Tart Key Lime Cucumber Margaritas

Left to my own devices, I would probably put cucumber in all of my cocktails. I'm obsessed with the fresh, grassy crispness that goes so well with all my favorite spirits--tequila being chief among them.

When it comes to margaritas, I like to keep mine strong and tart, with lots of tequila, just a touch of orange liqueur, and no additional sweetener. Key lime juice is very flavorful and naturally a bit sweeter than regular lime juice, so it works particularly well here, especially when paired with the cucumber. A touch of salt sprinkled directly into the drink at the end also helps give it an extra savory touch.

If you prefer a sweeter drink, simply increase the amount of Cointreau by another tablespoon or two until you reach your perfect balance--there are no wrong moves here!

I used my spiralizer to cut my cucumber into pretty thin ribbons; it's not necessary, but it looks pretty. You can also use a regular mandoline or even just a knife to get thin slices. And be sure to fill the glass up with them--they help to infuse the drink and add that crisp cucumber flavor.

Serve this up with a bowl of salty tortilla chips and your favorite salsa, and you'll be all set for warm weekends ahead.

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Key Lime Cucumber Margaritas
Makes 2 Cocktails (multiply as needed & can also be made in a pitcher)

Ingredients
1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
3/4 cup reposado tequila (1/2 cup for a lighter cocktail)
2 tablespoons Cointreau, Triple Sec or other orange liqueur (add a third tbsp if you'd like it a bit sweeter)
1/2 large cucumber, finely sliced
Ice
Flaky sea salt or chile salt (optional garnish)

Directions
Whisk together key lime juice, tequila, and orange liqueur. Fill two cocktail glasses with ice and cucumber slices, alternating so you have ice and cucumber equally layered. Divide margarita between both glasses and sprinkle with salt before serving immediately.