Have you ever wanted to blend two favorite cocktails into one new creation? Two classics — the Negroni and the Margarita — come together in the Italian Margarita. Made with tequila, blood orange liqueur, fresh-squeezed orange juice and a splash of Campari, this cocktail is the ideal compromise when you can’t decide between a Negroni or a Margarita.
Tequila Cocktails, Campari Cocktails
I have a soft spot for tequila cocktails, especially those that pair tequila with citrus. From limoncello variations to grapefruit and mint riffs and spicy cucumber-jalapeño takes, citrus is a central element in many tequila-based drinks. Pairing tequila with fresh orange juice felt like the next natural step for me.
I wanted something that broke away from the usual tequila–triple sec–lime formula. That’s when Campari, usually reserved for Negronis, seemed like the perfect addition. To complement the bitter-sweet complexity of Campari, I reached for a blood orange liqueur — it adds bright, rich orange notes that pair beautifully with tequila and fresh juice.
With the right proportions, these ingredients combine into a balanced, flavorful cocktail: the Italian Margarita.
Italian Margarita Pairing Ideas
At Sip and Feast we love pairing food with cocktails. The Italian Margarita works well with many dishes, and here are some of my favorite pairing ideas:
- Pizza — especially pizzas with garlic or white sauces. The orange flavors in the cocktail cut through richness and complement the dough and cheese.
- Tacos — seafood or citrus-forward tacos are an excellent match. Shrimp tacos with a citrusy sauce are a natural partner; if necessary, orange juice can stand in for lime in some taco recipes.
- Mole poblano — the deep, layered flavors of mole match nicely with tequila and citrus-based cocktails, creating a memorable contrast.
These suggestions are just a starting point. The drink is so well rounded it’s perfectly enjoyable on its own.
The Ingredients for the Italian Margarita
You’ll need just a few simple ingredients to make this cocktail:
- Tequila — a silver or blanco tequila works well for mixing.
- Campari — delivers the signature bitter, herbal note.
- Blood orange liqueur — I used a blood orange liqueur for depth and bright orange flavor; Grand Marnier or Gran Gala are fine alternatives.
- Fresh-squeezed orange juice — fresh is strongly recommended for the best flavor.
The Italian Margarita Process
Fill a glass with fresh ice. I used a tall beer-style glass for this batch, but a rocks glass is a classic choice for margaritas.
Juice half an orange and add the juice to a cocktail shaker with the tequila, blood orange liqueur, Campari and some ice.
Shake vigorously for at least 20 seconds to chill and properly dilute the drink.
Strain the cocktail over the fresh ice in your glass. Garnish with an orange peel or an orange slice — whichever you prefer. Serve immediately and enjoy.
If you try this Campari-forward tequila cocktail, let us know what you think. Tag your photos or share the experience with friends. Thank you for your support and enjoy responsibly!
Italian Margarita – Tequila, Orange, and Campari Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 oz Tequila
- 1 oz Blood Orange Liqueur
- 1 oz Campari
- 2.5 oz Fresh orange juice
- 1 cup ice, plus more for serving
- Orange peel for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the fresh-squeezed orange juice, tequila, blood orange liqueur, Campari and ice.
- Shake vigorously for 20 seconds.
- Strain and pour into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with an orange peel and serve immediately.
Nutrition
Calories: 200 kcal (approximate)
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.