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Classic Margarita with Fresh Lime Zest

Classic Margarita with Fresh Lime Zest
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The Classic Margarita with Fresh Lime Zest is a vibrant and refreshing cocktail that balances tart lime juice and zest with smooth tequila and sweet orange liqueur. This easy-to-make drink is perfect for any occasion, offering a crisp, citrusy flavor with a hint of sweetness and a salted rim for contrast. It’s versatile, quick to prepare, and ideal for those who appreciate a well-balanced, spirited cocktail.

Ingredients

Scale

Liquids and Syrups

  • 2 ounces Tequila Blanco (100% agave)
  • 1 ounce Fresh Lime Juice
  • 1/2 ounce Orange Liqueur (Triple Sec or Cointreau)
  • 1/2 ounce Agave Syrup or Simple Syrup

Citrus and Garnish

  • Fresh Lime Zest (from 1 lime)
  • Fresh Lime Wheel or additional zest, for garnish

Others

  • Coarse Salt, for rimming the glass
  • Ice

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Glass: Start by moistening the rim of your glass with a lime wedge. Dip the edge into a plate of coarse salt to create a perfect salted rim that adds both texture and a burst of flavor.
  2. Juice and Zest Fresh Limes: Using a fine grater or microplane, zest one lime to capture those flavorful oils. Then, juice enough limes to get about 1 ounce of fresh juice per serving — freshness is key here!
  3. Mix the Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 ounces of tequila blanco, 1 ounce of fresh lime juice, 1/2 ounce of orange liqueur, 1/2 ounce of agave syrup, and the freshly grated lime zest. Add plenty of ice to chill the mixture.
  4. Shake Vigorously: Seal the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. The shaking chills the cocktail and helps integrate the lime zest evenly for a balanced aroma and flavor.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Strain the margarita into your prepared glass over fresh ice cubes for a crisp, cool experience. Garnish with a lime wheel or additional zest to ramp up the presentation and flavor.

Notes

  • Use fresh ingredients: avoid bottled lime juice or pre-grated zest to keep your drink vibrant and fresh.
  • Choose quality tequila: a smooth, 100% agave tequila blanco elevates the cocktail significantly.
  • Balance sweetness and tartness: adjust syrup and lime quantities based on your taste to avoid overpowering bitterness or sweetness.
  • Chill everything: pre-chilling your glass and ingredients ensures a refreshing margarita every time.
  • Be generous with zest: lime zest contains essential oils that add depth — don’t skimp on it!

Nutrition

Keywords: classic margarita, lime zest margarita, tequila cocktail, fresh lime margarita, citrus cocktail, easy margarita recipe, refreshing cocktail

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/classic-margarita-with-fresh-lime-zest/