How To Make A Classic 3-2-1 Margarita

User Reviews

5

172 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    10 mins

  • Total Time

    10 mins

  • Servings

    3 servings

  • Calories

    296 kcal

  • Course

    Cocktails

  • Cuisine

    Mexican

How To Make A Classic 3-2-1 Margarita

The classic 3-2-1 margarita balances tequila, orange liqueur, and fresh lime juice in a 3:2:1 ratio with the addition of simple syrup for sweetness. Salted glass rims and lime garnishes complement the bright, citrus-forward cocktail. The ingredients are shaken with ice then strained over fresh ice for a crisp, refreshing drink with measured balance of flavors.

Description

How To Make A Classic 3-2-1 Margarita calls for three parts tequila, two parts orange liqueur such as triple sec or Cointreau, and one part fresh lime juice, combined with simple syrup or agave nectar to taste. Mixing in a cocktail shaker filled with ice chills and dilutes the ingredients just enough, while shaking ensures proper blending and aeration for a smooth finish.

Rimming the glass with kosher or coarse salt after rubbing a lime wedge highlights the citrus notes and introduces a savory contrast. The margarita is served over ice with a lime wheel or wedge garnish, delivering a bright and balanced cocktail that showcases the tequila and citrus flavors without excessive sweetness.

The 3-2-1 ratio allows scaling for a pitcher or individual servings while maintaining consistent flavor. Fresh lime juice is emphasized for optimal brightness, and simple syrup lets drinkers adjust sweetness. This recipe suits home bartenders aiming for a traditional margarita experience.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 6 ounces tequila 3 parts
  • 4 ounces orange liqueur 2 parts (triple sec, Grand Marnier or Cointreau
  • 2 ounces lime juice 1 part, fresh
  • 2 Tablespoons simple syrup or to taste, or agave nectar
  • kosher salt for rims of glasses
  • lime fresh, slices, for garnish
  • lime zest, optional

Instructions

  1. FIll a cocktail shaker with ice. Mix 3 parts tequila, 2 parts orange liqueur and 1 part lime juice, simple syrup, to taste and zest of one lime, if desired. Shake well.
  2. Rub a wedge of lime around the rim of a rocks glass. Coat rim with kosher salt. Fill glasses with ice.
  3. Strain margaritas into glasses and garnish with lime slices.

Notes

  • The 3-2-1 ratio can be used to scale the recipe for pitchers or single cocktails with consistent flavor.
  • Use fresh lime juice for the best citrus brightness and flavor.
  • Coarse or kosher salt works best for rimming glasses and enhancing the margarita's taste.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Serving 1serving Calories 296kcal (15%) Carbohydrates 24g (8%) Protein 0.1g (0%) Fat 0.2g (0%) Saturated Fat 0.04g (0%) Polyunsaturated Fat 0.04g (0%) Monounsaturated Fat 0.01g (0%) Sodium 5mg (0%) Potassium 35mg (1%) Fiber 0.1g (0%) Sugar 22g (44%) Vitamin A 9IU (0%) Vitamin C 8mg (9%) Calcium 3mg (0%) Iron 0.1mg (1%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 3servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 296 kcal

% Daily Value*

Serving 1serving
Calories 296kcal 15%
Carbohydrates 24g 8%
Protein 0.1g 0%
Fat 0.2g 0%
Saturated Fat 0.04g 0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.04g 0%
Monounsaturated Fat 0.01g 0%
Sodium 5mg 0%
Potassium 35mg 1%
Fiber 0.1g 0%
Sugar 22g 44%
Vitamin A 9IU 0%
Vitamin C 8mg 9%
Calcium 3mg 0%
Iron 0.1mg 1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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