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Vibrant green margarita cocktail with a lime wedge

Perfectly balanced tequila-lime cocktail

Classic Margarita

Classic Margarita

5 minEasy

Prep Time

5 min

Cook Time

0 min

Total Time

5 min

Servings

1

1 cocktail

Difficulty

Easy

Cost

Moderate

$$

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Classic Margarita

Perfectly balanced tequila-lime cocktail

A perfectly balanced margarita with fresh lime juice, quality tequila, and orange liqueur. This classic cocktail is bright, citrusy, and refreshing without being overly sweet.

5m

Prep Time

0m

Cook Time

5m

Total Time

1

Servings

Easy

Difficulty

Moderate $$

Cost

Mexican CuisineSnackVeganGluten-FreeDairy-Free
Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen

February 2, 2024(Updated April 13, 2026)

A great margarita needs only three ingredients and fresh lime juice—no sour mix required. The ratio of tequila to lime to orange liqueur creates a perfectly balanced cocktail every time.

Why This Recipe Works

Fresh lime juice provides the bright acidity that is the soul of a margarita. Orange liqueur adds subtle sweetness and complexity that simple syrup alone cannot replicate.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz blanco tequila
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1 oz Cointreau or triple sec
  • 1/2 oz agave syrup (optional)
  • Coarse salt for rim
  • Ice and lime wedge for garnish

Instructions

  1. 1

    Run a lime wedge around the rim of a rocks glass and dip in coarse salt.

  2. 2

    Combine tequila, lime juice, Cointreau, and agave syrup in a cocktail shaker.

  3. 3

    Fill shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds until very cold.

  4. 4

    Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice.

  5. 5

    Garnish with a lime wheel or wedge and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Ways to Serve This Dish

  • Serve with warm corn tortillas and fresh lime wedges

  • Top with crumbled queso fresco and sliced avocado

  • Pair with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans

  • Arrange on a platter for easy sharing at your next gathering

Substitutions

CointreauTriple sec or Grand Marnier

Triple sec is sweeter; Grand Marnier is richer

Agave syrupSimple syrup

Slightly different sweetness profile but works well

Tips & Storage

Pro Tips

  • Always use fresh-squeezed lime juice—bottled juice will taste flat and artificial.

  • Use 100% agave tequila for a cleaner-tasting, smoother margarita.

Storage

Serve immediately. Not suitable for storage.

Reheating

Not applicable—serve fresh and cold.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (0mg) · 1 servings

Calories200
LowModerateHigh

A light, low-calorie option · based on a 2,000 cal daily diet

Protein0g
Carbohydrates0g
Fat12g
Fiber580mg
Sugar0g
Sodium8g

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Shaken or on the rocks?
Shake with ice and strain over fresh ice for the best temperature and dilution.
What tequila should I use?
Blanco (silver) tequila for a classic margarita. Reposado for a smoother, oakier version.

Explore More

More Mexican RecipesMore SnackVegan RecipesGluten-Free RecipesDairy-Free RecipesNo-Cook Recipes
Sarah Chen

About Sarah Chen

Sarah Chen is a professional recipe developer and food editor with over a decade of experience in test kitchens and food media. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America before spending six years developing and testing recipes for national food publications, where she honed her ability to translate restaurant techniques into approachable home cooking. At RecipePool, Sarah leads recipe development, ensuring every dish is tested at least three times for clarity, accuracy, and genuine deliciousness. When she is not in the kitchen, she is browsing farmers markets and collecting vintage cookbooks.

View all recipes →

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