Cinco de Mayo!

Today is Cinco de Mayo ~ the commemoration of the victory of Mexican forces over the French in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Lots of celebrating is going on today, particularly in nearby Mexicantown in Southwest Detroit. Wish I could be there, but unfortunately I was unable to play hooky from work. However, in honor of this day, I'd like to post a recipe for one of my favorite cocktails, the Margarita. One is sounding really appealing right now, and it's only 10 a.m. Nothing fancy here, just a straight up traditional Margarita. Muy delicioso!

Classic Margarita

Ingredients:

4 ounces tequila 2 ounces Cointreau, Triple Sec or another favorite orange-flavored liqueur 2 ounces fresh lime juice (takes about two limes, depending on how fat & juicy they are) 1 teaspoon simple syrup, or 1/2 teaspoon of sugar, depending on how sour your limes are. Lime rounds for garnish

Directions:

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add all ingredients and shake for 30 seconds. Set aside. Place a lime round into the base of a salt-rimmed martini glass. Shake the margarita 15 seconds more, then strain into the glass. Serve immediately. If rocks are desired, place the garnish into the base of a highball glass, fill halfway with ice and pour margarita over the top.

Simple Syrup is Easy to make: Take one part sugar and one part water, bring it to a boil, stir to dissolve and cool. Can be made as far in advance as you like; just store it in the fridge.