Cocktail & Other Recipes By Spirit Tequila & Mezcal Cocktails

Tequila Limeade

By
Liquor.com
Liquor.com

Liquor.com has been serving drinks enthusiasts and industry professionals since 2009. Our writers are some of the most respected in the industry, and our recipes are contributed by bartenders who form a veritable "Who's Who" of the cocktail world.

Learn about Liquor.com's Editorial Process
Updated 05/31/23
Tequila Limeade, bright greenish-yellow, in highball glass with fresh mint sprig, on marble background

Liquor.com / Tim Nusog

There is little as refreshing as a cool limeade. A bit sweet, a bit tart and deeply rejuvenating, it’s a consummate summertime libation. Here, the classic combination of lime, sugar, and sparkling water are upgraded with the addition of tequila, heat via fresh jalapeños, and an herbal cilantro accent. This Tequila Limeade, from blogger and recipe developer Matt Armato, is an easy to make cocktail that adds serious kick to your summertime parties or afternoon porch hangs.

The Tequila Limeade is, essentially, an effervescent take on a Spicy Margarita. It starts a bit differently though, by muddling together fresh jalapeños, agave nectar, and cilantro. Depending on how much heat you want in your drink, you can remove the seeds from the jalapeño slices before adding them, to create a less spicy drink. Also keep in mind that jalapeños can vary wildly in terms of heat levels, so be sure to taste yours first before adding (and to wear gloves or carefully wash your hands after handling).

Once you’ve muddled your ingredients, it’s time to add the tequila and lime juice, after shaking them with ice to integrate before adding to the glass. Top the drink with ice and club soda, garnish with a straw and cilantro sprig, and you’ll be sipping pretty.

Ingredients

  • 8 cilantro leaves

  • 2 wheels fresh jalapeño

  • 1/2 ounce light agave nectar

  • 1 1/2 ounces blanco tequila

  • 3/4 ounce lime juice, freshly squeezed

  • 2 ounces soda water

  • Garnish: Cilantro sprig

Steps

  1. Add the agave nectar, cilantro leaves and jalapeno slices into a shaker and muddle gently.

  2. Add the tequila and lime juice, and ice, and shake until well-chilled.

  3. Double-strain into a Collins glass filled with ice.

  4. Top with the chilled soda water.

  5. Garnish with a cilantro sprig

What's the Best Type of Tequila for a Tequila Limeade?

A blanco tequila is recommended for the tequila limeade. Any brand you prefer will work, though as always, aim for 100% pure blue agave bottlings. Reposado and añejo tequilas have a tendency to throw off the bright flavors of herb and lime in this drink with their oak-forward notes, and are not ideal here.

Can I Skip the Cilantro?

Not everyone loves cilantro. For some people it tastes soapy and off-putting, so if you’re planning on making this for a group of people, be sure to check that everyone is on board with the leafy botanical. However, other aromatic herbs can easily be swapped in here for a delicious cocktail, like peppery Thai basil. Alternatively, you can completely omit the herbs from this recipe and still have a refreshing drink.