This Sicilian Aperol Margarita is a Mexican-Italian fusion cocktail. Two great cultures steeped in food and drink tradition. For those of you that don’t know Aperol – it’s a light Italian citrus liquor that has a bitter orange taste with a hint of rhubarb.

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Over half of the blood oranges grown in Italy come from Sicily. They are sweeter, have less acidity, and more intense flavor. Hints of cherry, raspberry, and strawberry complement the orange citrus notes.

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We prepared this drink for Cinco de Mayo & it was a hit!!! This drink has more Tequila than Aperol, so if you want a slightly lighter profile – cut it with soda.

1)  Coat the bottom of a flat dish (slightly larger than the serving glass) in salt. Zest the orange into the salted dish and mix well. Set aside for rimming the glass

2) In a cocktail shaker, fill with ice then add Tequila, Aperol, blood orange juice and lime juice. Shake well, creating a froth.

3)  Cut out an orange wedge and rim the glass with the orange wedge in a pre-chilled serving glass.

4) Dip the rim of the glass into the salt/orange zest mixture to coat the edge of the glass.

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5) Strain the cocktail into the margarita glass filled with ice. Garnish with an orange wedge. Serve Immediately.