Stop right there. Here’s the best margarita recipe you’ll find: zingy, clear, and classic. It’s simple and uses only 3 ingredients. Did you know that a classic margarita doesn’t even use added sugar? So many restaurants and pre-made mixes have loads of sugar. You won’t even miss it here! This drink is perfectly tangy and balanced. Make a single drink, or a pitcher of this cocktail for a night with friends. Here’s how to make a classic margarita on the rocks in just 5 minutes!

What’s in a margarita? (3 simple ingredients!)

This popular Mexican cocktail was invented in the 1930s. It’s a classic sour cocktail this means that there’s an “official” definition of the margarita, which is:

• Tequila
• Cointreau
• Lime juice

How to make a margarita on the rocks (3 simple steps!)

The version we make is “on the rocks,” meaning that it’s served over ice. It’s incredibly easy to make; here’s how!

1. Rim the glass with salt. A classic margarita has salt on the rim. Why? The salt enhances the sweet and sour flavors in the drink! How to make the perfect salt rim? See below.
2. Shake in a cocktail shaker. Take that tequila, Cointreau and lime juice and shake it together in a cocktail shaker with 4 ice cubes. This gets it extremely cold. What if you don’t have a cocktail shaker? See below.
3. Strain into a glass and add ice. Strain the drink into a glass and add ice. What kind of glass to use for a margarita? Well, it’s a very flexible drink. The margarita is often served in a lowball or Old Fashioned glass like you see here, though of course you can use the classic margarita glass too.