Cocktails - Videos

How to make a margarita

Allen Katz, Host, 'The Cocktail Hour', Martha Stewart Living Radio

A margarita doesn't have to be made in a blender. In fact, one of the most refreshing cocktails is this great combination of tequila with orange liquor, a little bit of sugar and fresh lime juice.

1. Add two parts of tequila and one and a third parts orange liqueur. Mixologist Allen Katz uses Grand Marnier, but you could use Triple Sec or Cointreau, any of them will suffice. It's important to measure these ingredients. Use jiggers if you have them.

2. Add equal parts of simple syrup, which is equal parts sugar and water. You can make it and keep it in closed containers in your refrigerator for a month.

3. Using a citrus squeezer, add about one part of fresh lime juice. That's about half a lime. The fun part is shaking it over ice. Make sure the glass and shaker form a tight seal. Shake it with vigor.

4. Once it's mixed, tap the side of the glass to loosen it.

5. Take a fresh slice of lime around the edge of the glass, dip it, and rotate in a shallow dish of salt. Strain the margarita over ice and garnish with a fresh lime reel.