The Classic Margarita is a must-try this summer. This iconic drink combines tequila, lime juice, and triple sec. Its refreshing balance has made it a global favorite.
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Easy Margarita recipe
The classic margarita is one of the most iconic and beloved cocktails worldwide. This iconic drink is a variation of a classic sidecar. It’s renowned for its combination of tartness, sweetness, and a touch of bitterness.
The origin of the Margarita dates back to the 1930s when Carlos “Danny” Herrera, a bartender at Rancho La Gloria in Tijuana, Mexico, crafted the cocktail for a customer allergic to all spirits except tequila.
Margaritas can be served in various styles, including shaken with ice (on the rocks), blended with ice (frozen), or straight up without ice. This cocktail is so popular that it has its own national day – February 22nd. Here is how to make the Classic Margarita.
Classic Margarita
Ingredients
- 2 oz tequila Patrón Silver tequila, reposado, or añejo tequila
- 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 oz triple sec or orange liqueur
- 1 tsp simple syrup adjust to taste
- Salt for rimming the glass
- Ice cubes
- Lime wheel for garnish
Instructions
- Rim the edge of a glass with salt by rubbing a lime wedge along the rim of the glass to moisten it, then dipping the rim into a shallow plate with salt. This step is optional, but it adds a nice contrast of flavours to the drink.
- Fill a shaker with ice cubes. Pour in the tequila, freshly squeezed lime juice, triple sec (or orange liqueur), and simple syrup.
- Place the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This chills and properly mixes the ingredients.
- Strain the cocktail mixture into the prepared glass over fresh ice cubes.
- Garnish the drink with a lime wheel on the rim of the glass.
Notes
Nutrition
SIMILAR RECIPES
How to pair
A classic margarita is paired with various dishes to enhance its flavors.
- Enchiladas create a rich margarita pairing.
- Tacos (Beef, Chicken, or Vegetarian) complement the margarita’s tanginess.
- Gazpacho contrasts with the margarita’s flavors.
- Shrimp Ceviche enhances the margarita’s citrus flavors.
- Fish Tacos is a great pair.
- Chips and Salsa balance the margarita’s taste.
- Citrus Salad boosts the margarita’s citrusy notes.
- Citrus-Marinated Grilled Chicken enhances the margarita’s flavor.
- Jalapeño Poppers or Spicy Dishes are balanced by the margarita’s coolness.
- Strawberries and Goat Cheese contrast with the margarita.
- Watermelon and Fresh Mozzarella form a refreshing pairing.
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers enhances margarita’s tangy taste.
Margarita variations
Here are some popular variations besides the classic margarita recipe:
- Frozen margarita recipe blends with ice for a refreshing slushy drink. It’s ideal for hot summer days and adds a smooth texture.
- Flavored margaritas infuse the drink with fruit flavors. Popular options include mango, cranberry, raspberry, dragon fruit, pomegranate, strawberry, guava, watermelon, peach, passion fruit, and pineapple.
- Spicy version adds a kick with muddled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. The contrast between the heat and tangy citrus creates an exciting, bold combination.
- Mezcal margarita substitutes tequila with mezcal for a smoky flavor.
- Cadillac margarita uses high-quality tequila and premium orange liqueur.
- Coconut margarita incorporates coconut cream or milk for a tropical twist.
- Cucumber jalapeño margarita muddles cucumber and jalapeño slices, offering a refreshing and spicy take.
- Blackberry sage margarita blends blackberries and sage leaves for a sophisticated, aromatic version. The herbal sage complements the sweet-tart blackberries beautifully.
- Hibiscus margarita infuses the cocktail with hibiscus syrup or steeped petals.
- Watermelon basil margarita combines blended watermelon chunks and fresh basil leaves for a summery, herbaceous variation.
- Skinny margarita recipe uses agave tequila, fresh lime juice, reduced-calorie triple sec, and a splash of club soda. It skips the sugary rim and is garnished with a lime wheel.
Margarita variations allow for creativity, but balance is key. Whether you prefer a fruity, spicy, or smoky twist, there’s a Margarita for every taste.