Classic Margarita
This Classic Margarita shakes together fresh lime and lemon juice, tequila blanco, and triple sec for a bright, citrusy cocktail that's perfectly balanced every single time. Rimmed with honey and Tajín or salt, it's simple, refreshing, and better than anything you'd order at a bar!
Prep Time5 minutes mins
Total Time5 minutes mins
Course: Cocktails, Drinks
Cuisine: Latin American, Mexican
Keyword: classic margarita recipe, cocktails, drinks, homemade margarita, party
Servings: 1 cocktail
Jigger
Cocktail strainer
Cocktail glass
- ½ oz fresh lime juice
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
- 1½ oz tequila blanco
- ½ oz triple sec
- ½ oz agave syrup or simple syrup honey, or simple syrup
For Serving:
- Honey or agave for rimming
- Tajín or salt for rimming
- Ice
- Lime wheel for garnish
Add the tequila, triple sec, lime juice, lemon juice, and sweetener to a cocktail shaker. Fill with ice, secure the lid, and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds.
Prepare the glass by brushing the rim with honey or agave, then dipping it into Tajín or salt to evenly coat. Fill the glass with ice and strain the margarita into the prepared glass. Garnish with a lime wheel and serve immediately.
- Use both lime and lemon juice for the most balanced citrus flavor — all lime can be too sharp and one-note.
- Shake hard for the full 10–15 seconds. Proper dilution from the ice is what gives a margarita its smooth, rounded finish.
- Tajín adds a chili-lime kick that elevates the whole drink — don't skip it if you have it.
- Adjust the sweetener to taste before shaking. Some tequilas run sweeter than others and may need less agave.