Margaritas are known for their sharp citrusy base and salty finish, and adding kiwi to the mix gives this cocktail a modern, fruity upgrade. The kiwi brings both a pop of colour and a subtle tropical tartness that pairs beautifully with tequila and lime. The result is a drink that feels refreshing, exciting and just different enough to surprise your guests. You can make this kiwi margarita as a classic on the rocks cocktail or blend it with ice for a frozen version. Either way, it is a drink that delivers bold flavour in every sip. Make sure to use ripe kiwis that are slightly soft and have a vivid green colour on the inside. Their natural sweetness and tang will balance the lime perfectly.
Step 1: Blend the fresh kiwi base
Peel and slice two ripe kiwis and add them to a blender. Blend until completely smooth. If the puree seems too thick, add a spoonful of water to loosen it slightly. You should get about half a cup of thick green puree. Strain it if you want a smoother drink, or leave it as is for a more rustic feel with a bit of texture. The kiwi will add freshness, colour and that signature tartness to your margarita base.
Step 2: Mix with tequila and lime juice
In a cocktail shaker or mixing jug, combine the kiwi puree with one and a half shots of tequila, one shot of freshly squeezed lime juice and half a shot of triple sec or any other orange liqueur. Add a small pinch of salt and a few ice cubes. Shake everything together until chilled and mixed. This forms the heart of your kiwi margarita, a bright and boozy citrus blend with just enough fruit to keep things interesting.
Step 3: Prepare your glass with a salted rim
Take a short glass and rub the rim with a slice of lime. Then dip the rim into a plate of salt to coat the edge evenly. This classic margarita touch adds contrast to the drink and balances out the fruitiness with a bit of savoury edge. Fill the glass with fresh ice cubes and set aside while you finish mixing.
Step 4: Pour and garnish with flair
Strain the kiwi margarita mixture into the prepared glass. The drink should be a rich green colour and smell fresh and citrusy. Garnish with a thin slice of kiwi or lime on the rim and a small sprig of mint if you like. If you prefer a frozen margarita, you can blend all the ingredients with a handful of ice and pour directly into the salted glass for a slushy texture.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy cold
This kiwi margarita is best served cold and enjoyed fresh. The fruitiness, citrus and tequila come together in every sip, with the salted rim adding a pleasant contrast. You can easily double or triple the ingredients to make a pitcher for gatherings. For a spicier version, add a thin slice of green chilli or a few jalapeño rings to the shaker before mixing.
The kiwi margarita cocktail brings together everything you love about a classic margarita with a fresh twist of kiwi flavour. It is tangy, colourful and just the right mix of bold and balanced. Perfect for cocktail hours, festive dinners or laid back weekends, this easy five step recipe gives you a drink that stands out without needing too many ingredients. Whether you sip it slow or serve it frozen, this kiwi margarita is sure to bring some fun to your glass.