Hey friends! As someone who’s always been on a journey to keep things healthy while still enjoying life’s pleasures, I’ve spent a lot of time finding ways to enjoy my favorite cocktails without feeling guilty. When it comes to tequila, it’s one of those spirits that I just can’t resist, but I’ve found that with the right mixers and ingredients, you can keep the calories in check and still enjoy a delicious drink.
If you’re working on your weight loss journey like I am and reached the legal drinking age and if you just want to cut back on empty calories, these 20 best low calorie tequila drinks are perfect! Here’s a guide to the best low-calorie tequila drinks I’ve tried and loved, along with the full recipes and my personal thoughts. Let’s dive in!
Low-Calorie Tequila Drinks
A low-calorie tequila drink is a cocktail made with tequila as the primary spirit among all those types of spirits and paired with ingredients that minimize calorie content. The goal is to enjoy a flavorful beverage while avoiding high-sugar mixers, syrups, and heavy creams that can increase the drink’s calorie count.
These drinks are ideal for those who are mindful of their calorie intake but still want to enjoy a refreshing cocktail. You can use several calorie calculator to find the exact calorie of each drink.
Key Characteristics of Low-Calorie Tequila Drinks
- Use of Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime, lemon, or grapefruit juice often replace sugary pre-made mixes.
- Natural Sweeteners: Agave syrup or stevia are used sparingly instead of sugar or artificial syrups.
- Low-Calorie Mixers: Sparkling water, diet soda, or light tonic are preferred over soda or juice with added sugar.
- Portion Control: Serving sizes are kept reasonable to ensure calorie counts remain low.
Why Is Tequila a Popular Choice for Low-Calorie Cocktails?
- Low-Calorie Spirit: A standard shot of tequila (1.5 oz) contains about 96 calories and alcohol percentage of tequila is 40% , which is on par with other clear spirits like vodka or gin.
- No Added Sugar: Pure tequila, especially 100% agave tequila, doesn’t contain added sugars.
- Versatility: Its clean, slightly sweet, and earthy taste pairs well with low-calorie mixers like citrus juice or soda water.
- Diet-Friendly Reputation: Tequila is often associated with being keto-friendly due to its lack of carbs and sugars.
20 Best Low Calorie Tequila Drinks
1. Tequila Sunrise (Light Version)
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz tequila
- 3 oz fresh orange juice
- 1 dash of grenadine
- Ice
Recipe:
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Pour in the tequila and fresh orange juice.
- Add a small amount of grenadine to create a gradient effect.
- Stir gently.
Calories: Around 120 calories
My Review:
The first time I tried a lighter version of a Tequila Sunrise, I was skeptical. I didn’t think it would pack as much flavor, but I was pleasantly surprised. The fresh orange juice and the dash of grenadine give it that classic sweet yet tart taste, and the tequila adds just enough depth. This drink became my go-to on weekend mornings when I’m watching my calories but still want to enjoy something vibrant and fresh. I’ve found that it keeps me satisfied without overindulging.
2. Skinny Margarita
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 oz triple sec (low-calorie version)
- 1 tsp agave syrup (optional)
- Salt for rim
Recipe:
- Rim your glass with salt.
- In a shaker, combine the tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and agave syrup (if using).
- Shake well with ice and strain into the glass.
Calories: About 150 calories
My Review:
I’ll be honest, I’m a sucker for a good margarita, but I wanted something that wouldn’t sabotage my weight loss goals. The Skinny Margarita was an absolute revelation. The lime juice gives it that refreshing tang, and the agave syrup sweetens it just enough without overloading on sugar. It’s my favorite when I’m out with friends, especially because it’s both satisfying and guilt-free.
3. Tequila and Soda
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- Club soda
- Lime wedge
Recipe:
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Pour in the tequila and top with club soda.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
Calories: About 100 calories
My Review:
This is by far one of the simplest drinks on the list, and it’s perfect for when you don’t want to overcomplicate things but still crave a tasty drink. I started making these on my weight loss journey because they’re so light, and the club soda adds that refreshing fizz I need. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare, which makes it ideal for lazy weekends or a night in with friends.
4. Cucumber Tequila Cooler
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 4 cucumber slices
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 tsp agave syrup
- Club soda
Recipe:
- To extract the juice, muddle the cucumber slices in a shaker.
- Shake with ice after adding the agave syrup, lime juice, and tequila.
- Pour through a strainer into a glass and add club soda on top.
Calories: About 120 calories
My Review:
I stumbled across this drink during a trip to a local bar, and it instantly became a favorite! The cucumber adds such a crisp, refreshing flavor, and the tequila gives it a little bit of warmth. This drink is perfect for a hot summer afternoon when you want something cool and light. I often drink this while on my weight loss journey, and it helps me stay refreshed without consuming too many calories.
5. Paloma (Low-Cal Version)
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 3 oz grapefruit juice
- 1 oz lime juice
- Club soda
Recipe:
- Pour the tequila, grapefruit juice, and lime juice into a glass with ice.
- Top with club soda and stir gently.
Calories: Around 120 calories
My Review:
This is hands down one of my favorite tequila drinks of all time! The slight bitterness of the grapefruit mixed with the citrusy zing of the lime is incredibly refreshing. It’s the kind of drink that feels indulgent, but it’s super low in calories. I’ll often make one after a workout—it’s hydrating, low-cal, and gives me the post-exercise refreshment I need without ruining my calorie count for the day.
6. Tequila Mojito
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 8-10 mint leaves
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- Club soda
Recipe:
- Muddle the mint leaves with lime juice and honey in a shaker.
- Add the tequila and shake well with ice.
- At last, you can strain it into a glass and top with club soda.
Calories: About 140 calories
My Review:
If you love mojitos but don’t want to deal with the sugar overload, this tequila mojito is the way to go. The mint adds such a refreshing touch, and the tequila brings a bit of heat. I personally love it when I’m craving something sweet but don’t want to fall off track during my weight loss journey. The honey adds a little sweetness without being too much, and the club soda keeps things light.
7. Tequila Lemonade
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 4 oz lemonade (low-calorie)
- Lemon slices
Recipe:
- Mix the tequila and lemonade in a shaker with ice.
- Now you can strain into a glass and garnish with some two lemon slices.
Calories: About 130 calories
My Review:
This one always brings me back to those warm, relaxing summer days. Tequila and lemonade are a perfect pairing, and using low-cal lemonade means I can enjoy it without feeling guilty. It’s light, refreshing, and surprisingly satisfying. When I was in the middle of my weight loss journey, this became a regular drink option for me—low-calorie and high on flavor.
8. Tequila Lime Fizz
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 1 oz lime juice
- Club soda
- Lime wedge
Recipe:
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Pour in tequila and lime juice, top with club soda.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
Calories: Around 100 calories
My Review:
This is the kind of drink that’s simple yet so refreshing. The lime juice gives it that tart kick, and the club soda adds just the right amount of fizz. It’s light, fun, and a go-to for me when I want something I can sip on all evening. This drink definitely became a staple as I worked on shedding a few pounds—it’s not too sweet, and it’s super low in calories.
9. Tequila Berry Smash
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 4-5 fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- Club soda
Recipe:
- Muddle the berries in a shaker.
- Add tequila, lime juice, and honey (if using), and shake with ice.
- Now it is ready to strain into a glass and then top with club soda.
Calories: About 150 calories
My Review:
When I’m craving something a little more decadent but still low-calorie, the Tequila Berry Smash is my go-to. The berries add just the right amount of sweetness, and the tequila gives it that extra edge. I love making these for gatherings or when I’m in the mood for something that feels a little more special but still fits into my healthy eating plan.
10. Tequila Tonic
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 4 oz tonic water (diet version)
- Lime wedge
Recipe:
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Pour in the tequila and top with diet tonic water.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
Calories: About 120 calories
My Review:
This drink has become my “go-to” when I want something similar to a gin and tonic but without the heavy calories. I love the bitterness of tonic paired with the smoothness of tequila. It’s the perfect drink when I’m looking for something crisp and light. During my weight loss journey, I’ve found that this drink is a great way to curb my cravings without indulging too much.
11. Spicy Skinny Margarita
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 oz triple sec (low-calorie version)
- 1 tsp agave syrup
- 2-3 jalapeño slices
- Salt for rim
- Ice
Recipe:
- Rim your glass with salt.
- Muddle jalapeño slices in a shaker.
- Pour in the agave syrup, triple sec, lime juice, and tequila. Use ice and shake well.
- Strain over new ice into the prepared glass.
Calories: About 140 calories
My Review:
I tried this drink during my “spicy phase” and fell in love. The kick from the jalapeño balances so well with the tangy lime and smooth tequila. It’s perfect for when I’m feeling adventurous or need a drink to spice up my week!
12. Grapefruit Tequila Spritz
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 3 oz unsweetened grapefruit juice
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 oz sparkling wine (dry)
- Ice
Recipe:
- Pour needed ice into a glass.
- Add the grapefruit juice, lime juice, and tequila.
- Add sparkling wine on top and swirl gently.
Calories: About 120 calories
My Review:
This spritz is my go-to drink for brunch gatherings. The grapefruit juice keeps it crisp and light, while the sparkling wine lends a hint of refinement. It’s a crowd-pleaser and one of my personal favorites for special occasions.
13. Jalapeño Pineapple Tequila Cooler
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 3 oz unsweetened pineapple juice
- 2 jalapeño slices
- 1 oz lime juice
- Ice
Recipe:
- Muddle the jalapeño slices in a shaker.
- Add tequila, pineapple juice, and lime juice. Shake well with ice.
- Strain into a glass filled with ice.
Calories: Around 130 calories
My Review:
Pineapple and tequila are a match made in heaven, and the jalapeño gives it just enough heat. I love sipping this drink on a tropical vacation (or pretending I’m on one). It’s a fun, refreshing way to stick to low-cal options without sacrificing flavor.
14. Watermelon Tequila Refresher
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 3 oz fresh watermelon juice (blended and strained)
- 1 oz lime juice
- Mint leaves for garnish
- Ice
Recipe:
- Strain the juice from a fresh watermelon after blending it.
- Next, you can add a mix of lime juice, watermelon juice, and tequila in a shaker. Use ice to shake.
- Transfer into a glass and add some fresh mint as a garnish.
Calories: About 110 calories
My Review:
This drink is my absolute favorite during watermelon season! The natural sweetness from the fruit means no added sugar, and it’s so hydrating. It’s the perfect drink after a long day in the sun or a workout.
15. Coconut Tequila Dream
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 3 oz coconut water (unsweetened)
- 1 oz lime juice
- Ice
Recipe:
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Mix tequila, coconut water, and lime juice. Stir well.
Calories: Around 100 calories
My Review:
Coconut water and tequila create the ultimate tropical vibe. This drink keeps me feeling hydrated and relaxed. I often choose this after a yoga session for a light, refreshing treat.
16. Blood Orange Tequila Sparkler
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 2 oz fresh blood orange juice
- Club soda
- Ice
Recipe:
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Pour in the tequila and blood orange juice.
- Top with club soda and stir gently.
Calories: About 110 calories
My Review:
Blood oranges add a gorgeous color and a slightly sweet, tangy flavor to this drink. I make this for date nights at home—it’s fancy yet simple, and it fits perfectly into my calorie-conscious lifestyle.
17. Strawberry Basil Tequila Smash
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 3-4 fresh strawberries
- 4 basil leaves
- 1 oz lime juice
- Club soda
Recipe:
- Put the basil leaves and strawberries in a shaker and muddle.
- Pour in the lime juice and tequila. Use ice to shake.
- Then use a strainer into a glass and add club soda on top.
Calories: About 130 calories
My Review:
This drink feels like summer in a glass. The basil adds an unexpected herbal twist that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries. It’s a fresh and vibrant option when I’m hosting friends for a backyard BBQ.
18. Minty Tequila Cooler
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 8-10 mint leaves
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 tsp agave syrup
- Club soda
Recipe:
- Add the agave syrup as the first step and lime juice to the muddled mint leaves.
- Shake with ice after adding the tequila.
- Pour through a strainer into a glass and add club soda on top.
Calories: About 120 calories
My Review:
Mint is my favorite herb, and this drink is so light and refreshing. It’s a great option for hot summer days or when I want to relax and unwind without overindulging.
19. Tequila Apple Spritz
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 3 oz unsweetened apple juice
- Club soda
- Cinnamon stick for garnish
Recipe:
- In a tumbler with ice, combine apple juice and tequila.
- Add club soda on top of the tumbler and mix smoothly.
- For extra taste, garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Calories: Around 120 calories
My Review:
I created this drink during the fall, and it’s now a staple. The apple and cinnamon combination feels cozy yet light enough to stick with my calorie goals. It’s great for autumn evenings or holiday gatherings.
20. Tequila Kiwi Breeze
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 1 fresh kiwi, peeled and muddled
- 1 oz lime juice
- Club soda
Recipe:
- Put the kiwi in a shaker and muddle.
- Pour in the lime juice and tequila. Use ice and shake well.
- Pour through a strainer into a glass and add club soda on top.
Calories: About 110 calories
My Review:
Kiwi is such a unique fruit for cocktails, and it pairs so well with tequila. The drink is tangy, slightly sweet, and incredibly refreshing. I make this when I want something fun and unique—it’s always a hit with friends!
The Minimalist Cocktails
When it comes to enjoying a refreshing tequila drink while keeping the calories low, sometimes simplicity is best. Here are two of my favorite minimalist cocktails that are light, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion.
Ranch Water
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 1 oz lime juice
- Top with sparkling water (Topo Chico is a favorite)
- Ice
- Lime wedge for garnish
Recipe:
- Fill a tall glass with ice.
- Add tequila and lime juice.
- Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
- Add a wedge of lime as a garnish for a cool finish.
Calories: About 100 calories
My Review:
This drink became my best friend during the early days of my weight loss journey. Ranch Water is a Texas classic that feels like a sophisticated soda, but without the sugar crash. It’s incredibly hydrating, and I love the subtle tequila flavor that blends perfectly with the sparkling water. It’s also great for sipping on a warm day when you’re trying to stay cool and light.
A Skinny Paloma
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 3 oz fresh grapefruit juice (unsweetened)
- 1 oz lime juice
- Top with club soda
- Optional: Pinch of salt or sweetener (like stevia)
Recipe:
- In a glass filled with ice, mix tequila, grapefruit juice, and lime juice.
- Top with club soda and stir gently.
- Optional: Add a pinch of salt for a slight tang or sweetener if you prefer a bit more sweetness.
Calories: Around 120 calories
My Review:
The Skinny Paloma is my go-to cocktail when I want something zesty and bubbly. Grapefruit juice gives it a bold and tangy kick, while the club soda keeps it light. It’s perfect for evenings when I want to unwind but still stay within my calorie goals. During my weight loss journey, this drink was my reward for a good workout day, and it always felt indulgent without actually being so.
My Go-To Recipe for Weight Loss Journey
While every cocktail on this list has its merits, the Cucumber Tequila Cooler stands out as my ultimate go-to during my weight loss journey. The reason? It’s light, hydrating, and packed with natural freshness from the cucumbers.
Cucumber Tequila Special
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 4 cucumber slices
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 tsp agave syrup
- Club soda
Recipe:
- To extract the juice, muddle the cucumber slices in a shaker.
- Shake with ice after adding the agave syrup, lime juice, and tequila.
- Strain into an ice-filled tall glass.
- For the last touch, pour some club soda on the top and mix it gently.
Calories: About 120 calories
My Review:
This drink was my saving grace on countless days during my weight loss journey. It’s the perfect blend of refreshing and flavorful without feeling heavy. I’d sip on this after a long walk or while meal-prepping for the week, and it never failed to lift my mood. The fresh cucumbers give it a spa-like vibe, and it’s so good, I’ve even had friends adopt it as their go-to drink, too.
FAQs on Healthy Tequila Drinks
How to drink tequila healthy?
Opt for 100% agave tequila, drink it straight or mix it with soda water and lime to avoid added sugars. Sip slowly and stay hydrated to keep your consumption balanced.
Which is the best tequila to drink on a diet?
Blanco tequila made from 100% agave is ideal as it is low in calories and contains no added sugars. Brands like Patrón Silver or Don Julio Blanco are great options.
What is a good mixer for tequila without sugar?
Soda water, lime juice, or unsweetened sparkling water make excellent sugar-free mixers. You can also add a splash of fresh grapefruit juice or cucumber for extra flavor.
How to order a skinny cocktail?
Ask for a “skinny” version with tequila, soda water, fresh lime juice, and no syrups or sugary mixers. Mention your preference for minimal or no added sweeteners to customize the drink.