I’m sure it comes as no surprise that I love a good margarita. Pina coladas and strawberry daiquiris are delicious (and good sans alcohol — margaritas are not), but they’re more like a dessert than a drink. And the best kind of margarita, obviously, does not come pre-made.

Luckily, it’s not super hard to make your own. All you need are some limes, some agave syrup (or simple syrup), tequila and Cointreau.

Juicing the limes is the most time-intensive part, but you can do it ahead of time (or, do what I do and make your husband do it). And the results are delicious. You can always drink the pre-made kind after you run out of lime juice. Just don’t drink so many you forget to take photos (oops!).

Classic margaritas (Makes a small pitcher — about 6 small margaritas, adapted from the Wall Street Journal)
12 ounces tequila (get one that says 100% agave on the label)
4.5 ounces Cointreau
4.5 ounces lime juice (freshly squeezed strongly preferred)
1.5 ounces agave nectar (available near the honey in most grocery stores, or use simple syrup)
Lots of ice
Kosher salt and limes to garnish (optional)

Stir the tequila, Cointreau, lime juice and agave nectar in a pitcher. Add lots of ice and stir again. Taste before serving.
(To salt the rim of a glass, rub a lime around the rim and then dip/rub in salt)