My drink of choice is an additive-free tequila (if you check online, you might be surprised to see that your favorite blanco has additives). I like mine shaken with lots of fresh lime- like a whole lime’s worth, and jalapeño, with a spicy rim. I steer clear of the spicy elixirs many specialty cocktail bars offer just because I prefer a fresh chile pepper or jalapeño.

This margarita has become my signature. I make it at home, take it to parties, and even pour one into a to-go cup when I’m walking to an event in the city. It’s that easy, that good, and always strong.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz Additive-free blanco tequila (I use LALO)

• Juice of 1 whole lime

• 2–3 slices Fresh jalapeño (plus extra for garnish)

• Splash of sparkling water (optional)

• Ice

• JF Spicy Salt

• Tajín

• Pinch of coconut sugar (for a touch of sweetness)

• Fresh lime wedge

PROCESS

1. Add tequila, lime juice, and jalapeño slices to a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake hard — this is your arm workout for the day.

2. Crack open the shaker and strain into a glass with a few ice cubes (never a giant rock).

3. Rub a lime wedge along one side of the glass rim, then dip into your rim mixture — equal parts JF Spicy Salt, Tajín, and a pinch of coconut sugar. Don’t rim the whole glass — just one side so you can control each sip.

4. Optional: Top with a splash of sparkling water for a lighter version.

5. Garnish with a fresh jalapeño or Fresno slice for color.

NOTES

• Always use a whole lime — it’s what gives this drink its zingy, fresh flavor.

• Skip the syrups and bottled mixes; this margarita doesn’t need them.

• If you like it sweeter, add a tiny drizzle of agave or coconut sugar to taste.

• You can easily batch this recipe — just multiply everything by however many guests you’re serving.

• Prefer smoky? Try swapping in mezcal for the tequila.