Classic Margarita (Per Cocktail):

2 oz Blanco Tequila (100% agave)

1 oz Cointreau or Triple Sec

1 oz Fresh lime juice

0.5 – 0.75 oz Simple syrup or agave nectar

Large ice cubes

Lime wheels or twists (for garnish)

Coarse salt or Tajín (for rimming)

1. Rim: Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glass and dip into coarse salt or Tajín.

2. Mix: Add 2 oz tequila, 1 oz orange liqueur, 1 oz lime juice, and 0.5 oz sweetener to a shaker.

3. Shake: Fill the shaker with large ice cubes. Seal tightly and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until very cold.

4. Strain: Strain into the prepared glass (serve “up” in a coupe or “on the rocks” in a rocks glass with a fresh ice cube).

5. Garnish: Add a lime wheel or twist to the rim and serve immediately.

Pro-Tips:

• Pre-batch your base (tequila, liqueur, lime, sweetener) in a pitcher to speed up service for larger parties.

• Use large, dense ice cubes for shaking to ensure the drink gets cold without excessive water dilution.

• Always taste your pre-batch and adjust acidity or sweetness—limes vary significantly in tartness.

Variations:

• Strawberry: Muddle 3-4 fresh strawberries in the shaker before adding other ingredients.

• Spicy: Add 2-3 thin jalapeño slices to the shaker or use jalapeño-infused simple syrup.

• Smoky: Substitute 50% of the tequila with mezcal for an earthy, smoky depth.