cook like james

The real secret to a great Margarita is choosing the best tequila, so save these for special occasions with just a few friends. Start this recipe the day before your party – it’s worth it. The longer the zest and juice mixture is allowed to steep, the more developed the citrus flavors in the finished margaritas - the full 24 hours is best, although the margaritas will still be great if the mixture is steeped only for the minimum 4 hours.

  Download The World’s Fresh Lime Best Margaritas

4 teaspoons grated lime zest 

1/2 cup lime juice from 2 to 3 medium limes

4 teaspoons grated lemon zest 

1/2 cup lemon juice from 2 to 3 medium lemons

1/4 cup superfine sugar 

 pinch table salt 

2 cups crushed ice 

1 cup 100 percent agave tequila , such as Don Julio Reposado Tequila

¼ cup Grand Marnier

¼ cup Triple Sec

Instructions

1.    Combine lime zest and juice, lemon zest and juice, sugar, and salt in large liquid measuring cup; cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until flavors meld,  24 hours.

2.    Divide 1 cup crushed ice between 4 or 6 margarita or double old-fashioned glasses. Strain juice mixture into 1-quart pitcher or cocktail shaker. Add tequila, Grand Marnier, and Triple Sec, and remaining crushed ice; stir or shake until thoroughly combined and chilled, 20 to 60 seconds. Strain into ice-filled glasses; serve immediately.