Watermelon-Jalapeño Margarita

By GadgetGirl

For a spicy garnish, combine salt and chili powder in a saucer. Dip rims of glasses in lime juice or water, and dip in salt mixture to coat. Simple Syrup provides the perfect balance of sweetness to cocktails and iced tea.

Ingredients

• 8 cups cubed watermelon
• 1 1/2 cups white tequila
• 1/2 cup orange liqueur (such as Triple Sec)
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup Simple Syrup
• 1 to 2 jalapeño peppers, thinly sliced
• Cracked ice
• Garnishes: fresh jalapeño slices, watermelon wedges
• Simple SyrupIngredients
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water

Preparation

Step 1

1. Puree watermelon, in batches, in a blender or food processor. Pour puree through a wire-mesh strainer, pressing with the back of a spoon; discard pulp and seeds.
2. Combine watermelon liquid, tequila, and next 4 ingredients in a large pitcher. Cover and chill 1 hour (longer for a stronger pepper flavor). Serve over ice. Garnish, if desired.

Simple Syrup
Combine sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring often, until sugar dissolves. Cover and chill.