Charred Watermelon Margarita with Tajin Rim

Heat a grill to high and lay the watermelon slabs directly on the grate until deeply charred and caramelized on both sides, about 3 minutes per side.

Serves 4

Ingredients

• 4 cups watermelon, cut into thick slabs
• 8 oz blanco tequila
• 4 oz orange liqueur
• 3 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz agave syrup
• 1 cup ice
• Tajin seasoning, for the rim
• Lime wedges, for the rim
• Fresh mint, to garnish

Instructions

1. Heat a grill to high and lay the watermelon slabs directly on the grate until deeply charred and caramelized on both sides, about 3 minutes per side.
2. Let the grilled watermelon cool slightly, then cut away the rind and blend the smoky flesh until smooth; strain if you prefer a cleaner pour.
3. Run a lime wedge around the rims of four glasses and dip them into a saucer of Tajin to coat.
4. Combine the grilled watermelon juice, tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice and agave in a pitcher with the ice.
5. Stir well until thoroughly chilled and combined.
6. Fill the rimmed glasses with fresh ice.
7. Pour the smoky watermelon margarita over the top.
8. Garnish each with a sprig of mint and a small wedge of grilled watermelon, and serve cold.
9. The margarita is Mexico's most famous export to the cocktail world, and grilling the watermelon first adds a smoky, jammy depth you simply cannot get any other way. The Tajin rim, that beloved chili-lime seasoning found on every Mexican street corner, brings a tangy heat that plays beautifully against the sweet fruit. It is summer in a glass, built for sipping beside a hot grill.

Nutrition (estimated, per serving)

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 180mg