Learning how to make a classic 3-2-1 margarita is as easy as counting to three. They’re delicious, too, which is all the more reason to celebrate with one.
Long, long, ago in college land, there lived a bunch of young kids who liked to think that frozen Margaritas were a “classic” Mexican drink.In real grown-up land, the Classic Margarita is a 3-2-1 ratio of tequila, orange liqueur, Grand Marnier (or Cointreau), and lime juice. It is not frozen, but rather, served on the rocks. Some people sweeten classic margaritas with a bit of simple syrup or agave nectar. I prefer a small amount of simple syrup in mine, and I also like to add a bit of lime zest.
- 3 parts tequila 6 ounces
- 2 parts orange liqueur triple sec, Grand Marnier or Cointreau (4 ounces)
- 1 part fresh lime juice 2 ounces
- Simple syrup or agave nectar to taste (4 Tablespoons)
- Kosher salt for rims of glasses
- Fresh lime slices for garnish
- Optional: zest of lime
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Into a cocktail shaker, mix 3 parts good quality tequila, 2 parts orange liqueur and 1 part lime juice, simple syrup and zest of one lime, if desired.
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Rub a wedge of lime around the rim of a rocks glass. Coat rim with kosher salt. Fill with ice.
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Pour margaritas into glasses and garnish with lime slices.
Here in sunny Southern California, limes are 10 for a buck, so it’s a pretty easy summer-time drink. Salting the rim of the glass is optional. As long as you adhere to the 3-2-1 ratio, you can make as many margaritas as you wish!
Classic 3-2-1 Margarita
Learning how to make a classic 3-2-1 margarita also means learning that this isn’t the time to skimp on ingredients.
Use the best quality tequila you can afford. There’s a reason that a margarita made with Grand Marnier is called a “Cadillac”. Simple syrup is a bar staple for many mixed drinks, and it’s also perfect for sweetening iced tea.
- 1 part sugar
- 1 part water
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Bring water and sugar to boil, stirring, just until sugar has dissolved.
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Turn off heat and cool.
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Store syrup in a jar or bottle in refrigerator.
sue|theviewfromgreatisland says
We’re heading down to my sister’s for a barbecue today and I’m going to bring the makings for this drink, thanks for the ratio tip – now I can make a HUGE batch 🙂
Kristi @ Inspiration Kitchen says
Nice! A simple Margarita that is easy to make and looks absolutely delicious! YUM! Perfect for summer.
Cynthia says
A margarita is the perfect summertime drink!
Chris @ The Café Sucré Farine says
I love how simple you’ve made this Cynthia and I’m quite jealous of 10 limes for a dollar!
Cynthia says
Chris that is the best part of living in southern california, our produce is so inexpensive!
Katalina @ Peas and Peonies says
Right in time for our opening pool party, so ready to make tis for our friends!
Cynthia says
Katalina, it’s the perfect summertime drink!
Fabiana says
I am deffinitely prepare some of these later today. It has been a looong week and they sound amazing.
Cynthia says
the perfect weekend drink for sure!
Lily Lau says
The perfect post for Saturday night! Need to try it tonight, thanks for sharing 😀
Cynthia says
Thanks Lily!
Sheena @ Tea and Biscuits says
I think I’ve only had a Margarita once before, clearly I need to remedy that as your recipe is making my mouth water!!
Cynthia says
Lol Sheena! you’re missing out!