How To Make a Za'atar Margarita

Margaritas. We all know them, and we all love them. They’re a classic drink I find myself gravitating to whenever I go out somewhere, but it's also a drink I like to play around with at home because of its versatility that allows for infusing other flavors. It's a really easy drink to master by keeping a few staple liquors and spirits on hand like tequila — and an orange liqueur such as cointreau or triple sec.

You may have heard of a spicy margarita, and my Za’atar Margarita is a fun spin on a classic drink that only requires a few ingredients. Just as you would use chili salt for a spicy marg, the savory za’atar actually makes a lot of sense in this drink. Za’atar is made up of thyme, oregano, sumac, and sesame seeds. The citrus notes of fresh lime and orange liqueur complement the different herbs within the middle eastern blend for a sweet and salty punch of flavor.

Za’atar Margarita

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces tequila

• 1 ounce lime juice (or 1 lime)

• 1 ounce orange liqueur (Cointreau or Triple Sec)

• 1/4 teaspoon agave

• 2 1/2 teaspoon za'atar

• 1 tablespoon salt   

Steps:

MAKE THE DRINK: In a cocktail shaker combine tequila, lime juice, orange liqueur, agave, and 1/2 teaspoon za'atar.

Add ice, seal the top, and shake vigorously to combine. 

MAKE THE SALT MIXTURE: Combine additional 2 teaspoons of za'atar and salt in a shallow plate. Rub the rim of the glass with lime and dip it into the salt mixture. If this isn't your thing, don't worry you can skip it.

Add fresh ice to the cup and strain the margarita liquid over fresh ice. 

Garnish with lime and enjoy.