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Ultimate Classic Margarita Cocktail Recipe: A Zesty Tequila Delight

Ultimate Guide to Making the Perfect Classic Margarita at Home

Discover the perfect balance of tangy lime, smooth tequila, and citrusy orange liqueur in this timeless Margarita cocktail masterpiece.

The classic margarita stands as a testament to simplicity and bold flavors. This iconic drink has weathered the storm of countless variations, yet the original recipe remains unbeatable. With just three key ingredients – tequila, orange liqueur, and fresh lime juice – you’ll create a cocktail that dances on your taste buds and transports you to a sun-soaked beach.

Quality is key when crafting the perfect margarita. Opt for a premium blanco tequila that offers smooth, agave-forward notes. Fresh-squeezed lime juice is non-negotiable, providing a bright, zesty kick that bottled alternatives simply can’t match. For the orange liqueur, Cointreau is the gold standard, offering a balanced sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the other ingredients.

While the margarita’s exact origins remain shrouded in mystery, cocktail historians agree it’s likely descended from the classic daisy and sidecar recipes. In fact, “margarita” is Spanish for “daisy” – a charming connection to its cocktail lineage. This tequila-based twist on these timeless recipes adds a distinctly Mexican flair, with the salted rim providing a flavor-enhancing flourish.

Whether you’re hosting a fiesta or simply unwinding after a long day, this classic margarita recipe is your ticket to cocktail perfection. So grab your shaker, and let’s dive into the art of crafting this refreshing tequila sensation!

Classic Margarita Recipe: The Perfect Tequila Cocktail

Ingredients

  • 1 lime wedge, plus 2 lime wheels for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon coarse salt, for glass rims
  • 4 ounces (120ml) high-quality blanco tequila (see notes)
  • 2 ounces (60ml) triple sec, such as Cointreau
  • 1 1/2 ounces (45ml) fresh juice from 2 limes

Directions

  1. Prepare the glasses: Run a lime wedge around the outer rims of 2 rocks glasses. Dip the moistened rims in salt, creating a festive and flavorful border. Set aside.
  2. Mix the magic: In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, Cointreau, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when the bottom of the metal shaker frosts over, indicating the perfect chilling point.
  3. Serve and garnish: Fill your prepared glasses with fresh ice. Strain the margarita mixture evenly into both glasses. Garnish each drink with a lime wheel, perched elegantly on the rim. Serve immediately and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors in your homemade classic margarita!

Notes

For optimal results, use a high-quality blanco tequila in this recipe. If you’re working with a budget-friendly brand that might be a bit harsh, try this adjustment: Swap the proportions of Cointreau and lime juice, and add 1/4 ounce of simple syrup to each drink. This will help smooth out the flavors and ensure a delicious margarita experience.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)
206 Calories
0g Fat
13g Carbs
0g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 2
Amount per serving
Calories 206
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 0g 0%
Saturated Fat 0g 0%
Cholesterol 0mg 0%
Sodium 293mg 13%
Total Carbohydrate 13g 5%
Dietary Fiber 1g 4%
Total Sugars 8g
Protein 0g
Vitamin C 17mg 84%
Calcium 15mg 1%
Iron 0mg 1%
Potassium 63mg 1%
*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

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