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Margarita
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.98 / 5

The Margarita is a classic cocktail that originated in Mexico and has become a beloved drink all over the world. It is a simple yet delicious combination of tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.

The history of the Margarita is a bit murky, with several stories claiming to be the origin. Some say it was created in the 1930s by a bartender named Don Carlos Orozco, while others credit socialite Margaret Sames for inventing the drink in the 1940s.

Regardless of its exact origins, the Margarita has stood the test of time and remains a popular choice among cocktail enthusiasts. The flavour profile of this drink is a perfect balance of sweet and tart, with the tequila providing a smooth and slightly smoky kick.

The salt on the rim of the glass adds a touch of savouriness and enhances the overall flavour experience. Whether you prefer it frozen, on the rocks, or straight up, the Margarita is a must-try for any cocktail lover.

Check out all our FAQ's on this cocktail

Microbadges

IBA Official Drink
15 key ingredients
Cocktail Of The Day
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die (Part 2)
Invented
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1938
Base ingredient
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Tequila Blanco
Calories
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153 calories
Alcohol content
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32.94% | 2.8 units *
Details
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Classic
Shaken

Tags

Tequila Blanco ingredient icon
Tequila Blanco cocktails
Lime juice ingredient icon
Top ten Lime juice cocktails
Triple Sec ingredient icon
Top ten Triple Sec cocktails
Tequila Blanco ingredient icon
Top ten Tequila Blanco cocktails
Salt ingredient icon
Top ten Salt cocktails

Cocktail glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Triple Sec cocktail ingredient icon for the Margarita cocktail
Triple Sec
Lime juice cocktail ingredient icon for the Margarita cocktail
Lime juice
Tequila Blanco cocktail ingredient icon for the Margarita cocktail
Tequila Blanco
Salt cocktail ingredient icon for the Margarita cocktail
Salt
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

The Margarita is a masterclass in balance, juxtaposing the bright, zesty zing of lime juice against the deep, earthy undertones of tequila, with a hint of sweetness from the triple sec tying it all together. The salt rim not only salutes the senses but also amplifies the cocktail's flavors, rendering each sip as an invigorating taste adventure, perfect for sipping under the sun or as a festive evening starter.

Method
How to make a Margarita

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Rim the edge of a cocktail glass with salt by coating the edge with lime juice and dipping into the salt
Add the other ingredients to a cocktail shaker with a few cubes of ice
Shake well for 10-15 seconds or until the outside of the shaker becomes frosted
Strain into a cocktail glass and serve

Power tips
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Always use freshly squeezed lime juice for your Margarita, as it provides a more vibrant and authentic flavor compared to bottled lime juice.
For a smoother texture, consider using a fine-mesh strainer to double strain your Margarita, ensuring no ice shards or pulp make it into the final drink.
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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Rim  ·  Shake  ·  Strain  · 

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FAQ's

Origins history icon

What is the history behind the Margarita cocktail?

The Margarita is a classic cocktail with a murky history, with several people claiming to have invented it in the 1930s and 1940s. One popular story credits Carlos 'Danny' Herrera at his restaurant in Mexico, 1938, for creating the drink for an actress who was allergic to all spirits except tequila, but didn't enjoy tequila neat. Herrera supposedly solved this by adding lime and salt.

Ingredient substitutions icon

Can I make a Margarita without Triple Sec?

Yes, you can make a Margarita without Triple Sec, but you'll be making a variation of the classic recipe. Triple Sec is an orange-flavored liqueur that adds sweetness and depth. You can substitute it with other orange-flavored liqueurs like Cointreau, Grand Marnier, or even orange juice in a pinch, though the taste will differ.

Preparation techniques icon

What's the best way to salt the rim of the glass for a Margarita?

To properly salt the rim of a glass for a Margarita, begin by running a lime wedge around the edge of the glass to moisten it. Then, invert the glass and press it into a plate of salt, twisting it slightly to ensure even coverage. Tap off any excess. For a more refined look, only salt half the rim.

Non alcoholic variations icon

Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Margarita?

Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version of the Margarita, often called a 'Virgin Margarita' or 'Mockarita'. Replace the tequila and Triple Sec with non-alcoholic substitutes like non-alcoholic spirits or a mix of limeade, orange juice, and a splash of grapefruit juice. Follow the same method of preparation and serve it over ice.

Alcohol content comparison icon

How does the alcohol content of a Margarita compare to other cocktails?

The Margarita has an alcohol content of around 32.94%, which places it on the higher end of the spectrum compared to many other classic cocktails. For example, a classic Mojito or Cosmopolitan typically has a lower alcohol content due to the higher proportion of non-alcoholic mixers. However, variations in recipes can lead to different alcohol content levels.

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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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