How to Make the Perfect Margarita

A classic margarita served in a salt-rimmed glass with a lime wedge garnish

By now you know that every weekend I usually share with you one recipe of a timeless cocktail, and on today’s episode we look at how to make the perfect Margarita. Most cocktails will serve their intended purpose, but few carry the same universal charm as the margarita? Why? Because a margarita is the type of drink that fits effortlessly into any occasion. Hosting a summer barbecue? The margarita has got you covered. Unwinding after a long day or celebrating with friends? It’s still got your back. 

As a global favorite, the secret about the perfect margarita isn’t about fancy equipment or a bar full of ingredients but quality components and knowing how to play around with them.

The Classic Margarita Recipe

The margarita is a simple cocktail that consists of tequila, lime and orange liqueur. Three simple ingredients that can create pure magic.

To make a glass, you will need;

  • 60 ml of good-quality tequila (blanco or reposado)
  • 30 ml of freshly squeezed lime juice (about 1 medium lime)
  • 15–30 ml orange liqueur e.g Cointreau or Triple Sec
  • 15 ml simple syrup or agave nectar
  • Ice cubes
  • Coarse salt for the rim
  • Lime wedge

Run a lime wedge around the top of your glass, dip it into coarse salt and then set it aside.

Bring out your cocktail shaker and in it combine tequila, lime juice, orange liqueur and sweetener (this is optional). Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.

Strain into your prepared glass that has fresh ice and garnish with a lime wedge.

How to Make the Perfect Martini 

My little secrets to a Perfect margarita 

Everyone can make a margarita, but how do you make the perfect one? I will share with you some of my sure bet tips. For instance;

I always make sure to use fresh lime juice as bottled lime juice never quite captures the same brightness and tang. Not only do I make sure it’s fresh, I also squeeze my limes right before mixing to get the freshest flavor.

Choose the best quality tequila and avoid mixto tequilas.

Don’t skip the salt rim. The salted edge isn’t just for aesthetics but enhances the flavors in the drink.

Finally, shake, don’t stir . Shaking with ice chills and blends the drink perfectly.

These are the golden rules that if followed allows for every margarita you make to feel like a small work of art.

How To Make The Perfect Lemonade 

If you are the adventurous type, here are some of my fav variations you could try out

  • Frozen Mango Margarita.

 Blend the classic recipe with frozen mango chunks and ice to get a sweet, tropical and smooth finishing

  • Skinny Margarita 

The skinny margarita is one that is made minus the sweetener. Use just tequila, lime juice and orange liqueur. 

  • Strawberry Basil Margarita 

Add some fresh strawberries and a few basil leaves before shaking for that fruity refreshing herbal twist.

For the margarita, the beauty lies in its simplicity. A few simple fresh ingredients shaken together to create something truly special. So grab some limes, salt the rim and raise your glass. 

Here’s to genuine company and the perfect margarita.

A classic margarita served in a salt-rimmed glass with a lime wedge garnish

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