When you are planning for a crowd, think about serving the drinks in a big dispenser. This certainly makes entertaining easier. No bartender duties for anyone! I will make up large containers of my party beverages beforehand and put them in the freezer to get them slushy... this cuts down on the need for as much ice and the drinks don't become so diluted.
CLASSIC MARGARITA
Makes one cocktail
In a cocktail shaker with ice, combine…
1.5 ounces tequila (use any good quality tequila, I prefer blanco or white instead of anjeo, reposado or other)
1.5 ounces fresh squeezed lime juice
1 ounce orange liqueur (Grand Marnier)
½ teaspoon agave nectar (or you can use 1 teaspoon. Confectioner’s sugar)
*To make into Pomegranate Margaritas, add 1 ounce Pama Liqueur and reduce the orange liqueur to a splash. Add a splash of club soda to make it really fresh and light.
Shake until well chilled. Pour in a glass rimmed with kosher salt.
FOR A CROWD: 20 people
In a large dispenser or pitcher, mix together
4 cups tequila
4 cups fresh squeezed lime juice
2 ½ cups orange liqueur
¼ cup agave nectar (or ¼ cup Confectioner’s sugar)
3-5 cups club soda or to your taste to lighten a bit if you like; the melting ice will also dilute slightly
Ice
POMEGRANATE MARGARITAS
To make into Pomegranate Margaritas, add 2 cups Pama Liqueur and reduce the orange liqueur to ½ cup. Lighten with a little club soda, if desired.
Note: A good quality tequila is important because this drink is all about the tequila. I always add the ice at the last moment before guests arrive. The melting ice will slightly dilute the drinks or you can add the club soda to your taste to also dilute them slightly if the party will be going on for hours.
