Peach Basil Margarita Recipe

peach basil margarita in a rocks glass with basil garnish

A peach basil margarita transforms the beloved classic by fusing ripe, juicy peaches with the herbal brightness of fresh basil. This combination draws out summery sweetness, with basil grounding and rounding the fruit’s exuberance. The result is a cocktail that feels both fresh and unexpected, offering layered aromatics and a subtle twist on the classic citrus profile of a margarita.

Why Peach and Basil Work So Well Together

Ripe peach delivers floral, honeyed notes balanced by juicy acidity, making it a natural partner for sharp lime and earthy tequila. Basil’s gentle peppery undertones and aroma cut through peach’s syrupy nature, preventing the drink from becoming cloying. A hint of herbal character amplifies freshness, allowing both ingredients to shine without overpowering each other.

Peach Basil Margarita Ingredients

60 ml blanco tequila
30 ml fresh peach purée (from ripe peaches)
22.5 ml fresh lime juice
15 ml orange liqueur (triple sec or Cointreau)
10 ml simple syrup (adjust to taste)
3–4 fresh basil leaves
Fine salt or chili salt, for rimming (optional)
Peach slice and fresh basil sprig, for garnish

Method: How to Make a Peach Basil Margarita

If using, rim a rocks glass with fine salt or chili salt. Run a lime wedge around the rim and dip into the salt.
In a shaker, gently muddle basil leaves to release aroma—avoid shredding for a clean taste.
Add 60 ml tequila, 30 ml peach purée, 22.5 ml lime juice, 15 ml orange liqueur, and 10 ml simple syrup.
Fill with ice and shake hard for 12–15 seconds.
Double-strain into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice.
Garnish with a peach slice and a vibrant sprig of basil.

Balancing Peach, Citrus & Basil—Expert Tips

Choose ripe, fragrant peaches—underripe fruit lacks sweetness and flavor intensity.
For peach purée, simply blend peeled peach and fine-strain. Canned or good-quality bottled peach purée works if fresh is unavailable.
Use only enough basil to enhance—over-muddling or excess leaves make the drink bitter or grassy.
Taste and adjust the simple syrup. The peach’s ripeness determines how much extra sweetness is needed.
Try a chili-salt rim or smoked salt for savory tension and extra aroma.

fresh peaches and basil for peach margarita

Serving and Presenting Your Peach Basil Margarita

Presentation lets these flavors shine. Use a clear rocks or double old-fashioned glass to showcase the cocktail’s pastel peach hue and the vivid green of your basil garnish. Layering both peach slice and basil sprig not only hints at flavor but adds aromatic impact with every sip. Keep ice fresh and cubes large to avoid watering down the drink too quickly.

elegant peach basil margarita with basil and peach garnish

Flavor Pairings and Variations

Mix in 10 ml mezcal for gentle smoke overlaying the fruit and herb freshness.
Add 10 ml ginger liqueur or fresh ginger syrup for spicy complexity.
Try white peach and Thai basil for a subtler twist.
Pair with summertime dishes: grilled seafood, mango salad, or crisp tortilla chips with salsa.