I’m always on the lookout for the best low calorie tequila drinks.
I’ve always had a soft spot for tequila cocktails, not just for their smooth kick, but also because they often come with fewer calories compared to other spirits. I still remember the moment I learned of sugar free tequila drinks—what a revelation it was!
I was hosting a summer party, and while I was prepping for a fiesta-worthy evening, I learned that I could pair my beloved tequila with low-calorie mixers and still enjoy all the flavor without the guilt. It felt like finding a hidden treasure.
Tequila cocktails don’t have to be calorie bombs; with a few smart swaps, you can sip on delicious drinks and keep your waistline happy. So, if you’re like me and love a good tequila drink but want to keep things light, you’re in for a treat.
Let’s get into our list of the 10 best healthiest tequila drinks and discover how to enjoy your favorite tequila-based cocktails in a guilt-free way!
Is Tequila Low Calorie?
Tequila is a great choice for those looking to enjoy a lower-calorie alcoholic beverage. It contains approximately 69-97 calories per 1.5-ounce shot, depending on the brand and proof.
This makes it a lower-calorie option compared to many other spirits, which typically have around 100-120 calories per shot. Its low sugar and carbohydrate content further contribute to its status as a light choice for enjoying cocktails.
Tips for Creating Delicious Low Calorie Tequila Drinks
Creating a fantastic healthy tequila drink doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor. Here’s how to make your tequila cocktails both delicious and light:
- Choose the Right Tequila: Opt for 100% agave tequila. It’s purer and tends to have fewer calories compared to mixed tequilas. I recommend El Negocio Tequila Blanco. It’s a premium, additive-free tequila, known for its pure, high-quality taste and smooth profile.
- Watch Your Portion Sizes: Even low-calorie mixers can add up if you use too much. Stick to recommended amounts and focus on flavor rather than quantity.
- Experiment with Spices and Herbs: Add a dash of chili powder or fresh herbs like mint, basil, or a sprig of rosemary to elevate your cocktail’s flavor profile without added sugars or extra calories.
Top 10 Low Calorie Tequila Drinks
These are 10 of the best low cal tequila drinks out there:
Tequila Soda
- 🥃 1.5 oz tequila: ~97 calories
- 🥤 Club soda: 0 calories
- 🍋 Lime wedge for garnish: ~1 calorie
Total: ~98 calories
Instructions: Pour tequila over ice in a glass, top with club soda, and garnish with a lime wedge.
Skinny Margarita
- 🥃 1.5 oz tequila: ~97 calories
- 🍋 Fresh lime juice: ~8 calories
- 🍊 Splash of orange juice or orange liqueur: ~7 calories
- 🍯 Optional: a little agave syrup for sweetness: ~20 calories
Total: ~112-132 calories
Instructions: Shake tequila, lime juice, orange juice, and agave syrup with ice, then strain into a glass filled with ice.
Tequila and Sparkling Water
- 🥃 1.5 oz tequila: ~97 calories
- 🥤 Flavored sparkling water (like lime or grapefruit): 0 calories
Total: ~97 calories
Instructions: Combine tequila and flavored sparkling water over ice in a glass, and stir gently.
Tequila Gimlet
- 🥃 1.5 oz tequila: ~97 calories
- 🍋 Fresh lime juice: ~8 calories
- 🍯 A splash of simple syrup (use sparingly): ~24 calories
Total: ~129 calories
Instructions: Shake tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup with ice, then strain into a chilled glass.
Paloma Light
- 🥃 1.5 oz tequila: ~97 calories
- 🍊 Fresh grapefruit juice: ~20 calories
- 🥤 Club soda: 0 calories
- 🍯 Optional: a touch of agave syrup: ~20 calories
Total: ~117-137 calories
Instructions: Mix tequila, fresh grapefruit juice, and club soda over ice, adding agave syrup if desired.
Tequila Sunrise Light
- 🥃 1.5 oz tequila: ~97 calories
- 🍊 Fresh orange juice (2 oz): ~28 calories
- 🍒 Splash of grenadine (0.25 oz): ~25 calories
Total: ~150 calories
Instructions: Pour tequila and orange juice over ice, then slowly add grenadine to create a sunrise effect.
Tequila Collins
- 🥃 1.5 oz tequila: ~97 calories
- 🍋 Fresh lemon juice (1 oz): ~6 calories
- 🍯 A splash of simple syrup (0.5 oz): ~24 calories
- 🥤 Club soda: 0 calories
Total: ~127 calories
Instructions: Shake tequila, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice, then strain into a glass filled with ice and top with club soda.
Tequila Mule
- 🥃 1.5 oz tequila: ~97 calories
- 🍋 Fresh lime juice (1 oz): ~8 calories
- 🥤 Diet ginger beer (4 oz): ~0 calories
Total: ~105 calories
Instructions: Mix tequila and lime juice over ice, then top with diet ginger beer and stir gently.
Tequila and Coconut Water
- 🥃 1.5 oz tequila: ~97 calories
- 🥥 Coconut water (4 oz): ~19 calories
Total: ~116 calories
Instructions: Pour tequila and coconut water over ice in a glass, and stir to combine.
Tequila and Cucumber
- 🥃 1.5 oz tequila: ~97 calories
- 🥒 Fresh cucumber juice (2 oz): ~8 calories
- 🍋 Fresh lime juice (1 oz): ~8 calories
- 🍯 Optional: a touch of agave syrup (1 tsp): ~20 calories
Total: ~113-133 calories
Instructions: Shake tequila, cucumber juice, lime juice, and agave syrup with ice, then strain into a chilled glass.
Related: Check out our complete recipe for a Cucumber Tequila Drink!
Conclusion
Enjoying a tequila cocktail doesn’t mean you have to compromise on your health goals. With low-calorie mixers and fresh ingredients, you can savor every sip of your favorite drinks without the extra calories. So, the next time you’re mixing up a cocktail, remember these tips and make a choice that’s both tasty and kind to your waistline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best low calorie tequila drinks?
The best low-calorie tequila drinks include options like the Skinny Margarita, Tequila Sunrise with soda water, and a refreshing Tequila Mojito with fresh mint and lime.
What tequila has the least calories?
100% agave tequila generally has fewer calories compared to mixed tequilas. Look for brands that specify “100% agave” on the label for a purer, lower-calorie option.
What is the healthiest mixer for tequila?
The healthiest mixers for tequila include soda water, fresh lime juice, and flavored sparkling water. These options are low in calories and sugar, making them perfect for a healthier cocktail.
