Drinks

4 6-ounce margaritas

• ½ of an 8-ounce (6-inch-long) cucumber, peeled and cut into thin slices
• ¾ cup good-quality blanco tequila (we use Milagro blanco for this margarita at our restaurant)
• ½ cup fresh lime juice
• ½ cup simple syrup (see below)
• Cucumber slices for garnish

In a blender, combine the cucumber, tequila, lime and simple syrup.  Blend until the mixture is as smooth as you can get it.  In a cocktail shaker, combine half of the mixture with 8 to 10 ice cubes, cover and shake for a full 15 seconds.  Strain through the shaker’s top into 2 martini glasses.  Garnish with cucumber slices (I usually cut a slit in each slice and impale one on the side of each glass).  Repeat the shaking with the remaining margarita mix. 

To make simple syrup:  In a small saucepan, combine 2 cups sugar with one cup water and a tablespoon or two of fresh lime juice.  Bring to a simmer, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.  Cool and store tightly covered in the refrigerator.