Watermelon Basil Margarita | Chili Sugar Rim Recipe
Refreshing, sweet watermelon with herbaceous basil are the perfect flavors for a summertime margarita! The Chili Sugar Rim brings the spice and nice!

How to Make the Best Watermelon Basil Margarita | Chili Sugar Rim
There’s nothing quite like a refreshing, fruity margarita on a hot summer day, and this watermelon basil margarita is the perfect choice. The combination of fresh, juicy watermelon with aromatic basil creates a beautifully balanced cocktail that’s both sweet and herbaceous. The chili sugar rim adds an unexpected kick of heat that brings all the flavors together in perfect harmony.
This recipe is a celebration of summer’s bounty. Watermelon’s natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the anise-like notes of fresh basil, while the triple sec and tequila provide a smooth, sophisticated base. The real magic happens when you take that first sip and the chili sugar rim hits your palate—bringing warmth and complexity to every taste.
Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or looking for a fun way to cool off, this watermelon basil margarita with a chili sugar rim is sure to impress your guests and become a seasonal favorite. It’s simple to make, visually stunning, and absolutely delicious.

Watermelon Basil Margarita | Chili Sugar Rim
Refreshing, sweet watermelon with herbaceous basil are the perfect flavors for a summertime margarita! The Chili Sugar Rim brings the spice and nice!
Ingredients
Watermelon Basil Margarita
Chili Sugar Rim
Instructions
Watermelon Basil Margarita
- Muddle the watermelon pieces and fresh basil together in a cocktail shaker to release the flavors.
- Add the silver tequila, agave nectar, triple sec, and fresh lime juice to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice.
Chili Sugar Rim
- Mix the turbinado sugar, chili powder, and cayenne pepper in a shallow dish.
- Rim the glass with the chili sugar mixture before serving.
- Garnish with a watermelon wedge and fresh basil leaf if desired.
Notes
- This margarita is best enjoyed fresh, so prepare it just before serving.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper to the sugar rim.
- For a frozen version, blend the watermelon pieces with ice instead of muddling.