Margaritas

For a Single Margarita

Notes: This recipe makes a single, strong 3.5-ounce cocktail, different from the large, diluted margaritas often served in restaurants.

1 1/2 ounces silver tequila

1 ounce orange liqueur (Cointreau, Grand Marnier or Triple Sec)

3/4 ounce freshly-squeezed lime juice

agave nectar or simple syrup, to taste

ice

lime wedge

coarse salt for rimming the glass

Optional: To salt the rim, run a lime wedge around the top rim of your serving glass.

Dip the rim into a shallow plate of coarse salt until covered.

Add tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and a few ice cubes to a cocktail shaker.

Cover and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds until chilled.

Taste the mix and stir in a teaspoon or two of sweetener if desired.

Fill the prepared serving glass with fresh ice.

Strain the margarita mix into the glass, garnish with a lime slice, and enjoy.

Notes: Perfect for a party, this recipe makes a large batch. Prepare glasses with salted rims for your guests beforehand.

3 cups silver tequila

2 cups orange liqueur (Cointreau, Grand Marnier or Triple Sec)

1 1/2 cups freshly-squeezed lime juice

agave nectar or simple syrup, to taste

a handful of ice

lime wedges and coarse salt for rimming the glasses

In a large pitcher, stir together the tequila, orange liqueur, and lime juice.

Add a handful of ice and stir until combined.

Taste and add sweetener as desired until the margaritas reach your preferred sweetness.

Serve over ice in prepared salt-rimmed glasses.

Garnish each glass with an extra lime slice if desired.