| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 240 | 0g | 0g | 30g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 22g | 5g | 1g | 0.01g |
Despite my Midwestern upbringing, which is so often synonymous with roasted corn cobs and hearty beef stews, I’ve developed a rather voracious appetite for exploration – both geographic and culinary. Allow me to introduce to you a rather unexpected indulgence of mine, something that’s far removed from the familiar plains of Nebraska – the Cactus Pear Margarita.
A Taste Adventure
Whenever I whip up a batch of these colorful drinks, I’m taken on a voyage far away from the heartland, straight to the sun-baked landscapes of Mexico. A land where tequila flows alongside crystal clear rivulets and where lime trees dot the horizon in vast olive-green waves. Today we bid adieu to the comfort of our corn casseroles and embark on a tropical escapade into the wild, wild west of mixology.
It may seem a departure from my familiar culinary canvas, but that’s exactly what makes the Cactus Pear Margarita an adventure. The tartness from fresh limes paired with the sweetness of the cactus pears and the kick of tequila makes for an irresistible concoction – yet it’s not just about the tasting experience.
The Fruit of Desert Gods
My Cactus Pear Margarita is not just a cocktail; it’s a way for me to share an experience with you. Just as I share my favorite recipes from my Nebraska Midwest upbringing, this too is a memento from my travels, my culinary sojourns. It’s a drink that has found permanence in my recipe repertoire, not just for its vibrancy and taste, but also for the memories it invokes.
And before I forget, this margarita is also a fabulous pairing for spicy Mexican dishes, like Backyard Bean Tacos, or even Chilies Rellenos. The citrusy sweet notes of the cocktail can wonderfully balance the fiery spice, resulting in a harmony on your palate.
So, here’s to shared meals, to heartland cooking, and to gastronomical explorations. Here’s to the Cactus Pear Margarita.
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 cups tequila
- 1 cup fresh lime juice
- 3/4 cup Triple Sec
- 6 cactus pears
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional)
- Ice cubes
- Salted rim glasses
- Lime wedges for garnish (optional)
Method
Step One
Begin by preparing the cactus pears. Cut the ends off of each pear. Make a shallow cut lengthwise on the skin, and peel it off. Then, cut the pears into chunks.
Step Two
Place the cactus pear chunks in a blender or food processor. Blend until it becomes a smooth puree.
Step Three
Strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher, to remove the seeds. Press on the solids to extract as much juice as possible.
Step Four
Add 1.5 cups of tequila, 1 cup of fresh lime juice and 3/4 cups of Triple Sec to the pitcher of cactus pear juice. Stir until everything is well combined. If desired, stir in 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar to sweeten your margarita.
Step Five
Prepare your glasses by running a lime wedge around the rim and then dipping it in salt. Fill each glass with ice cubes.
Step Six
Pour the margarita mixture into the ice-filled glasses. Garnish with a lime wedge if desired. Your Cactus Pear Margarita is ready to serve. Enjoy!
