Summer is peaking its head out as the month of June begins, and we are already dreading the hot waves of seasonal heat. Some of us may be traveling the world while experiencing new exotic places, new drinks and new food, but some of us are stuck in Los Angeles with our regular routine and sometimes, smoggy atmosphere. No worries, because with this refreshing, breezy drink and appetizer, you can bring summer right into your kitchen. Learn how to make an incredible mango margarita and pair it with light appetizer of melon and prosciutto.
Mango Margarita Ingredients:
2 oz of Tequila (we prefer Blanco for this drink)
¾ oz of Grand Marnier or Cointreau
2 oz of Mango or tropical fruit juice – (if you like it sweeter, you can add an additional 1/2oz-1oz)
1 mango
5 limes
5 big cubes of ice
Whether your mangoes come from California, Florida or Mexico they are now in season! Go to your closest market and pick out some juicy mangoes (they are usually under a dollar this time of year). Pick out a few limes that you can hand squeeze for better taste, or buy some fresh lime juice if you are feeling lazy.
You can find all the liquor products you are looking for by simply dropping by the nearest BevMo or local grocery market. For this particular mango margarita recipe, we chose a "blanco" style tequila. Grand Marnier will give that extra sweet kick to your margarita, but if that’s out of your budget, then you can use triple sec. Also, remember to try and pick a mango that's not too firm - the softer the better. The added mango or tropical juice (we chose passion fruit) suggested is used to balance out all of the flavors and give the margarita a more "island" feel.
How to make a Mango Margarita:
Let the blender do all the work! First add the tequila, Grand Marnier and the lime juice.
Chop the mango into little cubes and add them to the mix.
Add mango or tropical fruit juice.
Add the ice and blend it all together.
For the salt rim: Place margarita salt on a small plate. Wet the rim of the glass with a lime wedge (cut down the center). Dip the outside rim of the glass in a circular motion so that the salt sticks to the glass.
Melon (Cantaloupe) and Prosciutto
The easiest and most refreshing appetizer that exists on earth, and my personal favorite is a slice of prosciutto ham sitting on a bed of melon. Melons just began their season and should start making their appearance in your local supermarkets. It’s simple, cut up your melon into thin slices and add the prosciutto on top of the melon. Get creative with the display and use toothpicks to help put it all together!
Now you can create your very own summer vacation with the slice of a knife and the press of a blender button. These simple recipes will turn your home into an exotic tropical island - minus the costly expenses. Cheers!
