Halloween came and went but there is still time to celebrate with a spooky, spicy margarita. It’s like a spicy margarita but spooky – boo!  

 If you’ve never had a spicy margarita before, this is the one to make. This recipe succeeds where so many of its siblings seem to come short. Spicy tequila combined with sweet ginger beer and a touch of salt creates a frighteningly delicious flavor trifecta. It’s tart yet slightly sweet, spicy and super smooth.  

 I guarantee this seven ingredient recipe is so easy you’ll never need margarita mix again. Enjoy!  

Serving Size:  One Cocktail

Recipe can be doubled or multiplied to serve in a pitcher

What You’ll Need: 

• Ice 
• Jalapeño 
• Coarse salt 
• 2 ounces tequila 
• 1 ounce lime juice (fresh or store bought) 
• 1 ounce triple sec or cointreau 
• Ginger beer  
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup or agave (optional) 

To make simple syrup combine equal parts boiling water and granulated sugar. It will last in the refrigerator for one month.

Instructions: 

1. Run a lime wedge around the rim of each serving glass and press into a small plate of salt (I prefer sea salt) until the rim is completely lined. Fill glasses with ice and set aside. 

1. Add lime juice and three to four jalapeño coins, without seeds, in a large glass or cocktail shaker. Muddle. 

1. Combine tequila, simple syrup (optional), triple sec and handful of ice into the same glass or cocktail shaker. Stir vigorously. 

1. Pour liquid (reserving ice) into serving glass. Top with ginger beer. 

1. Garnish with a lime wedge and a slice or two of jalapeño. Serve immediately.  

Now, grab your best Joe Exotic costume, a stuffed tiger and pretend 2020 was only a long, Stephen King inspired horror movie we all forgot to turn off.