A classic margarita is one of the easiest and most satisfying cocktails you can make at home. With its perfect balance of tangy lime juice, smooth tequila, and sweet orange liqueur, this refreshing drink is a go-to for happy hours, dinner parties, or unwinding after a long day.

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Cuisine: Mexican
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 0 mins
Total Time: 5 mins
Servings: 1

Why You’ll Love Making It

• Refreshing & Classic – The perfect balance of tangy lime, smooth tequila, and a touch of sweetness.
• Beginner-Friendly – Simple ingredients and easy steps make it a foolproof cocktail.
• Customizable – Adjust the sweetness, rim the glass with salt or sugar, or make it frozen.
• Great for Entertaining – A crowd-pleaser for any occasion, from taco night to summer gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons Diamond Crystal kosher salt – Used for rimming the glass to enhance the drink’s flavor. If using table salt, use less.
• 1 medium lime – Fresh lime juice is key for the best taste. Avoid bottled juice for a fresher, brighter flavor.
• Ice – Chills the drink and ensures a smooth texture when shaken.
• 1 1/2 ounces blanco or silver tequila – A good-quality 100% agave tequila provides the best flavor. Blanco tequila is crisp and clean.
• 1 ounce orange liqueur (preferably Cointreau) – Adds a citrusy sweetness and depth. Triple sec or Grand Marnier also work.
• 1/4 ounce agave nectar or simple syrup (optional) – Balances the tartness of lime if you prefer a slightly sweeter margarita.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Glass

Spread 2 teaspoons of salt evenly on a small plate. Cut a lime wedge from a medium lime, then juice the remaining lime until you have 1 ounce. Run the lime wedge around the rim of an Old-Fashioned or margarita glass to moisten it, then dip the rim into the salt. Rotate the glass slightly to coat evenly. Fill the glass with ice and set it aside.

Step 2: Mix the Margarita

In a cocktail shaker, combine 1 1/2 ounces blanco tequila, 1 ounce orange liqueur, and 1/4 ounce agave nectar or simple syrup (if using). Add 1 ounce fresh lime juice and fill the shaker halfway with ice. Seal the shaker and shake vigorously for 20 seconds, until the outside feels frosty and cold.

Step 3: Strain & Serve

Using a fine-mesh strainer, pour the margarita into your prepared glass over fresh ice. Garnish with the reserved lime wedge, serve immediately, and enjoy!

FAQs

Can I make a margarita without a cocktail shaker?
Yes! If you don’t have a shaker, use a mason jar with a lid or stir the ingredients with ice in a mixing glass before straining into your prepared glass.

What’s the best way to make a frozen margarita?
To make a frozen margarita, blend all the ingredients with 1 cup of ice until smooth. Serve in a salt-rimmed glass for a slushy, refreshing twist!

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