.
Recipe information
Yield
Makes 1 margarita
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
To salt the rim of your glass, fill a shallow bowl with water. On a small plate, pour a circle of salt. Dip the rim of a rocks glass or margarita glass in the water, then dip it into the salt and set it aside.
Step 2
In the bottom of a cocktail shaker, muddle the 4 cucumber slices with 1 cilantro sprig until the cucumber releases most of its juices and the cilantro is smashed and fragrant. Add the ice cubes, tequila, lime juice, agave syrup, and triple sec. Cover and shake vigorously for 4 seconds. Pour the drink, including the ice, into the glass. Serve the margarita garnished with the remaining cucumber slice and cilantro sprig.
Recipe notes
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