Mock-a-Rita Recipe Roundup for Cinco de Mayo
Shandra Martinez
| 3 min read
If you’re ready to celebrate Cinco de Mayo but don’t feel like clinking glasses filled with the traditional margaritas that are often served on this holiday, we have a frothy twist or two on that signature drink that you just might like even more than the original. We’ll show you how you can whip up a few batches of mock margaritas to complement any party or get-together. Whether you’ve joined the growing number of people looking for low or no-alcohol options, or you’re part of the Sober Curious crowd, these Mock-a-Rita drinks are right at home in any environment. They can even be served in little glasses for the pint-sized crowd.
Cinco de Mayo
So, why do people celebrate a day that means May 5? It’s actually a historical date, commemorating May 5, 1862 when the Mexican army claimed a victory over France in the Franco-Mexican War. That was the day the Mexican army won the Battle of the Puebla. That’s why Cinco de Mayo is also known as the Battle of the Puebla Day. In Mexico, the date is marked with parades and other celebrations. In the United States, this day has largely become a celebration of Mexican heritage centering on food and drinks.
Margaritas feature prominently into many menus on Cinco de Mayo. The drink, traditionally made with lime, tequila and other fruit flavors, can be served frozen or blended over ice. Margaritas are usually poured into a wide-mouthed glass with a salted rim for a classic touch.
Mock-a-Ritas
Mock margaritas, aka Mock-a-ritas, have surged in popularity as more people seek out low or no-alcohol drinks. If you’re making – or ordering – one of these drinks, you’re part of a national trend, according to the latest report on non-alcoholic drinks by NielsenIQ, a data analytics company focused on retail and consumer goods. As of August 2022, sales of non-alcoholic spirits were up 88% from the previous year. Sales of non-alcoholic wine was up 23% year-over-year, and sales of non-alcohol beer was up nearly 20% compared to the previous year – a market share worth $328 million.
With no alcohol mixed in, these mock margaritas are big on bold and bright flavors. Here are some of our favorite recipes that you can blend at home. The first two recipes are shared by Shanthi Appelö, a registered dietician and health and wellness spokesperson for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.
Spicy Green Mock-a-Rita. This festive recipe is a spicy and refreshing drink that’s a perfect substitute for a traditional margarita. Jalapeno and lime make the perfect combo to take your beverage buffet up a notch. Servings: 4
Layered Strawberry Mango Mock-a-Rita: Featuring fresh berries and a squeeze of lime, this mocktail cuts out excess added sugar and is sure to be a crowd pleaser. It’s also really easy to make. Servings: 2
Strawberry Mock-a-Rita: This recipe serves up a big burst of strawberry flavor, with just enough lime to give you a taste of tart. The Mayo Clinic has featured this recipe, and notes it’s low-sodium, low-fat and has healthy carbs. It can be served as a delicious appetizer, or as a naturally sweet dessert. Servings: 6
Non-Alcoholic Frozen Margarita: This one is for all the frozen margarita fans. Its sweet-tart flavor is sure to be a hit with traditional margarita lovers. The Food Network says this recipe – made with light agave syrup and fresh orange juice – is definitely worth breaking out the blender for.
Related:
Photo credit: BCBSM
