"This is the non-frozen version of my watermelon margaritas. These are so amazing and refreshing on hot summer days. To make a virgin version, omit the tequila and use a lemon-lime soda."
1Bring 1/2 cup sugar, water, and orange zest in a small saucepan to boil, stirring constantly. Simmer until sugar is dissolved, about 3 minutes. Remove simple syrup from heat and allow to cool completely.
2Place watermelon in a blender or food processor. Pulse until pureed.
3Stir watermelon puree into a large pitcher with simple syrup, tequila, and lime juice.
4Place a small amount of salt or sugar into a saucer. Rub edge of margarita glasses with a lime wedge to moisten. Lightly dip the rim of the glass into the saucer to rim the glass; tap off excess salt or sugar.
5Fill rimmed glasses with crushed ice; pour margarita mixture into glasses and garnish with lime wedges to serve.
Footnotes
Cook's Notes:
Fill sugar or salt rimmed glasses with crushed ice, then pour margarita mixture over top. Garnish with a lime wedge.
To make a frozen version, crush 1.5 cups of ice in a high-quality blender. Add watermelon, tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup and blend until smooth.