Traditional Margarita Recipe

Close up of a classic margarita on the rocks in a salt rimmed rocks glass with a lime slice.

5 from 3 votes

This easy margarita on the rocks is a strong cocktail with the perfect balance of sweet and tart. Worthy of any restaurant, enjoy this drink over ice with a salted rim for the ultimate margarita experience!

*See notes at the bottom of the recipe card for directions on making this for a crowd.*

Prep Time5

Total Time5

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American, Mexican

Servings: Serving

Calories: 285kcal

Author: Meredith

Equipment

Jigger
Citrus Juicer
Cocktail Shaker
Rocks or Margarita Glass (for serving)

Ingredients

Individual Cocktail

1.5 ounces blanco tequila (or reposado tequila)
1.5 ounces orange liqueur
1.5 ounces fresh-squeezed lime juice
.5 ounces light agave syrup
optional: course salt for the rim
optional: lime wedge or wheel for garnish

Instructions

Individual Cocktail Instructions

If rimming your glass, run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass and dip it (or gently roll it) in coarse salt. Set aside.
Pour the tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and agave syrup into a cocktail shaker half filled with ice.
Cap the shaker tightly and shake vigorously until the outside of the shaker is very cold (about 15 seconds).
Strain the cocktail into your serving glass with ice.
If desired, add a lime wedge or wheel for garnish and enjoy!

Pitcher Margaritas Instructions

In a large pitcher, add equal parts tequila, orange liqueur, and lime juice with ⅓ of that amount agave syrup. Add a handful or two of ice and stir to combine.
*For example: 1 cup tequila, 1 cup orange liqueur, 1 cup lime juice, and ⅓ cup agave syrup. The quantities will vary depending on the size of your pitcher.
Taste and adjust according to your preference.
Serve over ice and enjoy!

Notes

Variation Ideas:

Make it spicy! If desired, muddle one or two jalapeño slices (or serrano chili slices) in the cocktail shaker before adding in the rest of your ingredients and shaking. Option to garnish with jalapeño (or serrano) slices too.
Make it smoky with Mezcal. Simply replace the blanco tequila 1-for-1 with your favorite brand of Mezcal.
Use simple syrup instead of agave syrup. If desired, replace the agave syrup 1-for-1 with classic simple syrup or honey simple syrup), taste, and adjust according to your preference.
Customize your rim. Try a combination of salt and Tajín for a fun chili-lime salted rim, a sugar rim, or a blend of sugar and salt for a sweet-salty version!

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