Spicy Margarita

My Dad has the best cocktail recipes, he's always they one mixing up drinks for everyone at a party! This is a recipe that I was introduced to by him, and it has a little twist to the recipe. It's called a margarita, but it is actually made with vodka instead of tequila! I love how simple this recipe is, and it is sweetened naturally with maple syrup. The sliced jalapeños give it a perfect balance of spice with sweet. 

A few tips when mixing up cocktails but not straying too far from a paleo diet. Alcohol is not paleo friendly, however it is important to have balance and enjoy a drink occasionally! 

Since this recipe is using vodka, I will speak into that... most vodkas are made from wheat, corn, grain, and rye, which are not paleo friendly.  However, because vodka is not brewed, but is a distilled spirits the gluten shouldn't be present, but there is a risk of cross contamination.

You also have another option, because there are some brands of vodka that are made with paleo friendly ingredients like potato and grapes. Some brands that you could look for are: Cîroc, Binboa, Vikingfjord, Boyd and Blair, Chase, Chopin, and Cirrus.

Another thing to consider if you are going to drink vodka, is what you are mixing it with. Use paleo friendly ingredients such as club soda, fresh citrus, or coconut water instead of sugary processed mixers. You can also use natural sweeteners like honey, coconut sugar, or maple syrup! I hope you enjoy this cocktail as much as I do! 

RECIPE:

• 1.5 oz vodka

• 1/3 cup fresh lime juice

• 2 tablespoons maple syrup

• 2 slices of jalapeño

Shake the first three ingredients together in a cocktail shaker with ice. Rim martini or margarita glass with salt in desired. Pour mixture into glass and garnish with jalapeño slices. Serves 1.