Salt suppresses bitterness and amplifies sweetness, making the citrus pop. It's optional but traditional.

Triple sec vs Cointreau?

Both are orange liqueurs. Cointreau is drier and cleaner; triple sec is slightly sweeter — adjust syrup if swapping.

This is the classic shaken Margarita served up or on the rocks. For a frozen version, see our Frozen Margarita variation.

Expert verified

Margarita

Name: Margarita
Prep time: 3 min
Total time: 3 min
Yield: 1 serving
Ingredients: Tequila blanco — 45 ml; Triple sec — 20 ml; Lime juice — 20 ml; Sugar syrup — 5 ml

A sour and citrus tequila cocktail ∙ Shake ∙ 3 min ∙ 24.1%

Ingredients

~189 kcal per serving

Servings

Garnish

Instructions for 1 serving

Pre-chill a glass
Shake all ingredients with ice: Tequila blanco 45 mlTriple sec 20 mlLime juice 20 mlSugar syrup 5 ml
Fine strain into the chilled glass
Express a lime twist over the cocktail and discard
Garnish with a lime wedge

History

Wrapped in colorful stories from Mexico and beyond, the Margarita rose to fame as tequila’s lively ambassador. Celebrated for its bright, festive spirit, it quickly became a drink for celebration and good times. Each sip carries a burst of joyful energy that turns any moment into a fiesta. Margarita’s enduring popularity comes from its vibrant personality and universal appeal.

About this recipe

The Margarita is Mexico's iconic tequila sour — blanco tequila, orange liqueur, and fresh lime, often served with a salted rim. This recipe is the standard shaken version most people mean when they search for a classic Margarita.

FAQ

Why salt the rim?: Salt suppresses bitterness and amplifies sweetness, making the citrus pop. It's optional but traditional.
Triple sec vs Cointreau?: Both are orange liqueurs. Cointreau is drier and cleaner; triple sec is slightly sweeter — adjust syrup if swapping.
Shaken or blended?: This is the classic shaken Margarita served up or on the rocks. For a frozen version, see our Frozen Margarita variation.