Gather ingredients: tequila, lime juice (fresh or bottled), triple sec (or Cointreau), kosher salt, and ice
Optional: simple syrup or agave nectar (to taste)
Salt the rim: rub a lime wedge around the rim of a glass, then dip the rim in salt
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice
Add 2 oz tequila, 1 oz triple sec, and 1 oz fresh lime juice
Optional: add 0.25–0.5 oz simple syrup/agave if you want it sweeter
Shake vigorously for 10–20 seconds
Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice (or into a salt-rimmed glass without ice)
Garnish with a lime wedge (optional)
Serve immediately