Introduction
If you think Bloody Marys are just a tomato juice-based brunch staple, get ready for a spicy, citrusy, and herbaceous surprise. The Green Bloody Mary is a bold reinvention of the classic cocktail, swapping out the usual red tomatoes for fresh tomatillos and golden yellow tomatoes. This change doesn’t just make the drink look vibrant—it adds layers of flavor that are tart, slightly sweet, and refreshingly savory. Whether you’re planning a lazy weekend brunch or looking for a unique cocktail to impress your guests, this recipe is your new go-to. And don’t worry—it still packs that signature Bloody Mary punch, thanks to the jalapeño and a few other fiery additions.
Why You’ll Love Green Bloody Mary Recipe
This Green Bloody Mary is not just a cocktail—it’s a sensory experience. Here are a few reasons why it deserves a spot in your repertoire:
- Visually Stunning: The green hue is a fresh change from the traditional red, making it perfect for themed brunches or Instagram-worthy spreads.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of tomatillos, yellow tomatoes, and jalapeño offers a unique flavor profile that is tangy, slightly sweet, and just the right amount of spicy.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level, saltiness, and even the base spirit to suit your preferences.
- Naturally Fresh: Packed with fresh produce and herbs, it’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.
- Perfect for Brunch: This drink pairs well with everything from avocado toast to chorizo breakfast tacos.
Ingredients Needed
- 6 fresh tomatillos, husked and rinsed
- 4 large yellow tomatoes
- 1 jalapeño (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 celery stalks
- Juice of 2 limes
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon celery salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- A pinch of smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 cup vodka
- Ice cubes
- Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, cilantro, or celery leaves)
- Lime wedges, celery stalks, or pickled vegetables for garnish
Necessary Tools for Green Bloody Mary Recipe
- Blender or food processor
- Fine mesh strainer (optional, for smoother texture)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Pitcher or large mixing bowl
- Cocktail shaker (optional)
- Serving glasses (tall highball or pint glasses)
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
- Tomatillos: If unavailable, green heirloom tomatoes can be a good alternative, although they’re less tangy.
- Yellow Tomatoes: Orange or golden cherry tomatoes can work in a pinch.
- Jalapeño: Swap for serrano if you prefer more heat, or use green bell pepper for a non-spicy version.
- Vodka: Gin, tequila (for a Green Bloody Maria), or even mezcal adds an exciting smoky note.
- Hot Sauce: Add sriracha or a dash of green Tabasco for extra heat.
- Herbs: Try basil or mint for a fresher twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Vegetables: Remove husks from tomatillos, rinse, and roughly chop. Quarter the yellow tomatoes and celery. If using jalapeño, remove seeds for milder heat.
- Blend the Base: In a high-speed blender, combine tomatillos, yellow tomatoes, celery, jalapeño, lime juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, celery salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and water. Blend until smooth.
- Strain (Optional): For a smoother drink, pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a large bowl or pitcher.
- Mix with Vodka: Stir in vodka and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill and meld the flavors.
- Prepare the Glasses: Rub lime around the rims and dip in celery salt or Tajín. Fill with ice.
- Serve: Pour the chilled Green Bloody Mary mix over the ice. Garnish with herbs, lime wedges, celery stalks, or pickled veggies.
Pro Tips for Success of Green Bloody Mary Recipe
- Balance is Key: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Too tangy? Add a dash of honey. Too thick? Add a splash of cold water.
- Infuse for Flavor: Let the mix sit in the fridge overnight for deeper flavors.
- Customize Garnishes: Try olives, mini cucumbers, or even shrimp skewers for a gourmet touch.
- Use Chilled Ingredients: Cold vegetables blend better and make the drink instantly refreshing.
- Pitcher-Perfect: Double the batch for easy serving at brunch parties.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Brunch Pairings: Pair with egg-based dishes like omelets, huevos rancheros, or frittatas.
- Mexican-Inspired Brunch: Serve alongside breakfast tacos, enchiladas verdes, or quesadillas.
- Charcuterie Add-On: Offer as a cocktail option at a savory charcuterie brunch spread.
- Garnish Galore: Let guests choose their own garnish adventure with a Bloody Mary bar.
- Mocktail Version: Omit the vodka and replace with soda water for a fresh, non-alcoholic version.
Storing and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover mix in an airtight pitcher in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Shake Before Serving: Ingredients may separate, so give it a good stir or shake.
- Freezing: Pour into ice cube trays to freeze and blend later into slushy-style cocktails.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Alcohol: 1.5oz vodka (per serving)
FAQs – Green Bloody Mary Recipe
1. Can I make this Green Bloody Mary ahead of time? Yes! Make it a day ahead and store it chilled. The flavors get even better with time.
2. Is this drink vegan? Yes, all ingredients listed are plant-based. Just double-check your Worcestershire sauce brand.
3. What if I don’t have a blender? You can use a food processor or immersion blender. Strain afterward for a smoother texture.
4. How do I reduce the heat? Remove seeds from the jalapeño or skip it entirely. You can also reduce or omit the hot sauce.
5. Can I use canned tomatillos? Fresh is best, but canned tomatillos (drained) will work if that’s all you have.
Conclusion
This Green Bloody Mary is a vibrant, modern twist on a timeless cocktail. It brings the freshness of garden produce, the tang of tomatillos, and a customizable spice level that makes it unforgettable. Whether you’re a brunch enthusiast or a cocktail connoisseur, this drink is bound to become a favorite. Try it once, and you’ll never go back to the red version.
Ready for more inventive drink ideas? Explore our collection of creative cocktails and fresh brunch recipes to elevate your next gathering.
