High Spirits

ROCK

STEADY

by

KATE BERNOT

The star of a great margarita isn’t fussy preparation; it’s the tang of fresh citrus and the delicious lick of a salt rim.

That’s why, summer after summer, this cocktail is king. To keep your recipe fresh, try coating the lip of the glass with flavored salts in place of the regular kind. It adds a twist to the end of each sip, whether you’re craving spice, citrus, or herbal flavors.

Sure, you can find these blends at specialty grocery stores, but they’re just as easy to make at home. Pulse grated lime and lemon zest in a blender with kosher salt or sea salt for an added citrus pop. Combine equal parts salt and roasted, grated Szechuan peppers for a bit of lingering heat. Or, if your herb garden is in bloom, toss the salt with your freshest picked leaves. Whichever garnishes you choose, remember the 2-1-1-1 ratio for margaritas: Two parts tequila to one part each lime juice and triple sec, plus one whole day to enjoy the drinks.