grapefruit margarita

I've been experimenting with margarita recipes to go with my bottle of añejo tequila and so far this is my favorite. Use real grapefruits and real limes; no cheating with bottled juice. You can cheat and use a less expensive tequila than the one I do, though. Use any tequila, as long as it’s 100% agave. Otherwise I guarantee you will have a headache.

makes 1 cocktail

prep time: 4 minutes

1 jigger (1-1/2 oz) 100% agave tequila
1/3 cup freshly squeezed pink grapefruit juice
juice of 1/2 lime
2 tablespoons simple syrup (see below)

margarita salt for glass, if desired

lime peel for garnish

Fill a cocktail shaker about half full with ice. Add tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice and simple syrup. Shake well, then pour into a margarita glass or other stemmed cocktail glass, salted rim optional.

Or, pour over rocks in a highball glass.

Garnish with lime peel and drink up!

to make simple syrup: combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup water in a small pot. Bring to a boil, swirling pot so sugar dissolves. Boil 3 minutes, then turn off heat and let cool. Store in a jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.