It’s quite hilarious that I’m sharing a cocktail with you today because I’ve given up alcohol for Lent. No, this isn’t some type of joke or mistake, it’s really happening.  I made this margarita a couple of weeks ago because I was in a mood for something gingery.  I love ginger – it’s spicy, it helps with stomach aches and it’s just plain fantastic.  With spring so close, it makes me reflect on the times I’ve sat outside, sipping margaritas with friends.  Even though I enjoy margaritas year-round, it’s the one cocktail that really reminds me of warm weather.

Many have debated what ratio makes a perfect margarita – I’ve even wondered it myself.  After lots of experimenting, I think I’ve found what works best.  The 3-2-1 method seems to present a super-tasty and flavorful margarita especially if you’re sipping a flavored margarita.  The 3-2-1 ratio is: 3 parts tequila, 2 parts sweeter (Triple Sec) and 1 part lime juice.  This isn’t the end all be all margarita ratio but it works quite well for me.  I’m interested to hear if you have ratio other than the 3-2-1 ratio that works for you.

Here’s what you’ll need to make these margaritas:

1.5oz Tequila (whatever your favorite tequila is)
1oz ginger simple syrup*
1/2oz lime juice
kosher salt
lemon slice (for garnish)
candied ginger (optional)

Rub the rim of a glass with lime juice and dip in kosher salt; add ice.

Add the liquid ingredients to a cocktail shaker and add ice; shake, shake, shake.

Pour into the salt-rimmed glass and garnish with a fresh lime slice and candied ginger.

*To make ginger simple syrup:

1/2 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
fresh ginger

Bring water and sugar to a boil then reduce heat.  Add the ginger and completely remove from heat.  Allow the ginger to steep in the water and sugar for 30 minutes or longer if you’d like more of a ginger flavor.

You can keep any leftover syrup in your fridge and use it to sweeten tea or for more cocktails!

Enjoy!