It’s hard to improve on a classic, but there are ways to make a signature cocktail your own. Start with our basic margarita recipe and change it up with one (or all!) of our tips on how to make a perfect margarita.

how to make a perfect margarita

Looking for a way to change up your standard margarita? Look no further than this recipe and 4 tips on how to make a perfect margarita.

Ingredients
 

Yield: 6 servings
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  • 3 cups tequila
  • 3/4 cups orange liqueur
  • 2 1/2 cups lime juice, squeezed
  • mix pitcher and chill
  • salt-rimmed glass, pour over ice
  • lime wedge, for garnish

Instructions
 

get fresh

  • Did you know margaritas are not supposed to be neon green or day-glow yellow? Try making your own margarita mix with two parts fresh lemon or lime juice and one part triple sec liqueur. Or if you must use a pre-made mix, try buying one made with all-natural ingredients, and the less sugar the better.

go grand

  • Another great way to upgrade your margaritas is to substitute a fine orange liqueur such as Grand Marnier or Cointreau for that old bottle of triple sec that's been collecting dust in your liquor cabinet for years.

give 100%

  • If the thought of drinking tequila brings bad memories of slamming shots on spring break, know that all tequilas are not the same. Look for 100% Blue Agave tequila vs. cheaper blends that are mixed with inexpensive (and hangover inducing) ingredients.

young vs. old

  • For bolder flavors, try an un-aged blanco (white) tequila instead of more traditional repasado (rested) tequila that's been barrel-aged a minimum of two months, or the more expensive anejo (aged) tequila that's been barrel-aged for at least a year.

Notes

I love to salt the rim of my margarita glass by rubbing lemon or lime around the edge and dipping it in a saucer of coarse salt. If I need a sweet and salty fix, I mix 50/50 salt and sugar.
Calories: 377kcal, Carbohydrates: 16g, Protein: 0.4g, Fat: 0.1g, Saturated Fat: 0.01g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.02g, Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g, Sodium: 2mg, Potassium: 126mg, Fiber: 0.5g, Sugar: 9g
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