Classic Margarita

Ditch the mix! This classic margarita uses only the freshest ingredients to make the tastiest version of everyone's favorite tequila cocktail. Best of all, it couldn't be simpler to make.

Ingredients for Classic Margarita

Sometimes you have to go with a classic. While I love getting creative with different flavors, herbs and spices, I believe in sticking to a particular formula when it comes to the classic margarita: tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice and optional homemade simple syrup. No margarita mix for this lady.

In fact, I have strong feelings against using margarita mix. A classic margarita calls for just a few simple ingredients. Why go for something that tastes artificial and sticky when you can make a much tastier drink in just a few minutes?

As for the tequila, I'm a sucker for reposado, specifically Corralejo. Most margaritas use the blanco variety, which is bottled immediately or shortly after distilling. Reposado tequila, however, is aged in oak barrels anywhere between two months and one year, making for a more mellow drink with subtle barrel characteristics. And that's not to say there aren't great blanco tequilas because there certainly are, but I prefer the smoothness that comes with reposado.

Now let's talk orange liqueur. I've tasted a lot of margaritas in my day, and Grand Marnier remains my favorite type of orange liqueur. Cointreau is another delicious option.

But it's pricey, and if you plan on drinking a lot of margaritas in your life --- and you probably should --- I completely understand using a more economical alternative. In that case, triple sec is the common go-to for margaritas.

And if you don't have much of a sweet tooth, the simple syrup is optional. Matt prefers his margaritas without simple syrup, but for me, the simple syrup helps meld everything together. If you're unsure, simply mix the margarita without the simple syrup, taste and then add simple syrup if you'd like additional sweetener.

So find a spot on the patio, shake up a few batches of margaritas and let me know what you think. As far as I'm concerned, it doesn't get much better than that.

Perfect Pairing

Obviously, these fresh margarita calls for Mexican food. Luckily for you, I have plenty of options you'll love. Try any of these dishes with this margarita, and they won't disappoint.

• Jerk chicken enchiladas with habanero-sour cream sauce
• Beer-braised Mexican shredded beef
• Tropical pico de gallo
• Colorado-style pork green chile
• Roasted chicken-butternut squash tostadas
• Spiced orange tres leches cake

When you're craving a fresh, simple cocktail, I hope you try this classic margarita.

Cheers!

Also Love a Unique Margarita?

• Strawberry-kiwi margarita
• Italian margarita
• Blood orange margarita
• Coconut margarita
• Raspberry-peach margarita

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