Skinny Margarita
Published 4/20/2022 • Updated 8/17/2024
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This margarita recipe reminds us of Cinco de Mayo during the pandemic. We couldn’t gather in huge groups, so we each made batches these lightened-up margaritas in our own homes while on Facetime.
In the midst of a crazy time, these margaritas brought us so much joy. So now it is a tradition to make these not-so-sweet margaritas every single year with our favorite people.❤️
Our signature skinny margarita recipe is made with 4 simple ingredients: lime juice, tequila, ice, and your choice of honey or agave simple syrup!
What makes this a “skinny margarita?”
Oh the burning question, why is it even called a skinny margarita? Classic margaritas are actually already made with minimal ingredients, so the biggest thing with a “skinny margarita” is to cut the sugar count and if possible, make it sugar-free!
Sugar free? Well, refined sugar-free at least! We’re big on all-natural sweeteners and try and stay away from the weird fake sugar products at all costs. That’s why you’ll still see a handful of grams of all-natural sugar in our recipe.
We decided not to use a low-calorie sweetener such as stevia, because in our honest opinion, it really takes away from the flavor and authenticity of the drink.
Skinny Margarita Ingredients
Lime juice: Every good margarita begins with fresh, juicy limes. That’s right, none of that pre-packaged lime juice, people. Use real limes and squeeze them right before mixing!
High-quality tequila: here is nothing worse than a hangover from bad tequila and that’s why what tequila you buy matters! Spend a little extra dough on high-quality tequila…your hangover will thank you later. Favorite tequila for margaritas:
Sweetener: Most margaritas (like our frozen marg) call for agave. In this recipe, however, we are switching things up with a honey simple syrup. Good news for you, you can sub the honey for agave 1:1!
- Honey – a nuttier flavor and more pantry-friendly.
- Agave – more traditional and vegan!
- Sugar – seen in lots of cocktails.
Both honey and agave carry around the same amount of calories and sugar. So, whichever one you decide to go with is okay!
But where’s the triple sec?
For years we’ve been making our Fit Foodie Margarita sans triple sec. Triple sec is a sweet liqueur that does include refined sugar, which is why we opted not to use it in this recipe.
itching for some orange?
Since classic margaritas are made with triple sec, an orange liquor, you could add a splash of orange juice to this skinny margarita for a hint of orange.
Skinny Marg Ratio
We used the same ratio of tequila to lime juice to simple syrup for both recipes. Here’s the equation you need to know: 2 to 2 to 1
- 2-oz. tequila
- 2-oz. lime juice
- 1-oz. simple syrup
So, whether you want to serve 1, 2, or 8, just use that 2 to 2 to 1 ratio!
How to Make Pitcher Margs
Because why wouldn’t you want to mass-produce these margs? In the recipe card below, you’ll see we’re giving a recipe for both pitcher margaritas and a single-serve marg.
Simple pitcher directions: Simply, place 6 cups of ice into a large pitcher. Then, add in 16 oz. (or about 2 cups) of freshly squeezed lime juice, 16 oz. tequila, and 8 oz. honey simple syrup. Use a long wooden spoon to mix until combined.
don’t forget to salt the rim!
Finally, don’t forget to salt your rim for a classic “margarita on the rocks.” Simply pour coarse sea salt onto a plate and tap it a few times to even it out. Then, dip the rim of your glass in water and then into the salt.
What to Serve with Skinny Margaritas
Before we let you go we thought we’d give you some healthy Mexican recipe inspo to complete your fiesta!
Tacos – when in doubt make tacos! Here are some favs: ground beef tacos, IP lentil tacos, crockpot chicken tacos.
Apps – whip up our Mexican street corn salad, mango guacamole, black bean hummus, or loaded chicken nachos.
Sides – try our grilled Mexican street corn or Mexican quinoa salad!
Skinny Margarita Recipe
Ingredients
Honey Simple Syrup
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup honey, or agave nectar*
Pitcher Margaritas
- 16 oz. fresh lime juice, ~2 cups
- 16 oz. high-quality tequila, ~2 cups
- 8 oz. honey simple syrup, entire recipe from above (~1 cup)
- 6 cups ice
Single-Serve Margarita
- 2 oz. fresh lime juice
- 2 oz. high-quality tequila
- 1 oz. honey simple syrup
- optional: splash of orange juice
Instructions
- First prepare the honey simple syrup and add the water and honey to a small pot and bring to a boil over high heat. Turn heat to low and let simmer for 10 minutes (stirring periodically). Remove from heat and let cool.
- For a pitcher of margaritas, fill a large pitcher with around 6 cups of ice. Then, place 16 fl. oz lime juice, 16 fl. oz. tequila, and 8 fl. oz. of honey simple syrup into a pitcher. Use a long wooden spoon to mix to combine. Serve over ice with fresh lime slices and a salty rim.
- For a single-serve margarita, place a handful of ice into a cocktail shaker. Then, add 2 fl. oz. lime juice, 2 fl. oz. tequila, and 1 fl. oz. honey simple syrup. Place the top on and shake to combine. Serve over ice with limes and a salty rim.
Tips & Notes
- Honey: option to swap the honey for agave nectar. Both are great choices for this skinny margarita.
Watch It
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Don’t forget to tag your posts on social media with the hashtag #fitfoodiefinds, we’d love to see what you’re up to!
I recently discovered an excellent recipe for a low-calorie margarita that offers a sophisticated alternative to traditional versions. The recipe innovatively substitutes refined sugar with natural sweeteners – specifically honey and agave nectar – while maintaining the classic margarita taste profile. A particularly noteworthy addition is the subtle inclusion of fresh orange juice, which adds complexity to the flavor composition.
This cocktail would be an excellent choice for health-conscious entertaining, as it provides a balanced approach to alcoholic beverages without compromising on taste. The recipe thoughtfully considers those monitoring their sugar intake while still delivering a refined drinking experience. I look forward to serving this at my next social gathering.
For those interested in crafting elevated yet mindful cocktails, this recipe is certainly worth consideration.
OMG! squeals with delight 🍹✨ I just found the most adorable little skinny margarita recipe and I’m totally in love! It’s super duper amazing how they used nature’s sweetest gifts (honey and agave, how precious!) instead of regular sugar! happy dance
The best part? It still tastes absolutely divine! chef’s kiss And the super clever tip about adding a tiny splash of orange juice? Pure genius! 🍊 I can’t wait to shake up this guilt-free cutie at my next gathering! bounces excitedly
It’s like a little hug in a glass for those of us trying to watch our sugar intake! 🥰 My taste buds are doing a happy little dance just thinking about it! Can’t wait to give this sweetie a try! ✨🌟
sips imaginary margarita with pinky up Cheers to healthy-ish cocktails! 🥂