Watermelon Basil Margarita
A refreshing summer twist on the margarita. Juicy watermelon and fragrant basil meet tequila and lime for a cocktail that’s bright, herbaceous, and perfectly balanced.
Because every drink deserves a beautiful moment.
Ingredients
2 oz reposado tequila
1 oz lime juice
¾ oz agave
2–3 chunks watermelon
2–3 fresh basil leaves
Instructions
Add lime juice, watermelon chunks, and basil leaves to the base of a shaker.
Gently muddle to release the juices and oils.
Add tequila and agave syrup.
Fill with ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
Strain into a salt-rimmed glass over fresh ice.
Garnish with a basil sprig or watermelon wedge.
Notes from the Bar
Reposado vs. Blanco
Blanco tequila will keep this cocktail ultra-light and crisp, but reposado adds depth, smoothness, and subtle oak that elevates the watermelon and basil beautifully. We prefer reposado here, but both work.
Basil vs. Mint
Basil adds an herbal, slightly peppery twist, but you can swap in mint for a more traditional flavor profile.
Salt Rim Upgrade
Mix a little lime zest into your salt rim for extra brightness that plays well with the basil.
Fresh Fruit Counts
Ripe, juicy watermelon makes all the difference—if your melon isn’t sweet enough, add a touch more agave.
Batch Option
This cocktail scales beautifully. Blend watermelon juice in advance and muddle basil into the pitcher just before serving.
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Make It a Date Nite
This cocktail is part of something bigger for us. It's a ritual we return to week after week.
Each week, we create a Date Nite designed around one drink, one thoughtful menu, and the feeling of slowing down together. The kind of night where the table is set with intention, the music hums softly in the background, and the evening unfolds without rushing.
For this Date Nite, we’ve paired a cocktail with a cozy, make-ahead-friendly menu, so you can enjoy the process without spending the whole night in the kitchen. We also include little touches we love like timing notes, a head start option, and a playlist to set the mood. Feel to pair the meal with any of our cocktails.
It’s not about perfection. It’s about presence. And turning an ordinary night at home into something that feels quietly special.
Each Date Nite includes a curated menu, cocktail pairing and a playlist, as well as another thoughtful extras like make-ahead tips, leftover ideas or table talk prompts to carry the night.
Kevin & Kate
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