If Mexican food is on the menu, this margarita is the drink to go with it: simple to make and easy to adjust to your taste.
A good margarita is all about balance. Bright lime, smooth tequila and just enough orange liqueur to round it all out. This is my favorite ratio: fresh, citrusy and not too sweet, with the option of adding a touch of simple syrup or agave if you like it a little sweeter. For the best flavor, use a blanco tequila that you’d actually enjoy sipping—something clean and smooth, like Casamigos, Patrón, or Espolòn—and a good orange liqueur like Cointreau for a refined, well-balanced drink.
A few small details make a big difference. Always use fresh lime juice, shake the drink well so it is well chilled and slightly diluted (this is what cuts down on the alcohol), and serve it over plenty of ice. I love the salted edges for contrast, but that’s optional. Once you’ve made it once, it’s easy to tweak it – more or less sweet, or even a little splash of orange juice if you prefer a smoother, slightly sweeter drink – until it’s exactly how you like it.
