Name: Classic Margarita
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 2 oz tequila (blanco); 1 oz fresh lime juice; 1 oz orange liqueur (like Cointreau or Triple Sec); ½ oz agave syrup (optional, to taste); Ice; Coarse salt and lime wedge for garnish; 2 cups (16 oz) tequila (preferably blanco or reposado); 1 cup (8 oz) orange liqueur (like Cointreau or triple sec); 1 cup (8 oz) freshly squeezed lime juice (about 8–10 limes); 1/4 to 1/3 cup agave syrup or simple syrup, to taste; Ice; Lime wedges & coarse salt for rimming glasses

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This classic margarita is the perfect balance of tart lime, smooth tequila, and sweet orange liqueur—served over ice with a salted rim for the ultimate refreshing cocktail.

Classic Margarita

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The classic margarita is a timeless cocktail that brings vibrant, zesty flavors to any gathering. With just a few quality ingredients—fresh lime juice, smooth tequila, and a splash of orange liqueur—this drink is simple, elegant, and endlessly refreshing. Whether you’re enjoying one solo or shaking up a batch for a fiesta, this margarita delivers the ideal mix of tangy citrus and spirited warmth. Serve over ice in a salt-rimmed glass for that iconic finishing touch. It’s the kind of drink that turns ordinary moments into celebratory ones.

Author: Kari Jean your Joyista
Prep Time: 5
Total Time: 5 minutes
Category: Beverage
Method: No cook

Instructions

Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass and dip it in salt.
Shake all ingredients with ice until well chilled.
Strain into a glass over fresh ice.
Garnish with a lime wheel.

Pitcher:

Rim the Glasses (Optional): Run a lime wedge around the rims of your glasses and dip into coarse salt.
Mix the Pitcher: In a large pitcher, combine tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and sweetener. Stir well.
Taste & Adjust: Add more sweetener or lime juice if desired.
Chill: Refrigerate for 1–2 hours, or serve immediately over ice.
Serve: Fill glasses with ice, pour in margaritas, garnish with lime wedge.

Notes

Tips

Glassware Recommendation: Serve in a classic rocks glass or margarita coupe for a traditional presentation. Chill glasses ahead of time for the best experience.
Tequila Tips: Use a good-quality blanco or reposado tequila—100% agave—for the cleanest flavor.
Lime Juice: Always use freshly squeezed lime juice. Bottled lime juice can give your margaritas a harsh or artificial taste.
Sweetener Options: Adjust the sweetness to your liking. You can use agave syrup, simple syrup, or even honey syrup for a twist.
Salt Rim Options: Try smoked salt, Tajín, or sugar rims for a unique touch.

🍽️ Pairings

Chips & Guacamole – like the Fiesta Citrus Guacamole 🍊🥑
Ceviche or Shrimp Tacos – fresh, citrusy dishes complement the margarita’s tang.
Grilled Street Corn (Elote) – rich and spicy flavors contrast beautifully with the drink’s acidity.
Quesadillas or Nachos – comfort food classics that go great with the bold lime profile.

🌈 Flavor Variations

Spicy Margarita: Add a slice of jalapeño to the shaker or infuse your tequila with chiles.
Mango or Pineapple Margarita: Blend in or muddle fresh fruit for a tropical version.
Strawberry Margarita: Use fresh or frozen strawberries and blend for a vibrant, pink twist.
Smoky Margarita: Substitute a portion of tequila with mezcal for a smoky edge.
Herbal Twist: Add a few basil or mint leaves to the shaker for a refreshing herbal lift.

Tips for the Perfect Frozen Margarita:

Use Crushed Ice: Blend with crushed ice for a smoother consistency and to reduce wear on your blender.
Chill Ingredients First: Chill your tequila, lime juice, and syrup before blending—this helps your frozen margarita stay slushy longer without watering down.
Balance is Key: Frozen margaritas can dull some flavors. Taste after blending and adjust with more lime or sweetener as needed.
Add a Touch of Orange Liqueur: For that classic flavor boost, don’t skip the Cointreau or Triple Sec—even a splash helps balance the icy blend.
Avoid Over-blending: Blend just until smooth. Over-blending will make it too thin and melt too fast.
Alcohol-Free Version: For a mocktail version, use orange juice and lime juice with a splash of soda and plenty of ice.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 (pitcher 8 servings)
Calories: 200-220
Carbohydrates: 12-16