The Classic Margarita

Today is one of my oldest and dearest friend's birthdays! Rachel has put up with me for around 20 years now and I love and appreciate her for that. So, I'll raise a glass in her honor, since we won't be able to celebrate the final year of our twenties together until she come to visit DC later this month.

Rach, the snake tamer, circa 1992.

Now, when Rachel actually does drink, she typically sticks to shots (to avoid the sugary-induced hangovers of most girly cocktails). BUT, she has a soft spot for margaritas. And I don't blame her one bit. They are delightful.

Here's a recipe for simple, straight-forward, no-nonsense margaritas.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 oz. tequila
• 1 oz. freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1/2 oz. Cointreau
• 1 teaspoon simple syrup (if the limes are too tart for your liking)

Directions

1. In a small saucepan, combine one cup of sugar and one cup of water. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Remove from the heat and let cool.
2. Fill serving glass with ice. Add tequila, lime juice, Cointreau, and simple syrup (optional). 
3. Stir a few times until chilled. Serve immediately.

Happy Birthday Rachie!! Here's to even more good times! (photo =2001)