
A true classic margarita only has three ingredients, tequila, triple sec, and lime juice. This margarita has the addition of agave nectar which rounds out the flavor of the tequila nicely.
This classic cocktail of tequila, triple sec or orange liqueur, agave nectar, and lime juice is an ideal margarita that can be sipped year-round.
Before we get to the recipe, let’s go over a few of the “rules” of a classic margarita.
The standard ratio for a margarita is 10:4:3, tequila, triple sec, and fresh lime juice. This recipe includes agave nectar which changes those ratios slightly. We are following 8:4:4:1, tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and agave nectar. You can think of this ratio like this, if you were making a giant (and we mean giant) picture of margaritas, the recipe would be as follows. 8 cups tequila, 4 cups triple sec, 4 cups lime juice, and 1 cup agave nectar. If you go with this recipe, make sure you have plenty of people to serve! Think of these ratios if you want to double, triple, quadruple the recipe…you get the idea.
Let’s talk tequila. A good margarita requires good tequila. We suggest a quality reposado (rested) or añejo (aged) for a smooth margarita. This margarita recipe calls for a good quality triple sec, however, you can also use Cointreau.
Whether you like your margaritas on the rocks, like this recipe, or frozen (just put all of the ingredients in a blender with ice) this classic margarita recipe will become a favorite.
Prefer a spicy margarita? Try this Jalapeño margarita instead.

Ingredients
- 2 ounces tequila
- 1 ounce triple sec
- 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 ounce agave nectar
- Ice
- Kosher Salt
- Lime wedges for garnish
- Rocks glass
Instructions
- Mix the tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and agave nectar in a shaker, add ice and shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds until the shaker is frosted.
- Put salt in a shallow dish that will fit the rim of your rock's glass. Rub the rims of your rocks glass with lime and coat with salt.
- Gently fill glasses with ice and pour margarita over ice. Garnish with a lime wedge.
Enjoy!