A proper Margarita is a thing of beauty. Like other classic cocktails such as the Old Fashioned or the Daiquiri, it's a wonderfully simple drink. First appearing in Mexico the 1930s, the history of the Margarita is hazy, but many of its origin stories have a common theme: an attractive female entertainer (my personal favorite is the late American actress and dancer Rita Hayworth, who was born Margarita Cansino).

2 ounces blanco tequila
1 ounce triple sec
.75 ounces lime juice (3/4 lime)

Combine in a shaker with ice, shake with the spirit of some Mexican fun, and strain into a chilled glass.  Salt rim optional.

This is simple, right?  The three ingredient combination lends itself to all manner of  variations. If you want a stronger bite, use more tequila. For the triple sec (a general term for orange liqueur), I prefer Cointreau, but you certainly can use a different one.  Whatever you do, use fresh lime juice.  It's less expensive and tastes much better than the pre-made Margarita mix mierda.

Help bring this staple of cocktail menus everywhere back to its roots.  Viva la Margarita!