Margaritas (on the rocks)

Tart but sweet, refreshing, and oh yeah, it has tequila. There is a reason that margaritas are up there for all time favorite drinks. Margaritas, when done right, always hit the spot! And I like a quality margarita. I do not enjoy one that is weighed down with a lot of sweet and sour mix. I like lime, agave, orange juice and the flavor of the tequila. And just like my other Cinco de Mayo recipes, this is meant to be a crowd pleaser; both in flavor and in quantity. This will make a large pitcher of margaritas that everyone can enjoy. But since I am kind, I will also break down making a batch that serves 3-4 margaritas for you at the bottom of this post. You know, just in case your not serving or drinking for 10+. :) Um you're welcome.

Ingredients/Instructions (large batch):

4 cups tequila, I prefer silver

3 cups lime juice

1 cup triple sec, Gran Marnier or Cointreau (plus more for floating if you're going with Gran Marnier or Cointreau)

1 cup carbonated water (I know it sounds weird, but like a little bit fo fizz.)

1/2 cup agave nectar

3/4 cup orange juice

1 lime

salt

sugar (colored or plain, optional)

Ingredients/Instructions (small batch):

If you are looking to make a smaller batch, say 3-4 margaritas, use this quanitity of ingredients, and follow the same instructions (below)

1 cup tequilla

3/4 cup lime juice

2 tbsp agave nectar

1/4 cup orange liqueur (triple sec, Gran Marnier or Cointreau)

1/4 cup orange juice

1/4 cup carbonated water

1. Combine the tequila, lime juice, orange liqueur, agave and orange juice into a large pitcher and stir. Refrigerate until you are ready to serve.

2. Wait to add the carbonated water until you are ready to serve.

3. Slice your lime and press it against the rim of your glass so that the salt has something to adhere it to the glass.

4. On a small plate either pour 1 tbsp of salt (or you can mix salt and sugar as I did).

5. Turn your glass, rimmed with lime juice, upside down and press into the salt (and sugar). Add the lime to the rim if you want as well.

6. Fill your glasses 3/4 (of the way with ice and pour the margarita mix over the ice.

7. Float with Cointreau or Gran Marnier (about 1/2 to 1 tablespoons worth)

Enjoy!!!!