Classic Margarita Recipe

Classic Margarita

1. 1

   Prepare the glass

   Chill a rocks or coupe glass by filling it with ice water while you prepare the cocktail (optional). Take a lime wedge and rub it around the outer rim of the glass. Pour coarse salt onto a small plate, then gently press the moistened rim into the salt to form an even salt rim. Empty the glass of ice water and set aside.

2. 2

   Measure and combine

   Fill a cocktail shaker with ice (about 1 cup). Add 2 oz blanco tequila, 1 oz orange liqueur, 1 oz fresh lime juice, and 0.5 oz simple syrup into the shaker.

3. 3

   Shake

   Secure the shaker lid and shake vigorously for 12–15 seconds until the outside of the shaker is frosty and well-chilled. This chills and slightly dilutes the cocktail to balance flavors.

4. 4

   Strain and serve

   Discard ice from the chilled glass if used. Fine-strain (or double-strain if you prefer no ice shards) the cocktail from the shaker into the prepared glass over fresh ice (or serve neat in a chilled coupe).

5. 5

   Garnish

   Garnish with the reserved lime wedge on the rim or a thin wheel floated on the surface. Serve immediately.

6. 6

   Notes: If you prefer a slightly tarter drink, omit the simple syrup. For a sweeter profile increase simple syrup to 0.75–1 oz. Use high-quality blanco tequila and fresh lime juice for the best flavor. To make a pitcher (6 servings), multiply ingredients by 6 and combine in a pitcher with ice; stir briefly and strain into glasses rimmed with salt.