Why You’ll Love this Classic Margarita Recipe
You’re going to love this Classic Margarita recipe for its vibrant flavors and simplicity.
This drink captures the essence of a perfect balance between tartness and sweetness, making every sip invigorating and enjoyable. I appreciate how it’s easy to whip up, whether for a casual gathering or a special occasion.
The combination of zesty lime and a hint of salt elevates the experience, creating a fabulous flavor profile. Plus, you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.
Trust me, once you try this Classic Margarita, it’ll become your go-to drink for any celebration!
Ingredients of Classic Margarita
When it comes to making a unique twist on the classic margarita, the ingredients play a vital role in crafting that delightful experience. In this Unique Red Wine Margarita recipe, we’re merging the traditional elements of a margarita with the rich and bold flavors of red wine.
It might sound a bit unconventional, but trust me, this unexpected combination can lead to an exciting new favorite. So, grab your blender and let’s plunge into what you’ll need to whip up this innovative drink.
Ingredients for Unique Red Wine Margarita:
- 2 (28 ounce) cans San Marzano peeled tomatoes, crushed
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 4 large garlic cloves, pressed
- 1/2 cup dry red wine
- 1 tablespoon coconut sugar (or to taste)
- 1 sprig basil
- 1 sprig oregano
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Now, before you rush off to the store, let’s think about the ingredients a little more. You might be wondering why we’re using crushed tomatoes and red wine in a margarita recipe.
Well, it’s all about elevating that classic flavor while adding a unique depth. The tomatoes bring a fresh, vibrant taste that balances beautifully with the acidity of the lime (which you can add to your margarita mix).
The red wine adds warmth and richness, creating a margarita that’s perfect for those who enjoy a more robust flavor. And don’t be shy with the spices; a pinch of red pepper flakes can really kick things up a notch.
How to Make Classic Margarita

Alright, let’s plunge into making this Unique Red Wine Margarita. It’s a little different from your standard margarita, but that’s what makes it so exciting.
We’re going to start with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once that oil is nice and hot, toss in 1 cup of finely chopped red onion. You want to sauté it until it becomes translucent, which should take about 6 minutes. Just keep an eye on it—nobody wants burnt onions, right? And while you’re at it, the delicious smell will probably have you drooling, so don’t say I didn’t warn you.
Next up, it’s time for the garlic! Add in 4 large pressed garlic cloves and sauté for just 1 minute. Trust me, you want to keep it brief here; burnt garlic is a whole different story and not the kind of flavor we’re going for.
Now, pour in 1/2 cup of dry red wine. Raise the heat to medium-high and let it cook until most of that liquid evaporates. We’re talking about 6 to 7 minutes of bubbling goodness. It’ll start to smell divine.
Then, it’s time to add the star players: the 2 (28-ounce) cans of crushed San Marzano tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of coconut sugar, and a sprig each of basil and oregano. Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and for a little kick, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
Now, cover that saucepan and let it simmer for an hour. Yes, an hour. This is where the magic happens. If you’re like me, you might use this time to clean up or contemplate life choices—like why you didn’t make two batches.
After an hour, uncover it, remove the herb sprigs, and then blend it all up until it’s smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, a regular blender will work just fine, just be careful with the hot mixture.
Once blended, let it cook for another 15 minutes to thicken up. And there you have it, a Unique Red Wine Margarita sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing. You can serve it as a dip or use it as a sauce over your favorite dishes. Cheers to trying something new!
Classic Margarita Substitutions & Variations
While classic margaritas hold a special place in my heart, experimenting with substitutions and variations can elevate them to new heights.
For instance, swap traditional tequila for mezcal to introduce a smoky flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using flavored liqueurs, like elderflower or orange, for a unique twist.
You can also substitute lime juice with fresh citrus like grapefruit or blood orange for a vibrant taste.
Don’t forget about the salt rim—consider chili powder or even Tajín for an extra kick.
These simple changes make each margarita experience delightful and invigorating!
What to Serve with Classic Margarita
What pairs perfectly with a classic margarita? I love serving it alongside freshly made guacamole and crispy tortilla chips. The creamy avocado and zesty lime complement the margarita’s flavors beautifully.
Grilled shrimp tacos are another fantastic option; they add a delightful smoky element that enhances the drink. For a heartier choice, consider fajitas—sizzling peppers and onions with marinated steak or chicken are irresistible.
And don’t forget about a rejuvenating salsa, whether it’s mango or pico de gallo; they elevate the experience. Each bite enhances the margarita’s vibrant taste and makes for a perfect gathering around the table. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
When planning your next gathering with classic margaritas and delicious pairings like guacamole or grilled shrimp tacos, keep a few additional tips in mind to elevate the experience.
First, chill your glasses for a revitalizing touch. Use fresh lime juice; it makes a world of difference!
If you want to get creative, try infusing your tequila with fruits or herbs. For a fun twist, consider rimming the glasses with chili powder instead of salt.
Finally, don’t forget to set up a DIY margarita bar with various garnishes. Your guests will love customizing their drinks, making your gathering unforgettable!