Name: The Perfect Margarita
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1 wedge lime; 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt, or as needed; 1 large ice cube; 1 cup ice cubes, or as needed; 2 fluid ounces white tequila; 1.5 fluid ounces triple sec; 1 fluid ounce freshly squeezed lime juice; 1 slice lime

Chef John's margarita recipe is crafted with the ideal balance of ingredients, ensuring that you get the perfect margarita every time. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you won't need to go out to enjoy this classic cocktail!

Ingredients

2 fluid ounces white tequila (100% agave)
1 fluid ounces triple sec (high quality)
1 fluid ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
1 large ice cube
1 cup ice cubes
1 wedge lime (for garnish)
1 slice lime (for garnish)

Directions

Gather all your ingredients and have them ready.
Moisten the rim of your glass with a lime wedge.
On a plate, sprinkle the coarse salt. Lightly dip the moistened rim of the glass into the salt, ensuring it is evenly coated.
Place a large ice cube into the glass and set the glass aside to chill.
Fill a cocktail shaker with fresh ice.
Pour in the tequila, triple sec, and lime juice into the shaker.
Cover the shaker and shake vigorously until the outside of the shaker is frosted, which usually takes about 15 seconds.
Strain the margarita into your chilled, salt-rimmed glass.
Garnish your margarita with a slice of lime.

Chef's Notes

For the best margarita, use fresh ingredients. Opt for high-quality tequila (100% agave) and triple sec, such as Cointreau. If you like a touch of sweetness, feel free to add a splash of agave nectar. And remember, fresh lime juice makes all the difference!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 321
Total Fat: 0g (0% Daily Value)
Sodium: 331mg (14% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate: 30g (11% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 2g (8% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 20g
Protein: 1g (1% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 31mg (35% Daily Value)
Calcium: 34mg (3% Daily Value)
Iron: 4mg (24% Daily Value)
Potassium: 125mg (3% Daily Value)

The Perfect Margarita Recipe

Comments

Nicholas Grayson

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

Just a good strong margarita recipe. I had 2 limes, cut and drained them. Ended up with 4oz and from there added 6 oz triple sec and 8 of tequila. I didn't realize how much alcohol is actually in just your dekuypers triple sec, so this will be a fun night. Would recommend doing what i did for more than one, may do it to watch the fight this weekend with the boys.

IcyKelp3870

01/29/2023 08:55:07 PM

I used the same ratios, but modified the ingredients…used Espolon Reposado and 3/4 oz Grand Marnier and 3/4 oz Patron Citronge as the spirits…and added a bar spoon and a half of agave syrup…and of course, kept the same ratio of fresh lime juice. Filled the large shaker tin with ice and did a good 20 second shake, poured over a large chunk of ice in a double rocks glass; garnished with a charred lime wheel. The cocktail was tequila forward…as I drank it and the ice slowly melted, it balanced out nicely.

Missy

06/24/2023 08:48:24 PM

I am a big fan of Chef John’s recipes. I have tried many. As always this recipe for Margaritas did not disappoint. I made it exactly as written except I put it in the blender with crushed ice. It was perfect! It tasted as good if not better than in a restaurant.

Njchung

04/26/2020 01:49:11 AM

It is sour as written. I added about 1/2 ounce of Agave Syrup to this recipe and it was a big hit!

ProPizza1625

01/16/2024 04:55:02 AM

Great recipe.. agree with quality ingredients. I use Patron Silver 100% De Agave Tequila and coat the rim of the glass with Himalayan salt.

YKISH

07/15/2018 12:59:03 AM

I skipped salting and freezing the glass. Will do that next time. Used Cointreau and gold tequila because I didn't have white tequila. Thank you!

Jenn

01/07/2025 04:44:45 AM

My husband only drinks once every 2-3 months, but when he does he has me make this recipe. He gives me the biggest smile when I make it and tells everyone I make "The best margaritas in town!" (Sorry, I do take the credit.) LOL When I make them for his friends they say, "Wow! I can taste alcohol too... Not like the $20 ones at the bar where I'm not sure they put any in!"

TwistyCream4371

01/05/2025 01:46:09 AM

add a squeeze of honey!!!

BeansCorporate

11/07/2024 03:28:55 PM

It's really the perfect margarita!

miskellcki

10/23/2024 05:37:50 PM

It was pretty simple to put together and tasted very good.

Linda Hernandez

09/10/2024 11:12:35 PM

This recipe is a total winner.

Samantha Hill

09/03/2024 11:16:50 PM

Even my toddler loved it!

LovingWok9919

06/24/2024 12:20:37 PM

Exactly as he did by the way, I really liked his video very friendly and specific. I love it. Thank you very much.

Christine Edwards

05/19/2024 08:41:41 PM

Everyone should try this at least once.

JovialSoup3037

05/05/2024 10:09:11 PM

Almost "Perfect"! 🙂 If you like a tart margarita, make as written. If you like a sweet margarita, use SWEETENED lime juice instead of fresh. Great, strong recipe regardless. This is my go to. Most of US prefer sweet, so 4 out of star rating.