Original Margarita Cocktail Recipe

The Original Margarita was created in the 1930s or 1940s, with various stories attributing its invention to different bartenders and socialites. One popular tale credits Carlos 'Danny' Herrera, a bartender in Tijuana, Mexico, who created the drink for a customer allergic to all alcohol except tequila. The Margarita quickly gained popularity in the United States and has since become a staple cocktail at bars worldwide.

The Original Margarita is a refreshing, tangy, and slightly sweet cocktail. It has a well-balanced flavor profile, with the tartness of lime juice complementing the sweetness of the orange liqueur and the earthy, peppery notes of the tequila.

• The Margarita is often served in a salt-rimmed glass, which enhances its flavor and adds a savory touch.
• The name 'Margarita' means 'daisy' in Spanish, and the cocktail may have been named after the popular Daisy cocktail, which also features a citrus and sweetener combination.
• The Margarita is so popular that it has its own designated day, National Margarita Day, celebrated on February 22nd.

1. Prepare a salt-rimmed glass:
   • Wet the rim of a rocks or margarita glass with a lime wedge.
   • Dip the rim into a plate of salt, ensuring an even coating.
2. Combine the ingredients in a shaker:
   • Add 2 oz tequila, 1 oz orange liqueur, 1 oz lime juice, and 0.5 oz simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
3. Shake the cocktail:
   • Shake the mixture vigorously for 10-15 seconds to chill and dilute the drink.
4. Strain and serve:
   • Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice.
5. Garnish:
   • Add a lime wheel or wedge to the rim of the glass as a garnish.

• Chill your glass before preparing the cocktail to keep the drink cooler for longer.
• Use fresh lime juice for a brighter, fresher flavor.
• Shake the cocktail vigorously to properly mix and chill the ingredients.

Appetizers/Snacks

• Guacamole and Chips - The citrus notes from the Margarita cut through the creaminess of the avocado.
• Ceviche - The lime juice in both the cocktail and ceviche complement each other perfectly.
• Grilled Shrimp - The smoky flavor of the grilled shrimp matches nicely with the tangy Margarita.

Main Dishes

• Chicken or Fish Tacos - Margaritas and tacos are a classic combination; the lime accentuates the flavors of the filling.
• Enchiladas - The acidity in the Margarita balances the richness of the cheese and sauce in enchiladas.

Desserts

• Key Lime Pie - The similar citrus profile makes for a harmonious pairing.
• Fresh Fruit Salad - The simplicity of the fruit allows the Margarita flavors to shine.

• Tequila: You can substitute with Mezcal for a smokier flavor.
• Orange Liqueur: Triple Sec or Cointreau can be used.
• Simple Syrup: Agave syrup or honey can be used as a natural sweetener.

Spicy Margarita

Ingredients: Tequila, Orange Liqueur, Lime Juice, Agave Syrup, Jalapeño Slices, Salt, Ice Recipe: Muddle a few jalapeño slices in the shaker before adding the rest of the ingredients. Omit the simple syrup and use agave syrup for a more authentic Mexican feel. This twist adds a spicy kick that'll tickle your taste buds and warm your throat.

Mango Margarita

Ingredients: Tequila, Orange Liqueur, Lime Juice, Mango Puree, Simple Syrup, Salt, Ice Recipe: Add mango puree to the classic ingredients for a tropical twist. The mango brings a sweet, rich flavor that compliments the sharpness of the lime. It's like a beach vacation in a glass!

Mezcal Margarita

Ingredients: Mezcal, Orange Liqueur, Lime Juice, Agave Syrup, Smoked Salt, Ice Recipe: Substitute tequila with mezcal and simple syrup with agave syrup. Use smoked salt for the glass rim. This version has a smoky depth that contrasts beautifully with the other traditional flavors, perfect for those who enjoy a more complex drink.