For a crisp and clear summertime sipper, consider the Vodka Margarita.
Earlier this past summer, I was at my friend’s house, as usual, mixing up some drinks for everyone as we all splashed about in the pool throughout the day. This particular afternoon, everybody was in the mood for Margaritas. Tequila tends to be the spirit of choice at my buddy’s abode, and usually it is served in shot form. But today, everybody wanted a ‘rita. So I happily took on the duties of armchair barkeep once again.
The only problem was, the house was completely devoid of tequila… which was strange. There was, however, a giant-sized bottle of SKYY vodka that our other friend usually has on hand. The spirit is always a brilliant mixer, so I thought that Vodka Margaritas would satisfy everyone.
Melding seamlessly with the triple sec and lime juice, the Vodka Margaritas were mixed, poured and passed around for a good long while before somebody noticed the crisper, cleaner and less earthy taste that these beverages had, compared to the peppery and grassy notes tequila usually brings to the classic cocktail.
You don’t have to accidentally come across this concoction—sometimes called a Vodkarita—to enjoy it, because we have the recipe below.
What is the best vodka to use in a Vodka Margarita?
There are a plethora of vodkas to choose from whenever you find yourself shopping for liquor. All manner of flavors and infusions are available to you, and will turn any cocktail you craft with the spirit into something slightly different. For tonight’s recipe, let’s keep things simple and sophisticated, shall we? We’ll be opting for an unflavored vodka, either a Chopin, Belvedere or Grey Goose, which will ensure a balanced and smooth experience.
Ingredients
- Coarse salt for rimming the glass
- 2 lime wedges for rimming the glass and garnish
- 2 ounces vodka
- 1 ounce triple sec
- 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/2 ounce of simple syrup or agave nectar optional, to taste
Instructions
- Spread the coarse salt on a small plate. Run a lime wedge around the rim of a rocks glass, then dip the rim into the salt until coated.
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add the vodka, triple sec, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup or agave nectar if using. Shake well.
- Strain into the prepped glass filled with ice. Garnish with an extra lime wedge and serve immediately.
Nutrition
What glassware and garnish are used?
For today’s ‘rita we’ll be using a rocks or Old Fashioned glass to sip out of. Coat the rim with salt, fill with ice, and once your drink is poured in, garnish with a plump lime wedge on top.
What is the best triple sec to use?
My personal preference is Cointreau, a smooth and orange-flavored liqueur. Grand Marnier is a lovely choice too, and offers some subtle complexity by being made with cognac.
Other margarita variations worth trying
There are more Margaritas out there that you can shake a stick at. And just think about that image for a moment… Someone literally shaking a stick at a wide array of mixed beverages in tall glasses, sometimes with little umbrellas. Well, it makes no sense, honestly. What does make sense are these recipes from Twist & Toast.
- Sangria Margarita – Layered and frozen, this mashup is a delicious choice on a hot afternoon.
- Mezcal Margarita – Swap the tequila out for a smoky and complex mezcal in this version.
- Espresso Margarita – Make your next brunch libation a ‘rita.
- Italian Margarita – The nutty sweetness of amaretto makes this elixir a memorable one.
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