Margarita for One and For a Crowd

For one margarita:

1. If you like a salt-rimmed glass, moisten the rim of your glass with a lime wedge. Then turn the glass over and dip into a small plate of coarse salt.
2. Pour tequila, Cointreau, and lime juice into glass. Add simple syrup, according to your preference of sweetness. I usually add about 1 teaspoon per drink. Give the drink a quick stir and then fill glass with ice. Squeeze a wedge or two of fresh lime over the top and then add the wedges to the drink. Promptly enjoy!

For a crowd:

1. Prepare simple syrup up to a day in advance and let it chill in the refrigerator.
2. About 1 hour before guests are to arrive, measure tequila, Cointreau, and lime juice into a small pitcher. Give it a stir and then place in the refrigerator to chill.
3. As you are creating margaritas for individual guests, moisten the rim of each glass with a lime wedge and then dip rims in a small plate of coarse salt, for those who prefer a salt-crusted rim. Then pour 1/2 cup of your chilled premix into each glass, followed by simple syrup (a little or a lot, depending on each guest's preference), and give a little stir.
4. Fill with ice almost to the top of each glass, and then squeeze another small lime wedge over the top of each drink for those who like a little extra pucker. Hand off to your guests to enjoy.

For the simple syrup:

1. Simple syrup is so easy to make, and takes only about 5 minutes! In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, stir together water and sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring, until sugar has completely dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature. Store in a covered jar or container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 weeks. Use to sweeten any of your favorite beverages.