It doesn’t need to be Cinco de Mayo to try out this yummy take on the classic margaritas. And I know … there are a lot of margarita recipes out there. But trust me, this one’s got something that really takes it to the next level! Want a hint? It’s all about the zest!
Helpful Tools: Zester | Citrus Juicer or Squeezer| Strainer
The Best Classic Margaritas
This recipe comes from my friend and fellow margarita lover Nancy. Thank you!
What makes this version different from others? This recipe calls for steeping fresh lemon and lime zest in their own juices for several hours (4-24 hours) before using.
And while this process requires a little more planning and work than the typical margarita, it also gives the margarita a real WOW factor by amping up the refreshing citrus flavor in the drink.
Some Helpful Tips for Making the Best Classic Margaritas:
These classic margaritas are simple to make. But here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re preparing.
- PLAN AHEAD: Make sure to plan ahead. You’ll need to steep the juice mixture for 4-24 hours before preparing the cocktails, so plan accordingly.
- USE ORGANIC: Use organic lemons and limes, if possible. And be sure to wash and dry your fruit before testing.
- ZESTING TIPS: Grate first, juice second. Just trust me. And avoid the white pith separating the colorful zest and the fruit. It tastes bitter.
- USE SUPERFINE SUGAR: If you have superfine sugar on hand, I’d use that. If not, regular white sugar will work.
- BEST TEQUILA FOR MARGARITAS: I recommend using good, white (Blanco) tequila such as Don Julio or Casamigos in the drinks.
- GRAND MARNIER VS. TRIPLE SEC: I prefer using Grand Marnier, which is a mix of triple sec and cognac, in this recipe, but you could also use Cointreau (which is triple sec) or triple sec.
Looking for more cocktail recipes?
Try these pink grapefruit margaritas or these refreshing gin and grapefruit cocktails!
The Best Classic Margaritas
- Yield: 4-6 1x
Description
These margaritas are perfect for your Cinco de Mayo celebration … or any day!
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- 1 cup fresh squeezed lime juice (about 6-8 limes)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest (about 4 limes)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- A healthy pinch of salt
- 1 cup white tequila
- 1/4–1/2 cup Grand Marnier
Instructions
- COMBINE JUICE, ZEST & SUGAR: Combine lemon juice, lime juice, zest, salt, and sugar in a pitcher and steep for 4-24 hours in the refrigerator. When you are ready to imbibe, strain off the zest and discard.
- MIX TEQUILA, GRAND MARNIER & JUICE: Combine the tequila with 1 cup of the juice mix. Next, add the Grand Marnier — I recommend starting with 1/4 cup Grand Marnier and adding more if needed. Mix and adjust to taste.
- ENJOY: Pour into salt-rimmed, ice-filled glasses and enjoy!