Fresh Lime Margaritas
February 19, 2012
I do not have a lime tree, or a lemon for that matter, but that does not stop me from loving margaritas! We recently had the sort of gathering that necessitated a jug of margaritas. I dutifully headed for the market and loaded up a thousand limes for the effort (actually it was 86, yes, 86 exactly). The funny thing was, the clerk did not even blink? How long do you have to work as a grocery checker before it is completely unremarkable when a woman comes through picking up nothing, but a lug of limes? I wanted to make her a drink.
Margaritas truly are the cocktail of the winter. What you say? You tend towards this cold citrusy drink in the summertime or at your annual Cinco de Mayo extravaganza? Well sure, margaritas are great year round, but winter is the time of year when local citrus is most fresh and abundant. Plus, there is something about the tart zing of a lime in February that is sure to chase the winter blues away. The tequila does not hurt either.
Tequila Lime Tart
May 1, 2011
What can I say? Sometimes it is not enough to drink a margarita, I want to eat it too! I was inspired by Food52’s recent tart recipe contest. Tarts are fun to prepare and display so beautifully. I love to make them sweet and savory. Perhaps you already checked out my Caramel Apple Tarts or Sausage Kale Dinner Tart.
When the recipe for Tequila Lime Tart came together, I was busy making batch after batch of Meyer Lemon Curd. It occurred to me to make lime curd. While lime curd sounded delicious, wouldn’t it be even better with a splash of tequila? While I was at it, I might as well fold in some whipped cream. Viola, Tequila Lime Tart!
The tequila lime filling sits on a my favorite gingersnap crust. The tangy lime and spicy ginger are delicious companions. Make the tart ahead and let it chill in the refrigerator. When you are ready, slice and serve. Take care in lifting the pieces as the crust is brittle. This is a perfect dessert for anytime of year, as limes are always available. It would pair particularly well with a Mexican meal, but really it would be good anytime. Enjoy!
Note:
This recipe earned an Editor’s Pick on Food52’s recent tart contest! Here’s what they said:
My Pantry Shelf’s tart harnesses the power of late winter citrus and turns limes into a vibrant tart. The mousse-y filling is both refreshingly bright and satisfyingly creamy and the gingersnap crust is a great combo with the lime filling. Be careful with the delicate crumbly crust when removing the tart ring. The touch of tequila is just enough to make you think of a margarita on the beach—perfect for getting through the last days of winter.
My Pantry Shelf 