The P-E-R-F-E-C-T Margarita

As recipes go, there is nothing more simple, or more satisfying, than the perfect margarita. Possibly its the additional steps-delicately rimming the glass with salt, squeezing the lime down to the pulp, or measuring out those shots of liquid amber magic- that elevate this drink way above the normal glass of wine. Or maybe its just the awesome way the word mar-ga-rita! rolls around in your mouth. Whatever it is, margaritas have become an art, a delicacy, and of course the crowning prize to Tuesday night's celebration. 

Now, as with every artistic work, the temperance of the piece is keenly important. I hate to narrow down the perfect margarita to a precise receipt when the margarita is truly so much more than tequila, lime, and salt. Margaritas are the fiesta in a glass, the thrill of ice tinkling off a sparkling rim, and the delicate romance between sweet and salty. Every margarita is slightly different- a little heavier on the tequila one night, a little lighter on the ice the next- but every margarita magically balances the mood of the night, lending those scarce evening moments just the right touch of pucker, spritz, and smooth to make things, well, perfect. At the end of the night, the margarita, at least in this household, always welcomes in the same reprieve: a few hours simply spent in love, and joy, and relaxation.

And so folks, here it is: the recipe for the perfect margarita. Adjust it as you will for your own Tuesday (or whenever) celebration.

Serves: 1
-1 lime
-Salt for the rim
- 100% de Agave Tequila
-Sparkling water
-Liquid Stevia 8-12 drops
-Ice cubes 4-6

1. Slice the lime in two and rub one half around the rim of your glass to make it slightly wet. Dunk your glass in salt for a nicely coated rim.
2. Squeeze the whole lime into your glass (pulp is great but seeds are not a winner).
3. Add ice.
4. Add 1-2 shots of tequila (subbing in a shot of grand mariner or elderflower liqueur for one of the shots is also delicious).
5. Add stevia to taste
6  Top with sparkling water, stir and serve.

One or two of these bad boys and you will be in heaven.