the perfect margarita

Since I was 21 years old, I shied away from margaritas. I think it stems from a couple experiences. I remember trying a margarita at a party in college and was not impressed with the flavors: overly sweet, overly sour, overly artifical. At the time, it didn't dawn on me that college kids make the cheapest possible drinks with the lowest-end ingredients. Also, I remember reading the label of one of those big tubs of margarita mix about 8 years ago and saw that there were 53 grams of sugar per serving!

After those two experiences, I decided to steer clear of margaritas. But within the past couple years, margaritas are making a big comeback. Many taquerias are now serving "skinny" versions without all the sugary mix. I've tried them a handful of times in restaurants, and they're refreshing, a little strong (since only a couple ingredients are used) and a lot overpriced. Most skinny margaritas I've had set me back around $10.

Over the past couple years, an unsung hero has perfected the margarita. I wish I could take credit, but I'm the first to admit I'm a horrible mixologist.

The recipe is simple, but I'd venture it's one of the tastiest versions out there. I think the true success of this recipe is in the proportions, since most people use the same ingredients for maragaritas.

On a scale from healthiest to guiltiest, it teeters right in the middle. I figure that if I'm only having one margarita every week or two, then right in the middle is ok :)

The Perfect Margarita

Ingredients:

• 1 shot tequila
• 1/2 shot triple sec or grand marnier
• 1/2 shot margarita mix (not a sugar-free mix)
• 1/2 fresh lime (juice)
• Fresca

Basically, it's quite simple. Fill a glass with ice, add first four ingredients, then top with Fresca until glass is full and gently stir.

If you've got a Tervis Tumbler, I'd suggest using it. It keeps your drink cooler, plus, no sweat.

Now, I know many of you think I'm crazy for sharing this recipe after I recently kicked off a breastfeeding series. Have no fear for James Michael :) I have my one margarita after he goes to bed, when I know it will be 7 or 8 hours before I'll nurse him again.