Perfect Classic Margarita Recipe - Self Proclaimed Foodie (2024)

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The most perfect classic Margarita recipe made with fresh lime juice, simple syrup, orange liqueur, and tequila is quick and easy to make. This extremely strong lip smacking tequila co*cktail served over ice is the best drink!

Perfect Classic Margarita Recipe - Self Proclaimed Foodie (1)

Table of Contents

  • Do you need any special equipment?
  • How to make this classic margarita
  • How much tequila do you use?
  • What is the best tequila for a margarita?
  • National Margarita Day
  • Love tasty co*cktail and mocktail recipes?
  • The Best Classic Margarita Recipe Recipe

Do you need any special equipment?

The only piece of equipment you need to make a margarita is a co*cktail shaker. But is a co*cktail shaker really necessary to make a margarita? Not really. The only thing a co*cktail shaker does is thoroughly mix the liquid with ice to properly chill the drink. Then it strains the chilled margarita into a glass with fresh ice. This results in an ice cold drink that won’t quickly melt the ice and get watered down.

If you want to enjoy a blended margarita, you’ll need to use a blender, of course.

There are many times, however, that I’ve mixed a margarita with nothing more than a spoon in my glass. I’m sure hardcore margarita enthusiasts would be appalled, but sometimes its all about minimizing the kitchen mess.

Perfect Classic Margarita Recipe - Self Proclaimed Foodie (2)

How to make this classic margarita

  • If you don’t already have simple syrup on hand, it’s super easy to make and it lasts for a long time if refrigerated. That being said, go make some simple syrup to have on hand right now!
  • Margaritas are best, in my opinion, with salt around the rim of your glass. This is totally optional, but my preference. If you want to take things a bit further, mix a little sugar and lime zest in with your salt. YUM! Then fill that glass with ice.
  • To mix the margarita, you simply add the tequila, simple syrup, lime juice and orange liqueur to a co*cktail shaker filled with ice. Shake for about 30 seconds to get it nice and chilled.
  • Pour the chilled margarita through the strainer into your prepared glass and enjoy!

How much tequila do you use?

This is truly a matter of preference, but the rule I’ve always lived by is that half of my margarita is tequila.

The ratio I’ve always used is four parts tequila, 2 parts lime juice, 1 part simple syrup, and 1 part orange liqueur. For me, that recipe is not only easy to remember but it’s the perfect balance of sweet and sour and wow. Feel free to adjust my margarita recipe to your own personal taste.

Perfect Classic Margarita Recipe - Self Proclaimed Foodie (3)

What is the best tequila for a margarita?

Again, everyone has their preferences but I much prefer silver tequila in a margarita. If you’re entertaining for a crowd, you can always go with an inexpensive option. I mean, you’re mixing the tequila with a few other things so it’s not as obvious if you’re not using a high quality tequila.

When I’m out or want to just do it right, I usually prefer to go with Patron silver.

National Margarita Day

If you need any further convincing that a classic margarita is a fantastic co*cktail, just remember that this drink is celebrated with it’s own holiday! This year, National Margarita Day was on February 22.

What does that mean? That means that we all have yet another reason to enjoy, and celebrate this sacred tequila lime drink. Collectively. That’s right. As if any of us needed an excuse to enjoy drinking a delicious margarita, but because of National Margarita Day we can all do it together.

Perfect Classic Margarita Recipe - Self Proclaimed Foodie (4)

Love tasty co*cktail and mocktail recipes?

Then you’ll definitely want to try these:

  • Virgin Mango Lime Margarita
  • Blended Watermelon Margarita
  • Horchata
  • Blueberry Thyme Crush co*cktail
  • Tequila Pina Colada
  • Sparkling Red Sangria Recipe

The Best Classic Margarita Recipe

Prep5 minutes mins

Total5 minutes mins

Servings 1 serving

Author Krissy Allori

Perfect Classic Margarita Recipe - Self Proclaimed Foodie (5)

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The most perfect classic Margarita recipe is quick and easy to make. This lip smacking tequila co*cktail served over ice is the best drink!

Video

Ingredients

  • 4 ounces tequila silver recommended
  • 2 ounces lime juice freshly squeezed (more if you like it tart)
  • 1 ounce Simple Syrup recipe link in notes
  • 1 ounce orange liqueur Grand Marnier

For rim of glass:

Instructions

  • Fill a co*cktail shaker with ice. Add tequila, lime juice, Simple Syrup and orange liqueur. Cover and shake until mixed and chilled, about 30 seconds.

  • Use leftover lime to moisten edge of glass. Place salt, sugar, lime juice mixture on a small plate. Press the rim of the glass into the mixture to coat the rim.

  • Fill glass with ice. Strain margarita into the glass. Enjoy!

Notes

How to make simple syrup:https://selfproclaimedfoodie.com/make-simple-syrup/

Nutrition

Calories: 455kcal, Carbohydrates: 38g, Sodium: 2346mg, Potassium: 66mg, Sugar: 34g, Vitamin C: 17mg, Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Did you make this? Leave me acomment below

Cinco de Mayo co*cktails Drinks

Perfect Classic Margarita Recipe - Self Proclaimed Foodie (6)

Hi! I’m Krissy.

I love to create the BEST versions of your favorite recipes. If you love to cook, love to eat, or just have a deep appreciation for good food, you're in the right place! Stick around... I have hundreds of recipes for you to make.

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Perfect Classic Margarita Recipe - Self Proclaimed Foodie (2024)

FAQs

Perfect Classic Margarita Recipe - Self Proclaimed Foodie? ›

The ratio I've always used is four parts tequila, 2 parts lime juice, 1 part simple syrup, and 1 part orange liqueur. For me, that recipe is not only easy to remember but it's the perfect balance of sweet and sour and wow.

What is the difference between a margarita and a perfect margarita? ›

Margarita is the basic template of tequila, orange liqueur and lime juice, which calls for simplicity. It is always open to suggestions and has played the role of the foundation for many complex concoctions. The “Perfect Margarita” is a sophisticated drink, as this co*cktail-martini hybrid has an acquired taste.

What makes restaurant margaritas so good? ›

Just as important as the style of tequila is the use of a high-quality orange liqueur. Part of the Daisy category of co*cktails, the Margarita calls for triple sec such as Cointreau for sweetness and balance. Though some may opt for agave nectar instead, the addition of the liqueur is what makes a true Margarita.

Do you need triple sec for margaritas? ›

Triple sec is an orange-flavored liqueur that is commonly used in margaritas. If you don't have triple sec handy, you can substitute with another good-quality orange liqueur like Grand Marnier or Cointreau.

How do you order a margarita like a pro? ›

Ask the bartender for recommendations or suggestions based on their expertise. They may have insider tips or secret ingredients to make your Margarita even more delicious. Don't forget to specify your desired level of sweetness. If you prefer a sweeter Margarita, ask for a splash of agave nectar or simple syrup.

Is triple sec or Grand Marnier better for margaritas? ›

Both Grand Marnier and Cointreau are excellent replacements for Triple Sec when making a Margarita. In fact, both of these are significantly more expensive and are considered to be better than inexpensive Triple Sec both in quality and taste.

Is Grand Marnier or Cointreau better in margarita? ›

If you appreciate a more complex palate, Grand Marnier is the best option. For a lighter drink, go with Cointreau. For those who are always looking to save a buck, Cointreau is less expensive. Either way, you will have a great orange liqueur that will help you mix up some delicious drinks and treat your guests.

What is the secret ingredient in margaritas? ›

We'll just tell you upfront: The secret to a tasty margarita is freshly squeezed lime juice (not the bottled stuff) and—here's the real secret—a splash of fresh OJ. That's right. Fresh-squeezed juice from an actual orange (not an orange-flavored liqueur) will produce a cleaner-tasting, more refreshing margarita.

What margarita mix do most restaurants use? ›

Lasco was there from the beginning, perfecting a margarita mix that helped make restaurants and food service operators famous the world over. The Lasco margarita is the perfect blend of lemon and lime, sweet and sour, And our natural ingredients will not leave an aftertaste like other mixes.

Is Cointreau or triple sec better for margaritas? ›

The classic margarita calls for Cointreau (plus good silver tequila and fresh lime juice). Because its flavor is uncomplicated by spice notes, Cointreau is very adaptable in blending, and shakes up beautifully with clear spirits as well as with brandies, and darker, aged liquors.

Why are margaritas shaken and not stirred? ›

Shaking combines the different flavors of these ingredients efficiently, dilutes the alcohol, balances the flavors, and quickly chills the drink.

Can I use orange juice instead of triple sec for margaritas? ›

Yes, it is possible to use orange juice instead of triple sec in a margarita recipe. Triple sec is an orange-flavored liqueur that is often used in co*cktails to add a citrusy flavor and sweetness. If you do not have triple sec on hand or prefer not to use it, you can use orange juice as a substitute.

What not to order at a bar? ›

10 Drinks You Should Never Order at a Bar
  • Long Island Iced Tea. MelanieMaya/Getty Images. ...
  • Ramos Gin Fizz. ...
  • Mojito. ...
  • Frozen Drinks. ...
  • Appletini. ...
  • Bloody Mary. ...
  • New York Sour. ...
  • A “Surprise”
Jan 26, 2023

What does ordering a Margarita say about you? ›

You enjoy your individuality and a good party. You love to dance and are very social and like making new friends. You're the wild and carefree adventure lovers. Let's face it, nothing says “let's party” like a margarita.

What is skinny girl Margarita? ›

Made from premium Blue Agave Silver Tequila (yes, please) and lightly sweetened with agave nectar, the original Skinnygirl® Margarita is STILL delicious and low-calorie (really?). Yes, really. Serve this refreshingly light low-calorie Margarita in a fun glass rimmed with salt, and you and your girls are good to go!

What does perfect Margarita mean? ›

While the definition of a perfect margarita can be argued, we believe it's best to give credit to the traditional three-part combo that has kept the Margarita on its throne – tequila, orange liqueur and lime juice. The importance of using quality ingredients is key to making any drink a great one.

What is the perfect Margarita? ›

Our margarita ratio is 4 parts tequila: 3 parts lime juice: 1 part orange liqueur. So to mix up a batch of margaritas for 6 people, fill a pitcher with ice and stir together: 12 ounces of tequila. 9 ounces of fresh lime juice.

What classifies a Margarita as a Margarita? ›

A margarita is a co*cktail consisting of tequila, triple sec, and lime juice. Some margarita recipes include simple syrup as well and are often served with salt on the rim of the glass. Margaritas can be served either shaken with ice (on the rocks), without ice (straight up), or blended with ice (frozen margarita).

How do you order a perfect Margarita? ›

Ask for a traditional margarita w/o sweet and sour or to be clear its not out of hand to say "Margarita rocks, no sweet and sour, just tequila, triple sec (or Cointreau if you're going top shelf) and lime juice".

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