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This lemon margarita is one of my go-to cocktails—bright, citrusy, and made with just four simple ingredients. I make it often during spring and summer, especially when my Meyer lemon trees are full!
Want more margarita recipes? Try my skinny margarita, lemonade margarita, raspberry margarita, and cucumber margarita.
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I love a good margarita—it’s my go-to drink after a long day, and this lemon version is one I make all the time!
I use Meyer lemons from my trees—they’re sweet, juicy, and perfect for cocktails. And if my lavender’s in full bloom, I’ll shake up a lavender margarita too!
It’s a bright, citrusy twist on the classic marg that’s always a hit
Comes together in minutes with just a few simple ingredients
If I have extra lemons make lemon drop shots, bee’s knees, lemon mules or a smoky mule!
Lemon Margarita Ingredient Notes
Tequila: Go for a good blanco or reposado. The better the tequila, the better the marg!
Orange Liqueur: I love using Cointreau or Grand Marnier, but triple sec or even a splash of OJ works too.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is a must. I use Meyer lemons for that sweet, citrusy twist.
Simple Syrup: Balances the tart lemon. You can also use agave or honey syrup if you prefer.
Salt (or Sugar): For rimming your glass! Salt is classic, but sugar gives it a fun, lemon drop vibe.
How to Make a Lemon Margarita
Prepare Glasses: Rub lemon around glass rims and dip in salt for an optional salt rim garnish.
Mix Base Spirits: Combine tequila, triple sec, and fresh lemon juice in a cocktail shaker.
Add Sweetener: Pour in simple syrup to balance the citrus flavors.
Shake Cocktail: Add ice cubes and shake until well chilled.
Pour Drink: Strain into prepared glasses over fresh ice.
Garnish: Top with lemon zest and garnish with lemon wedge or fresh rosemary
Recipe Tips & Variations
Get more juice: Roll your lemons on the counter before cutting to release as much juice as possible.
Shake it well: A 20-second shake chills the drink and brings all the flavors together perfectly.
Sweeten to taste: Start with less simple syrup and adjust as needed. It’s easier to add more than to take it out.
Skinny version: Use agave syrup for a lighter, natural sweetener.
For a Crowd: To make a pitcher, simply multiply the recipe and shake or stir well before serving. Great for parties!
Add a kick: Toss in a slice of jalapeño or use jalapeño-infused tequila for a spicy twist.
How to Make a Salt Rim
Rub a lemon wedge around the rim of your glass, then dip it in salt or sugar. Tip: avoid salting the inside of the glass—it can overpower the drink.
More Margarita Recipes
If you love this simple lemon margarita, then try any of these:
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Lemon Margarita
Ingredients
- 2 ounces tequila
- 1 ounce lemon juice, fresh
- 1 ounce orange liqueur, Cointreau
- 1/2 ounce simple syrup
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
- salt , for the rim
Instructions
- First, salt the rim of each glass.
- Add the ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake for 20 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into your prepared cocktail glass with a salted rim.
- Add a 1/2 teaspoon of lemon zest over the top. Then add a lemon wedge or a fresh spring of rosemary to garnish.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Deeeeelishus!!!! Trying to use all our Meyer lemons from our tree. THIS is the solution!!
This Lemon Margarita is amazing! I can’t wait to make it again and again!
This was so refreshing, the perfect drink for a hot and humid day!! I could not get enough! I am making a pitcher of this this weekend and can’t wait!