This Classic Margarita is made with 5 simple ingredients. It’s refreshing, slightly tart, and perfect all year long!
Classic Margarita
After experimenting to avoid premade mixes, I finally perfected a classic margarita I love. It uses just a few real ingredients, delivers bright lime flavor with a touch of orange, and has a pleasant, slightly tart finish.
This cocktail is ideal for summer but works any time of year — especially for taco nights or casual gatherings. It’s simple to make and always refreshing.
What is the best tequila for margaritas?
With so few ingredients, tequila plays a leading role, so choose one you enjoy. I prefer a good-quality blanco (silver) tequila for its clean, bright character. If you prefer reposado or añejo (gold), feel free to use them — the choice comes down to personal taste.
If the color looks darker than you expect for a “classic” margarita, that’s because this recipe uses fresh ingredients rather than a premade mix. I also add a bit of freshly squeezed orange juice, which brightens the drink and lets me use slightly less triple sec or Cointreau.
That little splash of orange makes the cocktail smooth and easy to sip — so be warned, it goes down easy. If you prefer a more traditional profile, you can omit the orange juice.
Serve with taco night favorites
This margarita pairs beautifully with Mexican-inspired dishes. Serve alongside cheese enchiladas, shredded Mexican chicken, Spanish rice, refried beans, homemade guacamole, and pico de gallo for a full, festive spread.
Classic Margarita
Ingredients
- 4 ounces good quality tequila (recommended: Cazadores Blanco)
- 1 ounce Cointreau or good quality triple sec
- 3 ounces freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 ounces freshly squeezed orange juice (optional)
- 1 ounce agave syrup
- extra limes and flaky salt for serving, if desired
Instructions
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If desired, run a lime wedge around the rim of 2 glasses and dip each rim into a shallow dish of flaky salt.
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In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine tequila, Cointreau (or triple sec), lime juice, orange juice (if using), and agave. Shake vigorously until well chilled. If you don’t have a shaker, a mason jar works well.
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Fill prepared glasses with ice and strain the margarita over the ice. Serve immediately with lime wedges.
Notes
- Omit or reduce the agave to 1/2 ounce for a tarter drink.
- Blanco or silver tequila keeps the cocktail bright; use gold if you prefer a richer flavor, knowing the spirit will be more pronounced.
- Nutrition information is an estimate and will vary by brands and exact measurements.
Nutrition
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Calories: 242kcal
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Carbohydrates: 22g
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Protein: 1g
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Fat: 1g
Did you make this?
Share a photo and tag @countryside_cravings on Instagram to let me know.