La Playa Cocktail adds a spicy twist to the classic margarita with chile peppers. They insert some zing into the cocktail while the pineapple and lime juices mellow it out. And, the addition of the aromatics of basil is genius! Just be certain to strain the herbs well.

You need to begin to infuse the tequila at least 24 hours in advance, so if you want some for Cinco de Mayo start right away!

La Playa Cocktail Recipe
Yields one cocktail

Ingredients
2 ounces Serrano & Jalapeno-Infused tequila (see instructions below)
1 ounce pineapple juice
1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
1/4 oz. agave syrup
2 basil leaves

Garnish Options
basil leaves
dried chile peppers
pineapple slices

Directions
Crush the basil between your fingers and add to a cocktail shaker. Pour in the tequila, pineapple juice, lime juice and agave syrup. Add ice and shake vigorously. Double strain over fresh ice into a double rocks glass. Garnish.

Serrano & Jalapeno-Infused Tequila
Ingredients
1 bottle Corralejo blanco tequila
1 whole jalapeno pepper (remove stem, quarter lengthwise)
1 whole serrano pepper (remove stem, quarter lengthwise)

Directions
Add the jalapeno and serrano to a bottle of tequila. Allow the tequila to infuse for a minimum 24 hours and up to 72 hours. Strain out the solids, rinse the bottle, and pour the tequila back in. Be certain to mark the label so it is not mistaken for regular tequila!