Margarita Recipe: Tequila, Lime and Orange Liqueur
A Margarita combines tequila, orange liqueur and lime juice. Our recipe below uses 40 ml tequila, 20 ml Cointreau and 20 ml fresh lime juice: a 2:1:1 ratio. Shake it with ice and serve in a chilled cocktail glass, with a little salt on the rim if you like.
Ingredients for one Margarita
- 40 ml tequila
- 20 ml Cointreau or another triple sec
- 20 ml freshly squeezed lime juice
- Ice for shaking
- Salt and a lime wedge for an optional half rim
How to make it
- Chill a coupe or cocktail glass. If using salt, moisten the outside of half the rim with lime and dip that section into a little salt.
- Measure the tequila, orange liqueur and lime juice into a shaker. Add plenty of ice.
- Shake until thoroughly cold, then strain into the chilled glass without the shaking ice.
- Serve immediately. A half rim lets you choose a salted or unsalted sip.
How this differs from the IBA Margarita
This is Cocktailored's existing house ratio. The IBA recipe uses 50 ml tequila, 20 ml triple sec and 15 ml lime juice. Both combine the same three ingredients, with a different balance of tequila, sweetness and citrus. Measure each ingredient rather than using an undefined “shot”.
Which tequila and glass should you use?
A blanco tequila labelled 100% agave is a useful starting point. The orange liqueur contributes sweetness, so taste before deciding to add anything else. A coupe works for this serve without ice. If you prefer it on the rocks, strain it over fresh ice in a low glass. Our glassware guide explains the options.
Does a Margarita need salt?
No. Salt is optional, and coating just half the outside rim gives your guest a choice. Avoid dropping salt into the drink while preparing the glass.
A drink with several origin stories
Several stories compete to explain the Margarita’s origins, without one universally accepted inventor. Its familiar combination of tequila, orange liqueur and fresh lime has inspired many variations.
For a reference to your favourite order beyond the bar, explore the Margarita clothing and accessories collection.
