Margarita cocktail (homemade) Calories

A classic Margarita cocktail contains tequila, lime juice and an orange liqueur such as triple sec. It is usually shaken with ice and may be served with a salted rim; fresh lime gives it a brighter flavor than bottled mix.

A common starting ratio for a Margarita cocktail is two parts tequila to one part lime juice and one part orange liqueur. Adjust the lime for more tartness or the liqueur for more sweetness, then shake with ice.

Moisten the rim with a lime wedge, then dip it into a plate of salt. Salting only the outside edge keeps salt from falling into the drink, and coating just half the rim lets each person choose how much to taste.

Blanco tequila is the classic choice for a Margarita cocktail because its fresh agave flavor pairs well with lime and orange liqueur. Reposado works too, adding a smoother, more oaky note that changes the drink’s character.

Cointreau or another orange liqueur can replace triple sec in a Margarita cocktail. If you have no liqueur, a little orange juice can add citrus flavor, but the drink will be less concentrated and somewhat sweeter.

Yes. A shaken Margarita is strained over ice and has a sharper, more distinct flavor; a frozen Margarita is blended with ice into a slushy texture. Too much blending ice can dilute the frozen drink.

Yes, mix the tequila, lime juice and orange liqueur ahead and refrigerate the mixture in a sealed container without ice. Shake each serving with ice just before pouring; storing the finished drink with ice makes it watery.

A Margarita that tastes too sour may have too much lime juice, while bitterness can come from lime pith or zest oils. Strain freshly squeezed lime juice and adjust the balance gradually with a little more orange liqueur.

No. A Margarita cocktail contains tequila, and alcoholic drinks should be avoided during pregnancy. For a nonalcoholic alternative, mix lime juice, orange juice and soda water instead of tequila and orange liqueur.