Margarita Magic: Classic Cocktail Recipe + 6 Delicious Variations

There’s nothing quite like a margarita to bring a bit of sparkle to your evening. Zesty lime, smooth tequila, and a perfectly salted rim—this iconic cocktail is endlessly customisable and always a crowd-pleaser.

We’re starting with the classic margarita recipe (featured in the video below), then branching into flavour-packed favourites including spicy, skinny, virgin, frozen, strawberry, and mango margaritas. Whether you prefer your cocktails fiery or fruity, on the rocks or blended, there’s a version here for you.

🍯 Want a smoother, slightly sweeter version? Try it with Beeble Honey Tequila for a floral, British twist.

🌟 Featured Tequila: Beeble Honey Tequila

Bright coloured cocktail with Beeble Honey Tequila, perfect for your next margarita recipe

Looking for a new spin on your classic margarita recipe? Try it with Beeble Honey Tequila—a small-batch spirit crafted in Wiltshire with a blend of fine Mexican Tequila Blanco and honey from Beeble’s own hives.

This sustainably produced liquor has a delicately floral and earthy sweetness, giving your margarita an elegant twist without overpowering the lime or orange notes.

Why we love it:

• Smooth, slightly sweet flavour from Wiltshire honey
• 30% ABV – lighter than many traditional tequilas
• Beautiful matte black bottle makes it perfect for gifting
• £35 at Farm Fetch (+£3 gift box option available)

This UK-made tequila is an artisan product that fits beautifully with any margarita variation—from the skinny margarita to a bold spicy margarita recipe.

🌶️ Spicy Margarita

The spicy margarita is perfect for those who love a bit of heat.

Ingredients

• Classic margarita base
• 2–3 slices of fresh jalapeño or chilli
• Optional: splash of agave syrup

How to Make

Muddle chilli slices in your shaker before adding the remaining ingredients. Shake, strain, and garnish with extra chilli or a lime twist.

🧊 Frozen Margarita Recipe

Cool, refreshing, and easy to make—this frozen margarita recipe is a go-to for summer parties.

Ingredients

• 60 ml tequila
• 30 ml triple sec
• 30 ml lime juice
• 1 cup of ice
• Optional: 1 tsp sugar or agave syrup

Method

Blend until smooth and pour into a chilled glass rimmed with salt.

🍓 Strawberry Margarita

Fruity and bright, the strawberry margarita is sweetened naturally with berries.

Ingredients

• 60 ml tequila
• 30 ml triple sec
• 30 ml lime juice
• 4–5 fresh strawberries
• 1 tsp sugar or agave
• Ice

Method

Blend all ingredients until smooth. Serve frozen or over ice with a sugar or salt rim.

🥭 Mango Margarita

Tropical and refreshing, the mango margarita recipe is a fruity crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 60 ml tequila
• 30 ml triple sec
• 60 ml mango purée or chunks
• 30 ml lime juice
• Ice

Method

Blend until velvety and serve with a tajin or salt rim.

💚 Skinny Margarita

Looking for a lighter take? The skinny margarita skips sugary liqueurs in favour of fresh citrus and a touch of natural sweetener.

Skinny Margarita Ingredients

• 60 ml tequila (preferably silver)
• 30 ml fresh lime juice
• 15 ml orange juice
• 1 tsp agave syrup (adjust to taste)
• Ice

Method

Shake everything over ice and strain into a salt-rimmed glass. Garnish with lime. Lower sugar, same delicious kick.

🧃 Virgin Margarita

Skip the alcohol but keep the zing. The virgin margarita is refreshing, citrusy, and perfect for all ages.

Ingredients

• 60 ml lime juice
• 60 ml orange juice
• 15 ml agave syrup or honey
• Ice
• Sparkling water to top up

Method

Shake the juices and sweetener, strain into a glass over ice, and top with sparkling water. Add a salted rim for the full experience.

🍹 Margarita Glasses & Finishing Touches

For extra flair, use proper margarita glasses, colourful rims, and bold garnishes like:

• Lime wheels
• Jalapeño slices
• Edible flowers
• Tajin spice or pink Himalayan salt rims

These touches turn a simple drink into a celebration.

Margarita FAQs

What is the 3-2-1 rule for margaritas?

It’s a simple formula: 3 parts tequila, 2 parts triple sec, 1 part lime juice.

What is a classic margarita made of?

Tequila, triple sec (or Cointreau), and lime juice—served over ice with a salted rim.

How to make a margarita in the UK?

Use quality spirits like Cazcabel or Olmeca, Cointreau, and freshly squeezed lime. No need for fancy imports.

Why is it called a dirty margarita?

A “dirty” margarita often includes brine (like from olives), giving it a salty, savoury twist—though it’s less common than the traditional recipe.

Feeling inspired? Tag us on Instagram @ArtisanHausUK with your favourite flavour combo!