Margarita Mix

A little salt around the rim, a touch of citrus and sweetness, and a big tequila bite -- how can something so simple taste so good? Margaritas are a staple of warm weather, evoking festive visions of Mexico in every sip. But the history behind this warm-weather favorite is just as evocative -- and shrouded in mystery. The origin of the cocktail is actually unknown. Although there are several versions, no one has been able to pinpoint which one is true. But they all make for good conversation over a round or two of the frosty concoctions.

Another story is about a Dallas socialite, named -- you guessed it -- Margarita Sames, whose party game of choice was to duck behind the bar and mix up all kinds of drinks for her guests with whatever was available. During a 1948 Christmas party at her vacation home in Acapulco, Mexico (must be nice), she threw together tequila, Cointreau and lime juice with great success. Her friends took the recipe stateside, and it spread like melted cheese sauce over a hot burrito.

And another prevalent tale in margarita history comes from Tommy's Place in Juarez, Mexico. Pancho Morales was working the bar in 1942 when a woman came up to him and ordered a drink called a Magnolia. Morales could not remember what was in a Magnolia, except Cointreau. So, he decided to fake it. After mixing Cointreau with tequila, he named the new concoction after another flower, the daisy. Bet you can guess what daisy is in Spanish.

There are other bars that claim to be the origin of the margarita, with other tales to tell. Whatever the real story, it's hard to beat a margarita in front of you on a warm, summery day.