In a measuring pitcher or mixing container combine 1 cup fresh lime juice, 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (or 1/4 cup Cointreau if substituting), 1/4 cup agave syrup (or simple syrup) and 1/4 cup cold water. Stir vigorously until agave is fully dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness: add up to 1–2 tablespoons more agave if you prefer sweeter.

Alcohol

Combine with spirits

Add 1 cup blanco tequila and 1/2 cup Cointreau or Triple Sec to the prepared margarita mix. Stir to combine. If making a flavored variation, stir in 1/2 cup fruit purée (mango or strawberry) or add muddled jalapeño/cucumber now and strain later if you want a smooth margarita.

Glass Finish & Garnish

Prepare the glass rims

Pour 1/2 tablespoon coarse salt onto a small plate. Take 4 (6–8 oz) serving glasses and run a lime wedge around the outside of the rim then the inside rim. Dip the rim lightly into the salt and twist to coat evenly. Set glasses aside.

Shake or serve on the rocks

For shaken margaritas: Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Add about 6 ounces (3/4 cup) of the prepared margarita mixture per cocktail (adjust to taste). Shake vigorously for 12–15 seconds, then strain into the prepared salt-rimmed glass over fresh ice. For frozen margaritas: blend 3/4 cup margarita mixture with 1 cup ice until smooth and pour into rimmed glasses. For on-the-rocks pitcher service: fill each glass with ice and pour 6–8 ounces of the margarita mixture over ice.

Garnish and finish

Garnish each glass with a lime wedge on the rim. If using a flavored variation, add a small slice of fruit (mango or strawberry) or a thin jalapeño/cucumber slice as garnish. Serve immediately.