Classic Margarita Cocktail | Tequila, Lime & Triple Sec
Zesty, balanced, and timeless — the Classic Margarita mixes tequila, lime, and orange liqueur for a crisp burst of citrus with every sip. This IBA-standard recipe delivers the perfect harmony of sweet, sour, and salt in one glass.
The Margarita’s Charm
Bright, tart, and endlessly refreshing, the Classic Margarita has earned its place among the most beloved cocktails worldwide. Built on three simple ingredients, it captures the essence of Mexican mixology in one effortless shake.
Background
Born in mid-20th-century Mexico, the Margarita became an international favorite for its crisp balance of agave spirit and citrus. Its simplicity made it a bar-menu staple from Tijuana to Tokyo.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Tequila Blanco – the clean, agave-forward backbone.
- Triple Sec – adds bright orange sweetness.
- Lime Juice – brings acidity and freshness.
- Salt Rim – accentuates the citrus and rounds each sip.
Equipment
- Shaker
- Hawthorne strainer
- Rocks or Margarita glass
Why It Works
A Margarita balances sharp lime with the sweetness of orange liqueur and the earthy kick of tequila. It’s an archetype of the sour family — bold yet refreshing, elegant yet approachable.
Variations
- Tommy’s Margarita – swap Triple Sec for agave nectar.
- Frozen Margarita – blend with crushed ice for a summer favorite.
- Mezcal Margarita – adds smoky depth for adventurous palates.
Tips & Serving
- Use fresh lime juice only — bottled versions flatten the drink.
- Cointreau or a quality Triple Sec keeps flavors clean.
- Salt half the rim so guests can control the flavor contrast.
- Pair with tacos, ceviche, or chips with guacamole.
Margarita Recipe
Type of Glass
Margarita Glass
Ingredients
- 2 oz.
- 3/4 oz.
- 3/4 oz.
Directions
- Rim a rocks glass with salt by rubbing a lime wedge around the rim and dipping it into coarse salt.
- Fill a shaker with ice, tequila, lime juice, orange liqueur.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
- Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with a lime wheel.
A true classic — crisp, tart, and perfectly balanced, the Margarita proves that three ingredients are all you need for cocktail perfection.
