Margaritas For A Crowd

Directions

1. Just before serving, in a half gallon pitcher combine the tequila, the minimum amount of Cointreau or possibly Triple Sec and the lime juice. Taste and add in more orange liqueur if you think your margaritas need more sweet oranginess to balance the other flavors. Remember, you're tasting it hot and undiluted; when chilled and diluted, the flavors will be mellower and the lime's tartness will be more attractive.
2. Pour several Tbsp. of lime juice onto a small plate and several Tbsp. coarse salt onto another. Have martini glasses at hand (refrigeratethem for an extra special touch).
3. As your guests ask for their margaritas, invert a glass into the plate with the lime juice to moisten rim, then lightly dip into the plate with the slat. For each drink measure 2 ounces (1/4 c.) of the margarita mix into a cocktail shaker. If you have a 2-oz ladle which you can keep in the pitcher, measuring goes much faster. Add in ice cubes (5 cubes for 1, 8 for 2, 10 for 3). Secure the lid and top and shake vigorously for 10 to 15 seconds. Strain into the salt crusted glasses and hand off to the lucky recipients.
4. Yield: 20 to 24 old-fashioned margaritas.