You can never go wrong with a margarita. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, celebrating Taco Tuesday, or just craving something refreshing, this classic drink is always a crowd-pleaser. Margarita is a tequila cocktail. It’s a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and salty, with a splash of citrus to wake up your taste buds.
Searching for the ultimate margarita recipe? By the time you’re done reading, you’ll know exactly how to make a margarita that’s as good or better than the ones you order at your favorite bar.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- 2 ounces of tequila (go for a good quality blanco or reposado tequila)
- 1 ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 ounce of orange liqueur (like Cointreau or Triple Sec)
- ½ ounce of simple syrup or agave nectar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Ice
- Salt for rimming the glass (optional but highly recommended)
Tools
- A cocktail shaker
- A jigger or measuring tool
- A lime wedge for rimming the glass and garnish
- A rock glass or margarita glass
How to Make a Single-Serving Margarita
Step 1: Prep Your Glass
If you like a salted rim, grab a lime wedge and run it around the edge of your glass. Then, dip the rim into some coarse Kosher salt. It’s a quick step that adds a lot of flavor.
Step 2: Mix Everything Together
In a cocktail shaker, combine your tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and some ice cubes. Don’t have a shaker? No worries—you can mix everything in a measuring cup or even shake it up in a mason jar.
Step 3: Shake It Up
Shake the mixture vigorously for about 10 seconds until it’s nice and chilled. If you’re stirring instead, give it a good mix until everything is combined and cold.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Take a quick sip of your margarita mix. If you think it could use a little sweetness, add a teaspoon or two of agave nectar or simple syrup. Stir or shake it in, and taste again until it’s just how you like it.
Step 5: Strain and Serve
Place a few ice cubes in the serving glass, strain the margarita, and garnish with a slice of lime.
How to Make a Pitcher of Margaritas
Step 1: Prep the Glasses
Salt the rims of the glasses first. Run a lime wedge around the edge of each glass, then dip the rims into coarse Kosher salt.
Step 2: Mix It All Up
In a large pitcher, combine your tequila, freshly squeezed lime juice, and orange liqueur. Toss in a handful of ice and give it a good stir. The ice will help keep everything chill while blending the flavors beautifully.
Step 3: Taste and Sweeten (if needed)
Take a sip of the mix to see if it needs a bit more sweetness. Add a tablespoon or two of agave or simple syrup at a time, stirring in between, until you get the flavor just right.
Step 4: Serve Over Ice
Fill the glasses with ice. Big cubes are great if you want to keep the drink cold without watering it down too quickly. Pour the margarita mix into the glasses, garnishing with a lime slice.
Tips for Margarita Perfection
- Choose the Right Tequila: Since a margarita is a tequila cocktail, the tequila you pick really matters. A blanco tequila will give you a crisp, clean flavor, while a reposado adds a bit of oakiness.
- Fresh Is Best: Always use freshly squeezed lime juice. Bottled lime juice just doesn’t compare and can make your drink taste off.
- Adjust to Your Taste: Prefer a sweeter margarita? Add a little extra simple syrup or agave. Want it stronger? Add another splash of tequila.
- Experiment With Flavors: Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, try adding a twist! Fresh fruit like strawberries, mango, or watermelon can take your margarita to the next level.
Margarita FAQs
What does “margarita” mean?
Margarita translates to “daisy” in Spanish.
Where did margaritas come from?
Margaritas have their roots in Mexico’s rich food and drink culture, but their exact origin story is a bit of a mystery. Some say the cocktail gained popularity during Prohibition when Americans crossed the border to Mexico for alcohol and fell in love with tequila. Over time, the margarita made its way back to the U.S. and quickly became a favorite.
How are margaritas traditionally served?
Traditionally, margaritas are served as a strong, flavorful cocktail in a classic margarita glass with a salted rim. Unlike the giant, diluted versions you might see at some restaurants, the original margarita is all about balance—bold tequila, tangy lime, and a touch of orange liqueur, all packed with flavor.
Enjoy Your Homemade Margarita
Now that you know how to make the perfect margarita, you’re all set to impress your friends—or just treat yourself to a little piece of cocktail heaven. The beauty of a margarita is that you can customize it to fit your mood and taste. So don’t be afraid to get creative with it.