Cosmo Rita Cocktail Recipe

Cosmo Rita Nutrition Facts

Calories:~200

Fat:0g

Protein:0g

Carbohydrates:~13g

Alcohol:%abv

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

Last Updated: August 23, 2024

History

The Cosmo Rita is a delightful fusion of two classic cocktails: the cosmopolitan and the margarita. This drink is perfect for those who appreciate the tartness of a cosmopolitan but crave the tequila kick of a margarita.

  • Origins: The cosmopolitan gained popularity in the 1990s, while the margarita has been a staple since the 1930s.
  • Popularity: A favorite among those who enjoy a sophisticated yet bold cocktail.
  • Occasions: Ideal for festive occasions or a chic night out.

How Cosmo Rita Tastes?

The Cosmo Rita offers a tantalizing balance of sweet and sour, with a robust tequila foundation. The cranberry juice provides a fruity tartness, while the lime juice adds a refreshing zing. The triple sec rounds out the flavor with a subtle orange sweetness.

Interesting facts about Cosmo Rita

  • The cosmopolitan is often associated with the TV show 'Sex and the City'.
  • Margaritas can be served on the rocks, blended, or straight up.
  • The cranberry juice in the Cosmo Rita not only adds flavor but also gives it a vibrant pink hue.

Ingredients

Tequila

The soul of our Cosmo Rita, 1.5 ounces of tequila provides the sturdy base that holds the cocktail together. Going overboard might turn your soirée into a fiesta, while not enough tequila and you might as well call it a mocktail. If you're feeling adventurous, switch to Mezcal for a smoky twist.

Emma Rose

Triple Sec

This sweet talker sweetens the deal with its orange flavor, adding complexity to the beverage. Exceeding the 0.5 ounce recommendation could overpower the drink's balance, leaving you with a sugar rush rather than a cocktail. If Triple Sec isn't handy, Cointreau or Grand Marnier could step in—expect a richer, deeper orange profile.

Alex Green

Cranberry Juice

Just 1 ounce, but it's the secret weapon that gives our drink its signature blush. Too much and the tartness will face off with your tastebuds, too little and the drink loses its lively punch. In a pinch, pomegranate juice could pinch hit, lending an earthier sweetness to the mix.

Mary Mitkina

Lime Juice

Half an ounce adds just the right amount of zing. Skip it, and the whole cocktail falls flat—literally. It's the citrusy spark that keeps the flavor profile vibrant. No fresh limes? Try a dash of lemon juice, the drink will be a tad more puckered, but still party-perfect.

Emma Rose

Lemon Twist

The garnish that gives finesse and that 'je ne sais quoi'. It's the final flourish, the aromatic beckoning that invites the first sip. Without it, the drink is still good, but like an unscented letter, it lacks that hint of personal touch.

Alex Green

Recipe. How to make Cosmo Rita Drink

  1. Chill the Glass: Place your cocktail glass in the freezer to chill.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a shaker, add 1.5 ounces of tequila, 0.5 ounce of triple sec, 1 ounce of cranberry juice, and 0.5 ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice.
  3. Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
  4. Strain: Take your chilled glass out of the freezer and strain the cocktail into it.
  5. Garnish: Twist a lemon peel over the drink to release its oils and then drop it into the glass.

Pro Tips

  • Ice Quality: Use large, clear ice cubes to shake your cocktail for better dilution control.
  • Lime Juice: Always use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
  • Garnish: When adding the lemon twist, be sure to do it over the glass to capture the essential oils.

Perfect Pairings

Appetizers

  • Spicy grilled shrimp: The zesty and refreshing character of the Cosmo Rita provides a perfect balance to the spiciness of the shrimp.
  • Chicken satay: The savory flavors with the peanut dipping sauce will complement the tartness of the cocktail.

Main Courses

  • Fish tacos: A classic pairing with tequila-based cocktails, the fresh slaw and creamy sauce on fish tacos would work nicely with the Cosmo Rita's bright flavors.
  • Ceviche: The acidity from the lime juice in both the cocktail and the ceviche will echo each other, creating a harmonious pairing.

Desserts

  • Lemon sorbet: The citrus notes in the Cosmo Rita will pair beautifully with the sweet and tangy flavor of a lemon sorbet.

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What you could change in Cosmo Rita

  • Tequila: For a smoother taste, use a reposado tequila instead of blanco.
  • Triple Sec: Cointreau or Grand Marnier can be used for a more luxurious flavor profile.
  • Cranberry Juice: Pomegranate juice can be a tangy alternative.

Explore all drinks starting with C here

And of course - twists🍹

Spicy Cosmo Rita

Kick things up a notch by muddling a few slices of jalapeño pepper in the shaker before adding the other ingredients. The spice will give the Cosmo Rita a fiery personality, sure to warm the palate and add an exciting zing to each sip. Ingredients: In addition to the original ingredients, add a couple slices of jalapeño.

Blueberry Cosmo Rita

Introduce a berry delightful twist by substituting cranberry juice with blueberry juice. This will gift the Cosmo Rita with a deeper, berry-rich hue and a slightly sweeter, more nuanced flavor profile. Ingredients: Replace cranberry juice with blueberry juice.

Cosmo Rita Royale

Elevate your cocktail by topping it off with a splash of champagne. The bubbly will add a touch of sophistication and provide a sparkling effervescence that makes every sip celebratory. Ingredients: After pouring the cocktail, top with a splash of champagne.

In case you forgot basics how to make Cosmo Rita

Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.

Learn everything on how to shake

Place your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.

Learn everything on how to strain

Garnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).

Learn everything on garnishing

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Frequently Asked Questions on Cosmo Rita

Can I make a Cosmo Rita in large batches for a party?

Yes, you can multiply the ingredients based on the number of servings you need and mix in a large pitcher or bowl. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator and serve over ice, garnishing each glass individually.

What type of ice is best to use for shaking cocktails?

For shaking cocktails, it's typically best to use medium to large-sized ice cubes that won't melt too quickly and dilute the drink.

How long can I store my homemade Cosmo Rita if I prepare it in advance?

Pre-mixed Cosmo Rita without ice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add ice only when you're ready to serve to avoid dilution.

What kind of glass is typically used for serving a Cosmo Rita?

A Cosmo Rita is usually served in a chilled martini or coupe glass.

Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?

While it's possible to use bottled lime juice, fresh lime juice is highly recommended for the best taste and zesty freshness.

Is Cosmo Rita suitable for vegans?

Yes, the ingredients in a Cosmo Rita are typically vegan-friendly, but always check the specific brands of spirits and mixers to ensure they adhere to vegan standards.

How should I select a tequila for my Cosmo Rita?

Opt for a high-quality blanco tequila for the most authentic flavor, or choose a reposado tequila for a smoother taste. It's best to avoid the cheapest options, as they could compromise the taste of the cocktail.

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