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Classic Margarita Recipe: The Perfect 3-Ingredient Cocktail

Classic Margarita has roots in Mexico and emerged in the mid-20th century, becoming an American favorite from Tijuana to Tex-Mex bars; its exact origin is debated, but the idea is simple and timeless. What makes a great version is bright, fresh lime juice, a quality blanco tequila for clean agave notes, and an orange liqueur that rounds the flavors—most bartenders use a 2:1:1 ratio for perfect balance—finished with a light salt rim. One practical tip: always use fresh-squeezed lime and shake hard with plenty of ice to both chill and dilute to taste. Stop by Buffalo House Liquor and Wines in Tonawanda for tequila picks and advice.

Prep5 min
Servings1 cocktail
GlassRocks or coupe glass
DifficultyEasy

Ingredients

2 oz Blanco or reposado tequila (100% agave)
1 oz Fresh lime juice
¾ oz Triple sec or Cointreau
¼ oz Agave syrup (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rim a chilled rocks glass with kosher salt by rubbing a lime wedge around the edge and dipping it in salt.
  2. Add tequila, fresh lime juice, triple sec, and agave to a shaker filled with ice.
  3. Shake hard for 12-15 seconds.
  4. Strain over a large ice cube in the salt-rimmed glass.
  5. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Garnish: Lime wheel and a salted rim
💡 Pro tips: Always use 100% agave tequila — mixto tequilas with added sugars create harsh hangovers. Fresh-squeezed lime juice is non-negotiable; bottled lime juice ruins the balance. For a Tommy's Margarita variation, swap the triple sec for a barspoon of agave syrup.

Shop the Bottles for Your Classic Margarita

Pick up everything you need at Buffalo House Liquor & Wines in Tonawanda, NY — same-day delivery across Buffalo, Kenmore, Williamsville, and surrounding areas, or grab them in-store.

Tequila for Margaritas


Want more cocktail inspiration? Browse our full cocktail recipes collection, or pair this drink with our latest spirits guides. For questions about any bottle, call us at (716) 770-1230.

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