A Margarita Board Moment: Because Every Sip Deserves a Little Style

If you’re anything like me, a margarita isn’t just a cocktail—it’s an invitation. To slow down. To gather. To laugh under twinkle lights. With Cinco de Mayo right around the corner, I thought it would be fun to share a few of our favorite margarita recipes—plus a festive way to serve them that turns happy hour into something extra special.

Whether it’s Cinco de Mayo, a warm evening with friends, or one of those “let’s make Tuesday feel like Friday” kind of nights, there’s something about a margarita that feels like a celebration in a glass.

And if you know Simple Life Things, you know we love turning the ordinary into something just a little more special. So instead of just mixing up a pitcher, why not create a margarita board? Think: part cocktail station, part grazing board, part “ooh, what’s that?” conversation starter. It’s everything I love—beautiful, flavorful, and made to be shared.

So, what exactly is a Margarita Board?

Picture a gorgeous spread with all the makings for fresh, custom margaritas: juicy fruits, zesty salts, fresh herbs, and your favorite tequilas—all arranged so guests can mix, muddle, rim, and sip their own perfect creation. It’s a vibe. A flavorful, festive, lime-and-Tajín-dusted vibe.

Here’s how to build your own:

The Margarita Board Must-Haves

1. Fresh Citrus

Limes are a must, but I also love adding orange slices and lemon peels for a touch of brightness and color. Lime wheels and wedges pull double duty as a garnish and a splash of tartness. And for a little extra flair? Try making citrus peel spirals—just use a channel knife or veggie peeler and twist them around a straw or skewer. They’re easy to prep ahead and add the kind of playful, “wait, you made that?!” touch that always gets a smile.

2. Sweeteners

Sugar cubes are fun and easy for portioning, especially if you find some infused with chili or citrus zest. Agave syrup is another favorite for smooth, natural sweetness, although I like to keep my margaritas simple — just a splash of triple sec or Cointreau as the sweetener, nothing too fussy.

3. Fruits for Flavor (and Garnishes)

Watermelon, pineapple, blackberries, and even cucumber are fresh, colorful, and delicious, either muddled into your glass or nibbled between sips. One of our favorite fruity garnishes for a margarita board is a blackberry rosemary spear — it’s simple, stunning, and adds just the right mix of sweet and herbal.

4. Rimming salts—classic sea salt, pink salt, Tajín, or a sweet chili sugar mix.

Set out on the board in small bowls or ramekins.

5. Heat + Herbs

Sliced jalapeños, chile-infused tequila, and fresh basil or mint bring unexpected depth. And Tajín? It’s basically a margarita’s best friend—rim the glass, sprinkle on fruit, or add a spicy dash. I also love to turn up the heat with a little chile de árbol tincture — I always keep a bottle ready in my home bar for that extra kick that sneaks up just right.

6. Ice

Fun ice cubes are one of those little details that make a big impact — they instantly level up your margarita game. I love using this oversized ice square tray to make big, slow-melting cubes that feel just a little extra. You can prep a bunch ahead of time and stash them in your freezer tray until it’s party time. And for a playful twist? Try freezing in slices of citrus, fresh herbs, or even a few berries — it’s an easy way to add flavor and flair.

7. Tequila + Mixers

Offer a couple of tequila varieties—maybe a clean blanco and a smooth reposado—and a citrus liqueur like triple sec. Bonus points for chile-infused tequila for the bold at heart. Pouring them into a few fun decanter-style pitchers adds a little charm and makes your setup feel extra thoughtful (without any extra effort).

Let your guests explore and experiment. Some might go classic, others might surprise themselves with a jalapeño-basil-blackberry combo that somehow works like magic.

Finish your board with little touches that spark joy—pretty cocktail napkins, fresh flowers, or a few votive candles flickering in the background. It doesn’t have to be complicated to feel special. That’s the heart of a Margarita Board Moment: taking something familiar and giving it a dash of personality and intention.

Here’s to salty rims, sweet sips, and gatherings that feel as good as they taste.

Cheese + Crackers

Xo

Kori