It’s more than just alliteration; it’s a statement, a proclamation that Thursdays are when the weekend should really start. Kicking it off right is the key, and what better way than with a cocktail that not only takes the edge off, but tastes good too. A hard thing to disagree with, we know. Drink up, get down and go to sleep happy.

Margaritas — a staple summer beverage if there ever was one — are just meant to combat the hot, sticky dog days of summer. While a classic margarita is perfectly delicious in itself, there is also so much potential for adding other exciting flavors.

Take, for example, this Cucumber-Jalapeño Margarita. The traditional fresh lime juice and silver tequila are mixed with savory slices of cucumber and fiery halved jalapeños. The intensity of the spiciness is up to you: the longer it sits and chills, the spicier it becomes. Perhaps this is what it means to fight fire with fire.

Bottoms up, folks!

Cucumber-Jalapeño Margarita

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/2 cup white tequila
• 1/4 cup orange liqueur, such as Grand Marnier
• 1/4 cup simple syrup, or more as needed
• 4 thin slices cucumber
• 1 jalapeño, halved lengthwise
• Ice, for serving
• Salt for glass rims, optional

Directions:

Mix together the lime juice, tequila, orange liqueur, simple syrup, cucumber and jalapeños in a large pitcher. Chill for at least 1 hour (the longer the margarita sits, the more the cucumber and jalapeño flavors infuse into the drink).

Serve over ice in salt-rimmed glasses.

Still thirsty? Check out Cooking Channel’s best summer drinks and cocktails.