Spice up your cocktail hour with this vibrant Ginger Margarita recipe made with tequila, lime juice, orange liqueur, and fresh ginger or ginger syrup. A bold twist on the classic that’s both invigorating and citrusy — perfect for spicy food pairings.

½ cup sugar
½ cup water
2–3 inches fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
Simmer all ingredients in a small saucepan for 10 minutes, then strain and cool.
(Optional) Rim your rocks glass with lime juice, then dip in salt or Tajín. Fill with ice.
In a cocktail shaker, combine:
Tequila
Cointreau
Lime juice
Ginger syrup
Add ice and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds.
Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
Garnish with a lime wheel, fresh ginger slice, or candied ginger skewer.
Spicy Thai or Indian dishes
Grilled pineapple skewers
Asian chicken lettuce wraps
Tuna tartare with jalapeño
Sweet potato fries with chili aioli
The ginger heat and lime zip balance beautifully with both rich and spicy foods.
Make a batch of ginger syrup and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Want it stronger? Add a splash of mezcal for smoky depth.
Use ginger beer as a topper for a lighter, sparkling variation.
Muddle fresh ginger slices in the shaker if you don’t have syrup — just double strain!
Ginger’s natural heat makes this a great fall/winter margarita, too.
Ginger has long been prized for its bold, aromatic kick — and in cocktails, it adds depth and complexity without overpowering. The Ginger Margarita merges the Mexican roots of the classic with a global flavor twist that’s both modern and timeless.
1 servings