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Classic Margarita Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 33 reviews
  • Author: Angela
  • Prep Time: 3 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 minutes
  • Yield: 1 cocktail
  • Category: Cocktail
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Description

This Classic Margarita recipe delivers a perfectly balanced and refreshing cocktail featuring tangy lime juice, smooth tequila, and orange-flavored Cointreau, served chilled with a salted glass rim. It’s a timeless favorite ideal for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Glass Rim

  • Sea Salt or Kosher Salt, enough to coat the rim
  • 1 Lime wedge or wheel, for rimming the glass and garnish

For the Cocktail

  • 1 oz (30 ml) freshly squeezed lime juice (about 1 medium lime)
  • 1 oz (30 ml) Cointreau
  • 2 oz (60 ml) tequila (preferably blanco or reposado)
  • Ice cubes, as needed


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Glass Rim: Take a lime wedge and run it firmly along the entire top rim of a cocktail glass to moisten it. Pour sea salt or kosher salt onto a small plate. Dip the moistened rim into the salt to coat it evenly. Finally, fill the glass with ice cubes.
  2. Mix the Margarita: In a cocktail shaker, combine the freshly squeezed lime juice, Cointreau, and tequila. Add a handful of ice cubes to the shaker. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds until the mixture is well chilled.
  3. Serve: Strain the shaken mixture over the prepared ice-filled glass, ensuring no ice shards pass through. Garnish with a fresh lime slice or wheel on the rim for an inviting presentation.

Notes

  • Use fresh lime juice for the best citrus flavor; bottled lime juice will result in a less vibrant taste.
  • Choose a high-quality tequila like blanco or reposado for smoother flavor.
  • If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, add a teaspoon of agave syrup or simple syrup before shaking.
  • To salt the glass rim evenly, use fine salt rather than coarse salt.
  • For a frozen margarita, blend the ingredients with crushed ice instead of shaking.