Skinny Mezcal Margarita Recipe: light, smoky and full of flavor

If you love a classic margarita but want a lighter twist with a hint of smoke, the Skinny Mezcal Margarita is the perfect choice. With fewer calories than a traditional margarita and the unmistakable character of Del Maguey mezcal, this cocktail blends freshness, balance and a bold flavor that surprises from the very first sip. 

It’s ideal for a summer afternoon, a dinner with friends, or simply when you want a guilt-free treat.

Ingredients

For one serving (about 5 fl oz):

• 1.7 fl oz Del Maguey mezcal (the best choice is Del Maguey Vida Clásico)
  
• 1 fl oz  freshly squeezed lime juice
  
• 0.5 fl oz  sugar-free orange liqueur or light triple sec
  
• 0.3 fl oz agave syrup or natural sweetener to taste
  
• Ice cubes
  
• Salt or smoked salt for the glass rim
  
• Lime wheel for garnish

How to make a Skinny Mezcal Margarita step by step

Before you start, make sure all the ingredients are ready and within reach so the process is quick and smooth. The key to a perfect skinny mezcal margarita recipe is to keep the ingredients fresh and follow an order that preserves the balance between the smoky mezcal, the tangy lime and the light sweetness of the agave.

Prepare the glass and salt rim

Moisten the rim of a margarita or rocks glass with a lime wedge and dip it into a plate of salt or smoked salt to add extra flavor and aroma. Once rimmed, place the glass in the freezer for a few minutes so it chills and keeps the drink cold for longer.

Mix and shake the ingredients

In a shaker, combine the mezcal, lime juice, orange liqueur and agave syrup with several ice cubes. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to integrate the flavors and chill the mixture, ensuring a balanced and refreshing result.

Serve and garnish the cocktail

Strain the mixture into the chilled, salt-rimmed glass. Garnish with a lime wheel or, if you prefer, a thin cucumber slice for an extra touch of freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy the perfect balance of acidity, light sweetness and smoky notes.

Tips for a low-calorie Margarita

To cut even more calories, swap the agave syrup for a few drops of stevia or liquid sweetener, use sugar-free orange liqueur, and always squeeze fresh limes to highlight the smoky flavor of the mezcal without adding unnecessary sugar.

Another option is to top the drink with a splash of sparkling water or soda, which adds volume and bubbles without increasing the calorie count.

Creative variations of the Skinny Mezcal Margarita

Skinny Mezcal Margarita with cucumber: add a few cucumber slices to the shaker for a refreshing twist.

Skinny Spicy Mezcal Margarita: drop in a few jalapeño slices for a spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the smoky mezcal.

Fruity and tropical: replace part of the lime juice with unsweetened pineapple or passion fruit juice for a more exotic profile.