PITCHER OF MARGARITAS WITH LIMEADE RECIPES

Steps:

• In a pitcher, combine the first 5 ingredients; stir until sugar is dissolved. Moisten rims of 4 margarita or cocktail glasses with lime wedges. Sprinkle salt on a plate; dip rims in salt. Serve over crushed ice in prepared glasses.

Steps:

• Note: If making one drink, super fine sugar can work in a pinch in place of simple syrup. Just be sure to stir well to fully dissolve sugar.For one margarita:If you like a salt-rimmed glass, moisten the rim of your glass with a lime wedge. Then turn the glass over and dip into a small plate of coarse salt. Pour tequila, Cointreau, and lime juice into glass. Add simple syrup, according to your preference of sweetness. I usually add about 1 teaspoon per drink. Give the drink a quick stir and then fill glass with ice. Squeeze a wedge or two of fresh lime over the top and then add the wedges to the drink. Promptly enjoy!For a crowd:Prepare simple syrup up to a day in advance and let it chill in the refrigerator.About 1 hour before guests are to arrive, measure tequila, Cointreau, and lime juice into a small pitcher. Give it a stir and then place in the refrigerator to chill.As you are creating margaritas for individual guests, moisten the rim of each glass with a lime wedge and then dip rims in a small plate of coarse salt, for those who prefer a salt-crusted rim. Then pour 1/2 cup of your chilled premix into each glass, followed by simple syrup (a little or a lot, depending on each guest's preference), and give a little stir. Fill with ice almost to the top of each glass, and then squeeze another small lime wedge over the top of each drink for those who like a little extra pucker. Hand off to your guests to enjoy.For the simple syrup:Simple syrup is so easy to make, and takes only about 5 minutes! In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, stir together water and sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring, until sugar has completely dissolved. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature. Store in a covered jar or container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 weeks. Use to sweeten any of your favorite beverages.