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Skinny Margarita Recipe

Gavin Wrigley Written by Gavin Wrigley
5 from 1 vote
Sip on this Skinny Margarita recipe to beat the heat! Made with tequila, fresh lime juice, and agave nectar, this lighter cocktail is a guilt-free way to enjoy your summer.
Prep time: 1 minute
Mixing time: 1 minute
Servings: 1
Calories: 156

Ingredients
 

  • 1½ oz Tequila
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • ½ oz agave nectar
  • ½ oz orange juice
  • Ice cubes
  • Lime wheel or wedge - for garnish, optional
  • Salt - for rimming the glass, optional

Equipment

  • Cocktail Shaker
  • Measuring Jigger
  • Old Fashioned Glass or Margarita Glass
  • Lime Squeezer

Instructions

  • Prep Glass: Fill your glass with ice cubes.
  • Add Agave Nectar: Measure and pour ½ oz agave nectar into the shaker.
  • Add Orange juice: Pour ½ oz orange juice into the shaker.
  • Add Lime Juice: Squeeze some limes to get 1 oz fresh lime juice and add it to the shaker.
  • Add Tequila: Pour 1½ oz Tequila into the cocktail shaker.
  • Shake Well: Cap the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
  • Prep Glass: If you like a salted rim, empty your old fashioned, run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass and dip it into salt.
  • Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into your prepared glass.
  • Garnish: Place a lime wheel or wedge into the glass for garnish.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Tequila: If you're out of tequila, you can use mezcal for a smokier flavor. I've also used vodka, but it does change the drink's character.
  • Lime Juice: I've used bottled lime juice in a pinch, but fresh is always best. Lemon juice can also work, but expect a different citrus profile.
  • Agave Nectar: Honey or simple syrup can replace agave nectar. Honey adds a floral note, while simple syrup is more neutral.

Making a Pitcher of Skinny Margarita:

  • Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all the ingredients by 8. That would be 12 oz of tequila, 8 oz of lime juice, 4 oz of orange juice and 4 oz of agave nectar.
  • Mix: In a large pitcher, combine the tequila, lime juice, and agave nectar. Stir well.
  • Serve: Pour the mixture into ice-filled glasses, garnish with a lime wheel or wedge, and serve immediately.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Tequila Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic tequila substitute or coconut water for a tropical twist.
  • Proceed As Usual: Use these non-alcoholic substitutes and follow the original steps to enjoy a non-alcoholic Skinny Margarita.

Making it Vegan:

  • Agave Nectar: Good news! The original recipe is vegan, using agave nectar instead of honey or other animal-derived sweeteners. Just ensure your tequila is vegan-friendly, as some brands use animal products in filtration.