15 Alcohol-Free Margarita Mocktails for Fiesta Night

Just as you're planning your next fiesta night, you'll find that these alcohol-free margarita mocktails offer the perfect solution for inclusive entertaining. You can create vibrant, flavorful drinks that everyone at your party will enjoy, from designated drivers to non-drinkers. Each recipe brings its own unique twist to the classic margarita profile, combining fresh citrus, creative garnishes, and unexpected ingredients. The best part? These sophisticated mocktails are just the beginning of what you can discover in your mixology journey.

Classic Virgin Lime Margarita

A classic virgin lime margarita captures all the vibrant, zesty flavors of the original cocktail without the tequila. This alcohol-free version maintains the perfect balance between tart citrus, subtle sweetness, and that distinctive salty rim that margarita lovers crave.

The key to crafting an exceptional virgin margarita lies in using fresh ingredients and maintaining proper proportions. Fresh-squeezed lime juice is essential, as bottled alternatives often lack the bright, natural acidity that defines this iconic drink.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz simple syrup
• 1 oz orange juice
• 2 oz club soda
• Coarse salt for rimming
• Ice cubes
• Lime wedges for garnish

Rim a margarita glass with lime juice and dip in coarse salt. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes and add lime juice, simple syrup, and orange juice. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well chilled. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass over fresh ice, and top with club soda. Garnish with a lime wedge.

For best results, chill the margarita glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before preparing the drink. The simple syrup can be made ahead by combining equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan, heating until dissolved, then cooling completely. Store any leftover syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Spicy Jalapeño Citrus Mocktail

A spicy jalapeño citrus mocktail offers all the bold flavors of a traditional margarita without the alcohol, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy a vibrant drink while staying sober. The combination of fresh citrus juices, jalapeño heat, and agave sweetness creates a sophisticated and refreshing beverage that's ideal for any occasion.

This mocktail balances the bright acidity of lime and orange with the subtle kick of jalapeño, while still maintaining the classic margarita profile through the use of citrus and agave nectar. The addition of club soda adds a pleasant effervescence that makes this drink particularly refreshing on warm days or as an accompaniment to Mexican cuisine.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz fresh lime juice
• 2 oz fresh orange juice
• 1 oz agave nectar
• 2-3 thin jalapeño slices
• Club soda
• Tajín or chili-lime salt for rimming
• Ice cubes
• Lime wheels for garnish
• Fresh jalapeño slices for garnish

In a cocktail shaker, combine the fresh lime juice, orange juice, and agave nectar. Add the jalapeño slices and gently muddle to release the oils and heat from the pepper. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until well-chilled.

Prepare a glass by running a lime wedge around the rim and dipping it in Tajín or chili-lime salt. Fill the glass with fresh ice. Double-strain the mixture into the prepared glass to remove any jalapeño pieces. Top with club soda and gently stir to combine. Garnish with a lime wheel and fresh jalapeño slice if desired.

For the best results, adjust the level of spiciness by varying the number of jalapeño slices and muddling time. Remove the seeds from the jalapeño for less heat, or keep them in for maximum spiciness. The mocktail can be made ahead of time (except for the club soda) and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, though it's best served immediately while the citrus is fresh and the carbonation is strong.

Strawberry-Mint Margarita Refresher

This vibrant, alcohol-free version of a classic margarita combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the cooling essence of mint, creating a sophisticated mocktail that's perfect for any occasion. The natural tartness of lime juice provides the signature margarita tang, while a touch of agave nectar balances the flavors perfectly.

This refreshing beverage maintains the festive spirit of a traditional margarita while being completely family-friendly. The combination of muddled mint and strawberries creates a beautiful pink hue, making it visually appealing and Instagram-worthy, especially when garnished with fresh fruit and herbs.

Ingredients:

• 6 fresh strawberries, plus extra for garnish
• 8-10 fresh mint leaves, plus sprigs for garnish
• 2 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz agave nectar
• 4 oz club soda
• 1 cup crushed ice
• Coarse salt for rimming (optional)
• 1 lime wheel for garnish

In a cocktail shaker or sturdy glass, muddle the strawberries and mint leaves until the strawberries release their juices and the mint becomes fragrant. Add the fresh lime juice and agave nectar, then fill the shaker with crushed ice. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to ensure all ingredients are well combined and chilled. If desired, rim a glass with coarse salt by running a lime wedge around the rim and dipping it in salt spread on a small plate.

Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with fresh crushed ice. Top with club soda and gently stir to combine. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices, mint sprigs, and a lime wheel. Serve immediately while the drink is well-chilled and the club soda is still bubbly.

For the best results, choose ripe, bright red strawberries as they'll provide the most flavor and color. The drink can be prepared in advance up to the point of adding club soda – store the base mixture in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours, then add ice and club soda just before serving to maintain optimal carbonation and freshness.

Mango-Coconut Paradise Blend

Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this refreshing alcohol-free Mango-Coconut Paradise Blend. This mocktail combines the sweet, tropical flavors of ripe mango with creamy coconut, creating a sophisticated non-alcoholic alternative to the classic margarita that's perfect for any occasion.

The key to achieving the perfect balance in this mocktail lies in using fresh, high-quality ingredients and properly blending them to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. The combination of coconut cream and mango provides a rich, indulgent texture while lime juice adds the necessary tartness that makes traditional margaritas so appealing.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup coconut cream
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup simple syrup
• 1 cup coconut water
• 2 cups ice
• Shredded coconut for rim garnish
• Lime wedges for garnish
• Additional ice for serving

Place the coconut rim garnish on a small plate. Wet the rim of your serving glasses with a lime wedge and dip them in the shredded coconut. Set aside. In a high-powered blender, combine the chopped mango, coconut cream, lime juice, simple syrup, coconut water, and ice. Blend until smooth and creamy, ensuring no chunks of mango or ice remain. If the mixture is too thick, add more coconut water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

For the best results, chill your glasses in the freezer for about 15 minutes before serving. This recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, though you may need to re-blend it briefly before serving. Add fresh ice to the glasses, pour the mango-coconut mixture, and garnish with lime wedges for a picture-perfect presentation that tastes as good as it looks.

Extra Tip: The ripeness of your mangoes will significantly impact the final taste of your mocktail. Choose mangoes that yield slightly when pressed and have a sweet, fragrant aroma at the stem end. If your mangoes aren't quite ripe enough, you can increase the amount of simple syrup to achieve the desired sweetness. For a thicker, more smoothie-like consistency, freeze the mango chunks before blending.

Pineapple-Ginger Tropical Twist

This vibrant and refreshing alcohol-free pineapple-ginger margarita mocktail delivers all the tropical flavors of a classic cocktail without the spirits. The combination of fresh pineapple juice, zesty ginger, and citrus creates a sophisticated drink that's perfect for any occasion, from summer parties to alcohol-free gatherings.

The secret to this mocktail's complex flavor profile lies in the homemade ginger syrup, which adds a spicy warmth that balances perfectly with the sweet pineapple and tart lime. The addition of coconut water brings a subtle tropical note while helping to achieve that signature margarita consistency.

• 1 cup fresh pineapple juice
• 2 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz ginger syrup
• 2 oz coconut water
• 1/4 cup agave nectar
• Tajín or salt for rim garnish
• Fresh pineapple wedges
• Fresh mint leaves
• Ice cubes
• Club soda (optional)

To prepare the ginger syrup, combine equal parts water and sugar in a small saucepan with 1/4 cup of finely grated fresh ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and let cool completely.

For the mocktail, rim a margarita glass with lime juice and dip in Tajín or salt. In a shaker, combine pineapple juice, lime juice, ginger syrup, coconut water, and agave nectar with ice. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well chilled.

Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice. For added fizz, top with a splash of club soda. Garnish with fresh pineapple wedges and mint leaves.

For the best results, use freshly squeezed pineapple juice rather than canned versions, as it provides a brighter, more authentic flavor. The ginger syrup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a few thin slices of fresh ginger to the final drink. For a frozen version, blend all ingredients with crushed ice until smooth.

Blood Orange-Rosemary Spritzer

A blood orange-rosemary spritzer offers a sophisticated and refreshing take on the classic margarita, perfect for those seeking an alcohol-free alternative. The vibrant citrus notes of blood orange combine with the aromatic essence of fresh rosemary to create a complex and satisfying mocktail experience.

This drink capitalizes on the natural sweetness and striking color of blood oranges, which are typically available during winter months. The addition of rosemary provides an herbaceous note that elevates this spritzer beyond a simple fruit drink, while sparkling water adds the effervescence that makes it feel special and celebratory.

Ingredients:

• 4 blood oranges, juiced
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon honey or agave nectar
• 1/2 cup lime juice
• Sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Blood orange slices for garnish
• Extra rosemary sprigs for garnish

Start by creating a rosemary simple syrup by combining honey or agave nectar with 2 tablespoons of hot water and a sprig of rosemary. Let this mixture steep for 10 minutes, then remove the rosemary and allow the syrup to cool completely. In a large pitcher or shaker, combine the blood orange juice, lime juice, and the cooled rosemary-infused syrup. Stir or shake well to ensure all ingredients are properly mixed.

For each serving, fill a glass with ice and pour the blood orange mixture until it's about two-thirds full. Top with sparkling water to create the signature effervescence. Garnish with a fresh blood orange slice and a sprig of rosemary. Gently stir once before serving to combine the sparkling water with the juice mixture.

For the best results, juice the blood oranges just before preparing the drinks, as fresh juice will provide the most vibrant flavor and color. If blood oranges aren't in season, regular oranges can be substituted, though the color will be different. The rosemary simple syrup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week, allowing for quick assembly when needed.

Watermelon-Basil Cooler

A refreshing twist on the classic margarita, this watermelon-basil cooler combines the sweet, juicy flavors of fresh watermelon with aromatic basil leaves. The combination creates a sophisticated mocktail that's perfect for summer gatherings, poolside parties, or any occasion where you want a non-alcoholic alternative that doesn't compromise on taste.

This recipe maintains the essence of a margarita by incorporating lime juice and a salted rim, while the watermelon provides natural sweetness and the basil adds an unexpected herbal note. The drink is both hydrating and complex in flavor, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate crafted beverages without the alcohol content.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh watermelon chunks, seeds removed
• 8-10 fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons agave nectar
• 1/2 cup club soda
• Coarse salt for rimming
• Ice cubes
• Additional watermelon wedges and basil leaves for garnish

Place watermelon chunks in a blender and process until smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove pulp. In a cocktail shaker or large glass, muddle the basil leaves until they release their oils. Add the strained watermelon juice, lime juice, and agave nectar. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds. Prepare glasses by running a lime wedge around the rim and dipping in coarse salt. Fill glasses with ice, strain the mixture into them, and top each with a splash of club soda.

For optimal results, chill the watermelon before blending and ensure all ingredients are well-chilled. The basil leaves should be fresh and vibrant, as wilted leaves won't provide the same aromatic punch. You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of agave nectar, and the drink can be made in advance (minus the club soda) and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before serving.

Blackberry-Lime Fusion

Blackberry-lime fusion offers a sophisticated twist on the classic margarita, delivering the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors without the alcohol. This vibrant mocktail captures the essence of fresh blackberries combined with zesty lime, creating a refreshing beverage that's perfect for any occasion.

The deep purple hue and complex flavor profile of this drink make it an excellent choice for those seeking a sophisticated non-alcoholic alternative. The natural sweetness of blackberries pairs beautifully with the bright citrus notes, while a touch of agave nectar adds depth and smoothness to the overall experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh blackberries
• 2 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz agave nectar
• 4 oz sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Salt and sugar mix for rim
• Fresh lime wheels for garnish
• Fresh blackberries for garnish
• Fresh mint leaves (optional)

In a cocktail shaker or blender, muddle the fresh blackberries until they release their juices. Add the fresh lime juice and agave nectar, then shake vigorously with ice until well combined. Prepare your glass by running a lime wedge around the rim and dipping it in a salt-sugar mixture. Fill the glass with ice and strain the blackberry mixture into it. Top with sparkling water and gently stir to combine.

Rim maintenance is crucial for this mocktail's presentation. Use finely ground salt and sugar in equal parts for the rim, and ensure the glass rim is completely dry before applying. Store any leftover blackberry mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours, though fresh preparation is always recommended for optimal taste and presentation. If the drink is too tart, adjust the agave nectar quantity to taste, adding it gradually to maintain the proper balance of flavors.

Peach and Honey Sunshine Mix

A refreshing twist on the classic margarita, this alcohol-free Peach and Honey Sunshine Mix delivers the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The combination of fresh peaches and natural honey creates a smooth, sophisticated mocktail that's perfect for any occasion, from summer gatherings to festive celebrations.

This recipe captures the essence of a traditional margarita while offering a healthier, non-alcoholic alternative that everyone can enjoy. The natural sweetness of ripe peaches paired with honey creates a complex flavor profile that rivals its alcoholic counterpart, while fresh lime juice adds the signature citrus bite that margarita lovers crave.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 2 cups sparkling water
• Salt and sugar mixture for rim
• Ice cubes
• Fresh peach slices and lime wheels for garnish
• Fresh mint leaves (optional)

In a blender, combine the peach slices and honey until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any pulp. In a large pitcher, combine the strained peach puree with fresh lime juice and orange juice. Stir well until the honey is completely incorporated.

For serving, rim glasses with a salt and sugar mixture by running a lime wedge around the rim and dipping in the mixture. Fill glasses with ice cubes, pour the peach mixture until 2/3 full, and top with sparkling water. Gently stir to combine. Garnish with fresh peach slices, lime wheels, and optional mint leaves.

For best results, use perfectly ripe peaches that yield slightly when pressed. If fresh peaches aren't available, thawed frozen peaches can be substituted, though the flavor won't be quite as vibrant. The mocktail mix (without sparkling water) can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Add the sparkling water just before serving to maintain carbonation.

Passion Fruit-Orange Splash

A vibrant and tropical twist on the classic margarita, this Passion Fruit-Orange Splash mocktail delivers all the sophisticated flavors without the alcohol. The combination of tangy passion fruit, sweet orange juice, and lime creates a perfectly balanced drink that's both refreshing and complex.

This mocktail maintains the signature sweet-tart profile of a traditional margarita while incorporating exotic passion fruit puree for depth and character. The addition of orange juice adds natural sweetness, while sparkling water provides the effervescence that makes this drink particularly festive and suitable for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz passion fruit puree
• 2 oz fresh orange juice
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz simple syrup
• 2 oz sparkling water
• Salt and tajin mixture for rim
• Ice cubes
• Orange wheel and mint sprig for garnish

Begin by preparing your glass by running a lime wedge around the rim and dipping it in a mixture of salt and tajin. Fill the glass with ice cubes. In a cocktail shaker, combine the passion fruit puree, orange juice, lime juice, and simple syrup. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to ensure all ingredients are well combined and chilled.

Strain the mixture into your prepared glass and top with sparkling water. Gently stir to combine, being careful not to disturb the rimmed edge. Garnish with an orange wheel and a sprig of fresh mint.

For the best results, use fresh-squeezed juices and real passion fruit puree rather than artificial alternatives. The mocktail can be made in advance (except for the sparkling water) and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the sparkling water just before serving to maintain the effervescence. If passion fruit puree is unavailable, you can substitute with mango puree for a different but equally delicious tropical variation.

Cucumber-Cilantro Fresh Press

The Cucumber-Cilantro Fresh Press is a refreshing alcohol-free take on the classic margarita, perfect for those seeking a sophisticated non-alcoholic beverage. This mocktail combines the crisp, cooling qualities of cucumber with the bright, citrusy notes of lime and the herbaceous touch of fresh cilantro.

The key to achieving the perfect balance in this drink lies in the muddling technique, which releases the essential oils from the cucumber and cilantro, creating a complex flavor profile that rivals its alcoholic counterpart. The addition of fresh lime juice and agave nectar provides the signature sweet-tart combination that makes margaritas so popular.

Ingredients:

• 2 inches cucumber, sliced
• 8-10 fresh cilantro leaves
• 2 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz agave nectar
• 4 oz sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Salt and tajin for rim (optional)
• Cucumber wheel and cilantro sprig for garnish

In a cocktail shaker, gently muddle the cucumber slices and cilantro leaves until they release their flavors but aren't completely crushed. Add the fresh lime juice, agave nectar, and fill the shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to ensure proper mixing and chilling. If desired, rim a glass with salt and tajin mixture. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice, and top with sparkling water. Stir gently to combine.

For the best results, choose firm, fresh cucumbers and bright green cilantro leaves. The drink can be prepared up to an hour in advance, but add the sparkling water just before serving to maintain optimal carbonation. Consider using English cucumbers for their thinner skin and fewer seeds, which will provide a cleaner flavor profile.

Pomegranate-Tangerine Sparkler

This vibrant and refreshing alcohol-free version of a margarita combines the sweet-tart flavors of pomegranate and tangerine, creating a sophisticated mocktail that's perfect for any occasion. The addition of sparkling water adds an effervescent touch that makes this drink feel extra special.

The natural sweetness of tangerine juice balances perfectly with the slightly tart pomegranate juice, while lime adds that classic margarita citrus note. This mocktail proves that non-alcoholic beverages can be just as elegant and complex as their spirited counterparts.

Ingredients:

• 4 oz fresh tangerine juice
• 2 oz pomegranate juice
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz simple syrup
• 2 oz sparkling water
• Salt for rimming
• Ice cubes
• Tangerine slices for garnish
• Pomegranate seeds for garnish

Prepare the glass by running a lime wedge around the rim and dipping it in salt. Fill the glass with ice. In a shaker, combine tangerine juice, pomegranate juice, lime juice, and simple syrup with ice. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass and top with sparkling water.

For best results, use freshly squeezed juices whenever possible. The simple syrup can be made ahead of time by combining equal parts water and sugar, heating until dissolved, and cooling completely. This recipe can easily be scaled up to make a pitcher for entertaining.

Frozen Blue Agave Cooler

A Frozen Blue Agave Cooler offers a vibrant and refreshing non-alcoholic twist on the classic margarita. This stunning blue mocktail combines the natural sweetness of blue agave nectar with citrus elements, creating a drink that's both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying.

Perfect for summer gatherings, poolside parties, or any occasion where you want to serve a sophisticated alcohol-free beverage, this frozen cooler delivers the same sophisticated taste experience as its spirited counterpart. The combination of fresh lime juice and blue agave nectar creates a perfectly balanced sweetness while maintaining the signature tangy profile of a traditional margarita.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups crushed ice
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons blue agave nectar
• 1/4 cup blue curaçao syrup (non-alcoholic)
• 1 cup coconut water
• Coarse salt for rimming
• Lime wheels for garnish
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Begin by preparing your glass by running a lime wedge around the rim and dipping it in coarse salt. Place the glass in the freezer to chill while preparing the drink. In a high-powered blender, combine the crushed ice, fresh lime juice, blue agave nectar, blue curaçao syrup, and coconut water. Blend on high speed until the mixture reaches a smooth, slushy consistency with no ice chunks remaining.

Pour the frozen mixture into the prepared glass, being careful not to disturb the salted rim. Garnish with a fresh lime wheel and mint leaves for an elegant presentation. Serve immediately while the drink maintains its optimal frozen consistency.

For best results, ensure all ingredients are well-chilled before blending, as this helps maintain the frozen texture longer. If the mixture becomes too thin, add more crushed ice and briefly blend again. The blue curaçao syrup can be found in most specialty beverage stores or can be substituted with blue butterfly pea flower syrup for a natural alternative that provides the same striking blue color.

Guava-Chili Lime Blend

A vibrant and refreshing take on the classic margarita, this Guava-Chili Lime Blend delivers tropical sweetness balanced with zesty citrus and a subtle heat kick. The combination creates a sophisticated alcohol-free beverage that's perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion calling for a festive drink.

The natural sweetness of guava pairs beautifully with fresh lime juice, while a touch of chili adds complexity and depth that might otherwise be missing in a non-alcoholic version. This mocktail maintains the essence of a traditional margarita through careful layering of flavors and proper rim garnishing techniques.

Add guava nectar, lime juice, simple syrup, and seeded chili pepper to a blender. Blend until smooth and the chili is completely incorporated. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher to remove any pulp or chili pieces. Add coconut water and stir well to combine.

Prepare glasses by running a lime wedge around the rim and dipping in Tajín or chili-lime salt. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the guava-chili mixture over the ice. Garnish with lime wheels and optional mint leaves.

For best results, chill all ingredients before mixing, and adjust the level of chili heat by either removing the seeds before blending or using only half a pepper. The mocktail can be prepared up to 4 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator, though it's best to add ice only when serving to prevent dilution.

• 2 cups fresh guava nectar
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup simple syrup
• 1 small red chili pepper, seeded
• 2 cups coconut water
• Tajín or chili-lime salt for rimming
• Ice cubes
• Lime wheels for garnish
• Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Grapefruit-Thyme Virgin Rita

The Grapefruit-Thyme Virgin Rita offers a sophisticated non-alcoholic alternative to the classic margarita, combining the bright, citrusy notes of fresh grapefruit with the earthy, aromatic qualities of fresh thyme. This mocktail maintains the complexity and depth typically associated with its alcoholic counterpart while providing a refreshing, guilt-free experience.

The key to creating this elevated beverage lies in the careful balance of sweet, sour, and herbaceous elements. The natural tartness of grapefruit juice is complemented by a honey-thyme simple syrup, while lime juice adds the characteristic margarita tang. A salted rim and fresh garnishes complete the presentation, making it virtually indistinguishable from a traditional margarita.

Ingredients:

• 4 oz fresh grapefruit juice
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 2 oz honey-thyme simple syrup
• 4-5 fresh thyme sprigs
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup water
• Coarse salt for rim
• Ice cubes
• Grapefruit wedges for garnish

To prepare the honey-thyme simple syrup, combine honey and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add 2-3 thyme sprigs and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until honey dissolves completely. Remove from heat and let steep for 15 minutes, then strain and cool completely.

For the mocktail, run a grapefruit wedge around the rim of your serving glass and dip in coarse salt. Fill the glass with ice. In a shaker, combine fresh grapefruit juice, lime juice, and honey-thyme simple syrup with ice. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well-chilled. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass and garnish with a fresh thyme sprig and grapefruit wedge.

When making this mocktail, freshly squeezed citrus juices are essential for the best flavor – avoid using bottled juices if possible. The honey-thyme simple syrup can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, making it convenient for preparing multiple servings. If the drink is too tart, adjust the sweetness by adding more simple syrup to taste.