• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
Side of Veggies

Side of Veggies

  • Home
  • About
  • Recipe Index
  • FAQ
  • Blog
  • Chicken Wonton Soup
    Spicy Chicken Wonton Soup

    A blast of authentic Asian flavors will make you question if you really ever need…

  • Jalapeno Ranch Dressing

    The best version of a healthy ranch dressing that will never disappoint.

  • Sweet & Spicy Sesame Chicken

    No need to order takeout with this sweet and spicy chicken recipe. You’ll be shocked…

  • Cilantro Jalapeno Hummus
    Cilantro Jalapeno Hummus

    You won’t be able to resist adding this many recipes that need spice and freshness!

  • Game Day Turkey Chili

    This Ohio State Buckeye shares a state staple that will warm you up even in…

Home / Cheat Day / Slim & Spicy Jalapeño Margarita

Slim & Spicy Jalapeño Margarita

Cheat Day, Cinco de Mayo, Cocktail, Less Sugar, Mexican, Michelle's Favorites, peppers, Southwestern, Spicy

  • Facebook
  • Pinterest

Oddly sippable and strangely addictive! These margaritas are spicy, sour, have less sugar than usual and strong enough to get you excited about another fun fiesta! They’re wildly delicious and perfect for the heat lover in you!

Prepare for another confession moment. Here goes. I am super picky and oddly critical of how margaritas should be. Unlike a vodka or prosecco/champagne drink I don’t typically, strive for tequila based drinks as my go-to. If I’m drinking a margarita I expect it to be high in alcohol and very low in sugar. Again, please drink responsibly like myself… 😉

For me, tequila is always the first stop on a Disney trip at Epcot. I skip all the outdoor margarita windows and go straight into the Mexico pavilion to the tiny tequila bar. It used to be routine to take a shot and then we move on and start the day off on a high note. You’re a complete savage if you end your day with hard liquor. Not me, I’m super classy and plan my trips around the Epcot World Showcase wisely. 

Margaritas are an odd drink for me. I love limey concoctions that can be transformed in so many different ways. The truth is, I CAN’T STAND weak, overly sweet, lame margaritas! It ruins the experience! In addition to that, I find tequila to be an odd liquor to sip. This cocktail, however, has been a work of art for me. There’s something about spicy margaritas with limited sugar and mixers that I truly enjoy. I also believe the tequila tastes better when it’s paired with more heat…as most things do.

Prime example, there’s a pretty touristy section in Orlando called Icon Park. Within this area, there is a restaurant called Uncle Julios. Their spicy margarita is insane, so much so that they literally write on their menu “two per person limit”. To me that’s like a must try marketing gimmick! So I did and I’ve been trying to recreate it ever since. And, they serve it with a whole jalapeño garnish! My ideal snack!

When I tried this recipe a few times, I sent pictures to my mom for color and dilution analysis. Her response after sending her a photo of several different margarita variations …”Did you test it?” How was it?”… Me: “Amazing! Exactly what I was looking for!” … Mom: “So what did you do with the rest of the drinks you made?”….. Ummm….Quality assurance, I tested them too! Jalapeños are considered a vegetable, right?

Warning – these are stronger! You can certainly portion them out for 3-4 people but I think this is a great recipe for two…(or maybe even one). 

I really worked on tasting and testing several variations of this recipe (you’re welcome…that was hard work!). Now I can give you a classy, simple and low calorie variation of a spicy margarita!

This recipe is only for those 21 and old if including the use of alcohol. Please drink responsibly. Refer to disclaimers on the about me section of this website.

No ratings yet

Slim & Spicy Jalapeño Margarita

Print Recipe
Oddly sippable and strangely addictive! These margaritas are spicy, sour, have less sugar than usual and strong enough to get you excited about another fun fiesta! They’re wildly delicious and perfect for the heat lover in you!
Prep Time:15 mins
Total Time:15 mins

Ingredients

  • 5-6 large limes 4-5 juiced, divided
  • 2 teaspoons stevia or sugar free granulated sweetener
  • 6 ounces tequila blanco
  • 2 ounces triple sec
  • 2-4 large jalapeños sliced, divided
  • 2 red chili peppers sliced
  • 1 (12 oz.) can lime flavored sparkling water or diet lemon-lime soda
  • 2 tablespoons chili-lime salt
  • ice

Instructions

  • In a small bowl or glass, squeeze enough limes to make about 1/2 cup of lime juice, about 4-5 large limes. Stir in sugar free sweetener and stir until completely dissolved. 
  • In a large cocktail shaker, add sliced jalapeños and chili peppers and half of a whole lime sliced. Muddle the peppers and the limes together for about 30-60 seconds. 
  • Add about a cup and a half of ice on top of the muddled peppers and limes. Pour in the sweetened lime juice, tequila and triple sec and shake for about 30 seconds. 
  • Moisten the rim of 2 cocktail glasses and roll the edge in the chili lime salt. Add ice to glasses and then pour margarita over the ice. Top with sparkling water. 
  • Garnish with more jalapeños and lime slices. 

Notes

How long does it last and where?
About an hour, max, on the drink table before your friends get really irritated that they have to remind you to not babysit your drink!
Can you freeze it?
What would be the point of that?
Substitutions?
I did use a tequila blanco with 100% pure agave. Whatever brand that you have on hand is up to you. When it comes to tequila, I prefer those that are higher on the shelves only because of the smoothness of the sip. Pick your favorite brand.
For the spice, I lean towards the safe spice of a jalapeno. I also combined red chiles in this recipe because I wanted the added heat. I don’t think it matters what chili you add, it’s all based on your spice preference. Use two types of chilis for intense, unique flavor. 
I never really thought a margarita needed anything on the rim but I know that’s completely a personal preference. I had some chili-lime salt in my pantry from a mango salad I made awhile ago. It was pretty and added a great little flavor boost.
For the sparkling water aspect of this cocktail, feel free to use any flavored sparking water you have on hand. I always have lime-flavored water for my vodka sodas but peach, strawberry or even mango would be delicious. If you really want to make this drink sweet you can use a zero-calorie lemon lime soda instead. Just make sure that it’s added at the end and not before shaking. 
Tips and Tricks
There’s no question that your muddling skills need to be at their best with this recipe. The more you press out the chili peppers at the bottom (and the more you add) the hotter the drink. If you’re not interested in heat, make sure that you scoop the veins and the seeds from the jalapeños and the chili pepper and skip the muddling. 
Avoid cheap tequila (ALWAYS!) and find something that is smooth with or without mixers. Like wine, if you don’t want to drink it alone, don’t cook with it. In this case, if you really struggle drinking a tequila straight, then it’s probably not going to be the best margarita. 
It’s best to use fresh lime juice. Avoid using the bottles of lime juice. Also, you can use a sugar-free simple syrup instead of dissolving the sweetener into the juice. This works just fine!
What to serve with it?
Although it may be spicy, I still drink it with spicy foods. That’s just me. 
All Mexican foods that may be salty and slightly fatty go perfectly with this drink as the lime will balance your meal! 
***Nutrition does not include the salt content on the rim***

Nutrition

Serving: 2drinks | Sugar: 9g | Fiber: 1g | Calories: 276kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g
Course: Happy Hour
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Cocktail, tequila
Servings: 2 people
Calories: 276kcal


Related Posts


  • Charred Tomato Salsa
  • Tableside Guacamole
    Tableside Guacamole & Baked Tortilla Chips
  • Mexican Spiced Roasted Carrots
    Mexican Spiced Roasted Carrots
  • Weeknight Lentil Tacos
  • Facebook
  • Pinterest

May 5, 2021 · Leave a Comment

Previous Post: « Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice
Next Post: Jackfruit “Carnitas” Tacos »

Primary Sidebar

Hi, I’m Michelle! I am a Florida living, food loving, recipe developer. I’m all about incorporating vegetables and lighter ingredients into your everyday favorites. (Or maybe your new favorites.) Don’t believe me? Come explore…

[More about Michelle]

Follow Me

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest

Search by Category

 

 

 

Side of Veggies

Footer

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
Simple & Spicy Bloody Mary - March is full of cele Simple & Spicy Bloody Mary - March is full of celebrations – and when the crazy weekends start to dwindle down, a recovery drink is on the menu! Spicy, “nutritious” and fun Bloody Mary’s are the absolute best!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#bloodymary #bloodymarys #vodka #tomatojuice #recovery #brunch #hotsauce #sideofveggies
Spinach Artichoke Grilled Cheese - The classic gri Spinach Artichoke Grilled Cheese - The classic grilled cheese gets a grown up twist! Your favorite party dip is now melted between toasty bread!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#spinachartichokedip #grilledcheese #tomatoes #spinach #comfortfood #artichokes #mozzarella #parmesan #sideofveggies
Spinach Artichoke Dip - The quintessential dip to Spinach Artichoke Dip - The quintessential dip to any bar, pub, tailgate or holiday party. All the favorite features of this dip come to life in this leaner version - without compromising flavor!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#spinachartichokedip #dip #kale #vegetarian #cheese #greekyogurt #dip #pita #gamedayfood #partyfood #artichokehearts #spinach #sideofveggies
Pesto & Roasted Vegetable Tomato Soup - A classic Pesto & Roasted Vegetable Tomato Soup - A classic soup for a cold day just got a makeover. Your inner child will die for this dynamic duo! Serve with Spinach Artichoke Grilled Cheese!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#tomatosoup #coldandfluseason #roastedvegetables #roastedgarlic #soup #comfortfood #grilledcheese #winterfood #sideofveggies
Parmesan Roasted Parsnips - If you’re looking to Parmesan Roasted Parsnips - If you’re looking to add a unique flair to your cozy, winter dinners – parsnips are the way to go. These are super underrated but the perfect addition to a comfort dinner during these months.Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#parsnips #rootvegetables #roasted #parmesan #sidedish #winterfoods #sideofveggies
Buffalo Chicken Dip - Every tailgate needs buffalo Buffalo Chicken Dip - Every tailgate needs buffalo chicken something! Bring this to your next tailgate party and leave the guilt at home! And no one will know there are added vegetables to this dip!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#buffalochickendip #hiddenveggies #franksbuffalosauce #hotsauce #bluecheese #ranchdressing #cheese #dip #footballfoods #tailgateseason #sideofveggies
Roasted Beet, Butternut Squash and Whipped Goat Ch Roasted Beet, Butternut Squash and Whipped Goat Cheese Dip - Don’t sleep on this cozy, fall appetizer the next time you entertain. It’s such a unique way to add some vegetables to your cheese spread!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#beets #roasted #butternutsquash #dip #goatcheese #pepitas #whippedgoatcheese #arugula #crostini #fall #sideofveggies
Light Broccoli Cheese Soup - Soup season is in ful Light Broccoli Cheese Soup - Soup season is in full swing with one of my all time favorites - Broccoli Cheese Soup! You’ll be shocked to hear that this classic is made with zero flour, butter or calorie packed creams while still being creamy, smooth and perfect for fall. Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#broccolicheddarsoup #broccolicheesesoup #veggies #soupseason #fallrecipes #broccoli #cauliflower #carrots #laughingcowcheese #cheddar #comfortfood #sideofveggies
Roasted Artichoke & White Bean Salad - This is a f Roasted Artichoke & White Bean Salad - This is a fantastic way to close out summer and hurricane season! A light, yet cozy, salad that is full of veggies and protein - perfect as a side or whole meal!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#artichoke #salad #whitebeans #healthyrecipes #tomato #parsley #sideofveggies
Game Day Turkey Chili - This Ohio State Buckeye sh Game Day Turkey Chili - This Ohio State Buckeye shares a state staple that will warm you up even in the coolest seasons. There is NOTHING that can kick off a football season better than a cold beer and hot bowl of chili!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#ohiostatefootball #buckeyes #turkeychili #gamedayfood #footballseason #chili #chilibeans #ohio #sideofveggies
Garlic Confit- Calling all garlic lovers - Become Garlic Confit- Calling all garlic lovers - Become addicted to making this recipe every weekend and using it in almost everything. This garlic confit is insane and it’s so easy to throw together!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#garlicconfit #garlic #confit #frenchcooking #slowcooked #rosemary #sideofveggies
Mediterranean Seared Zucchini - It’s that time o Mediterranean Seared Zucchini - It’s that time of year again – zucchini season! Mediterranean Seared Zucchini is an elevated way to fall in love with this simple vegetable.Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#zucchini #panseared #grilled #summerfood #vegetarianrecipes #feta #pistachio #lemon #hummus #mediterranean #olives #sideofveggies
Bacon, Berry & Blue Salad with Grilled Chicken - F Bacon, Berry & Blue Salad with Grilled Chicken - Finally – a feel good salad that doesn’t skip a beat. It’s wildly delicious. This is a sweet and savory combination of bacon, berries and blue cheese. Perfect for the 4th of July!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#fourthofjuly #summersalad #bacon #berries #bluecheese #balsamic #candiednuts #spinach #mixedgreens #grilledchicken #independenceday #bbqfood #holidaycookout #summer #sideofveggies
The Perfect Grilled Corn - Grilled corn on the cob The Perfect Grilled Corn - Grilled corn on the cob is simple, delicious and the perfect way to tee up summer! This method is the easiest and best for tons of other recipes!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#grilledcorn #cornonthecob #summer #grilling #healthyeats #bbq #sideofveggies
Grilled Skirt Steak with Corn, Tomato & Herb Salad Grilled Skirt Steak with Corn, Tomato & Herb Salad - The perfect citrus marinated skirt steak will give you all the summer vibes you need! Topped with a grilled corn and tomato herb salad, this veggie-packed steak dish will have you firing up the grill all season long.Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#steak #fathersday #grillporn #grilledcorn #cornsalad #summerrecipes #proteinpacked #cilantro #parsley #onions #sideofveggies
Turkey Pepperoni Pizza Roll Ups - This recipe sati Turkey Pepperoni Pizza Roll Ups - This recipe satisfies my constant craving for pizza without any guilt. Packed with low fat pepperonis and cheese, tons of vegetables, and even a thin, crispy and crunchy crust…you’ll be hooked in no time!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#pizzarollups #pizza #pepperoni #snacks #marinarasauce #mozzarella #airfryer #baked #veggiepacked #sideofveggies
Baked PB&J Chicken Wings - One of the most nostalg Baked PB&J Chicken Wings - One of the most nostalgic lunch box sandwiches becomes a bar food favorite. Peanut butter and strawberry jelly chicken wings could be the best combo in its own weird way. Baked and made with lighter ingredients, you’ll have to try them for yourself.Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com.I would like to dedicate this recipe to one of my favorite people, Rinky Dink @rink91 ….For so many reasons….😊😇#inspiration.#peanutbutter #peanutbutterandjelly #peanutbutterandjellywings #strawberryjelly #weirdfoodcombos #wings #baked #airfryer #barffood #sideofveggies
Tequila Lime Shrimp Tostadas - The best way to kic Tequila Lime Shrimp Tostadas - The best way to kick off the summer months and close out Mexican food May is with these light and crispy Tequila & Lime Shrimp Tostadas.Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#Tequila #shrimptostadas #Mexicanfood #tostadas #lime #crunchy #lightmeals #guacamole #cabbageslaw #jalapenos #cincodemayo #sideofveggies
Mexican Street Corn Dip- Otherwise known as the la Mexican Street Corn Dip- Otherwise known as the lazy version of “Elote”. Easy, cheesy and crowd please-y, this dip is perfect for Summer or any taco night party! You’re going to want to save this recipe for your next BBQ for sure!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#elote #mexicanstreetcorn #streetcorn #corndip #Mexican #cotija #cilantro #Mexican #grilledcorn #tortillachips #Cheese #sideofveggies
Grilled Chicken Fajitas - What’s better than a s Grilled Chicken Fajitas - What’s better than a sizzling plate of chicken fajitas? It's always so exciting to order at a restaurant. Now you don't have to go out to get this great dish. These homemade grilled fajitas have the best marinade…hands down!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#chickenfajitas #fajitas #grilled #marinade #peppersandonions #sideofveggies
Follow on Instagram
  • Homepage
  • Recipe Index
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms & Conditions

Copyright © 2023 · Thyme Theme by Restored 316