Happy Hour can be a great way to unwind after a long day, catch up with friends, or just enjoy a delicious drink. For those on a low carb or keto diet, it can be challenging to find alcoholic beverages that fits within their dietary restrictions while still offering a fun and flavorful experience.
Fortunately, with tequila as the star of the show, you can create a variety of low carb cocktails that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Get ready to find some alcoholic drinks that will keep you on track!
If you’re following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, you may be looking for ways to enjoy a cocktail without derailing your progress. Luckily, there are several low-carb tequila drinks that you can enjoy while still sticking to your diet. Most of these are even keto cocktails. Low carb tequila drinks are loved by many for a few reasons:
- Low-carb option: Tequila is a distilled spirit, which means that it has zero carbs. This makes it a great choice for anyone following a low-carb diet.
- Versatile: Tequila can be used in a variety of cocktails, which means that there are plenty of options for low-carb drinkers to choose from.
- Tasty: Tequila has a unique flavor that’s loved by many. Whether it’s sipped on its own or mixed into a cocktail, tequila is a great choice for anyone who loves bold, complex flavors.
If you’re looking to make low carb tequila drinks at home, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Choose the right mixers: Many traditional mixers used in tequila cocktails, such as sweetened fruit juices or soda, are high in sugar and carbs. Look for unsweetened alternatives, such as fresh-squeezed citrus juices, sparkling water, or sugar-free syrups.
- Be mindful of garnishes: Many garnishes, such as sugared rims or fruit wedges, can add carbs to your drink. Look for low-carb options, such as a salt rim or a sprig of fresh herbs.
- Use quality ingredients: Since many low-carb tequila drinks rely on a few simple ingredients, it’s important to use high-quality ones to ensure that your drink tastes great. Look for fresh-squeezed juices and top-shelf tequila for the best results.
- Experiment with flavors: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations to find your perfect drink. Try adding in herbs like mint or basil, or using different types of citrus fruits to find the perfect balance of flavors.
- Water it down: You can water the down the drink by adding some tonic water or soda water to taste.
Here are a few low carb tequila drink recipes that will surely become your favorite cocktails:
Tequila Sunrise
The Tequila Sunrise is a classic cocktail that’s been around for decades. It’s a refreshing and fruity drink that’s perfect for a warm day. Here’s how to make a low-carb version:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz. tequila
- 4 oz. unsweetened orange juice
- 1 oz. lime juice
- 1 tsp. sugar-free grenadine (or orange liqueur)
- Ice
Instructions:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the tequila, orange juice, lime juice, and grenadine to the shaker.
- Shake well until everything is combined.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
Traditionally made with orange juice and grenadine syrup, a standard 8 oz serving of tequila sunrise contains around 20-25 grams of carbs. However, you can make a low-carb version by substituting sugar-free orange-flavored water enhancer and sugar-free grenadine syrup, which can reduce the carb count to just a few grams.
Low Carb Classic Margarita – AKA Skinny Margarita
The Margarita is another classic tequila cocktail that’s a favorite among many. Unfortunately, most Margaritas are loaded with sugar and carbs. Here’s a low-carb version that’s just as delicious:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz. tequila
- 1 oz. lime juice
- 1 oz. sugar-free sweetener
- Salt (optional)
- Ice
Instructions:
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Add the tequila, lime juice, and sweetener to the shaker.
- Shake well until everything is combined.
- Rim a glass with salt (optional).
- Strain the mixture into the glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
- Paloma
A standard margarita made with sweetened lime juice and triple sec can contain up to 30 grams of carbs per serving. However, a low-carb margarita made with fresh lime juice, sugar-free triple sec or orange-flavored water enhancer, and a low-carb sweetener like stevia or erythritol can contain less than 5 grams of carbs per serving.
The Paloma
The Paloma is a refreshing tequila cocktail that’s perfect for a summer day. It’s typically made with grapefruit soda, which is high in sugar. Here’s a low-carb version that’s just as tasty:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz. tequila
- 1 oz. lime juice
- 4 oz. grapefruit sparkling water (unsweetened)
- Ice
- Salt (optional)
Instructions:
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Add the tequila and lime juice to the shaker.
- Shake well until everything is combined.
- Rim a glass with salt (optional).
- Strain the mixture into the glass filled with ice.
- Top with grapefruit sparkling water.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
A paloma is a tequila cocktail made with grapefruit soda or juice, which can be high in carbs. However, you can make a low-carb version by using sugar-free grapefruit-flavored water enhancer and soda water, which can reduce the carb count to just a few grams.
Spicy Margarita
For those who want to add a bit of heat to their cocktail, the Spicy Margarita is the perfect choice. With the addition of jalapeno peppers and fresh lime juice, this drink packs a punch. Here are the ingredients you will need:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz. tequila (or agave tequila)
- 1 oz. freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 oz. agave nectar or sugar-free sweetener
- 1 small jalapeno pepper
- Sea Salt (optional)
Instructions:
- Cut off the stem of the jalapeno and remove the seeds.
- Muddle the jalapeno in the bottom of a shaker.
- Add the tequila, lime juice, agave nectar or sweetener, and ice to the shaker.
- Shake well and strain the cocktail into a glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a wedge of lime and salt (optional).
Tequila Mojito
Mojitos are usually made with rum, but you can create a low carb version with tequila. They are a refreshing tequila drink Here’s a simple recipe for a Tequila Mojito that’s perfect for any occasion:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz sugar-free simple syrup
- 5-6 fresh mint leaves
- Club soda or sparkling water
- Ice
- Lime wedges and mint sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the mint leaves with the lime juice and sugar-free simple syrup until the leaves are fragrant and slightly crushed.
- Add the tequila and a handful of ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
- Fill a glass with ice and strain the tequila mixture over it.
- Top with club soda or sparkling water and stir gently.
- Garnish with a lime wedge and a sprig of fresh mint.
Notes on Mojitos:
- To make the sugar-free simple syrup, combine equal parts water and granulated erythritol or other sugar-free sweetener in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sweetener dissolves. Allow to cool before using.
- You can adjust the sweetness and tartness of the drink by adding more or less sugar-free simple syrup or lime juice.
- For a spicier kick, add a slice of jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper when muddling the mint leaves.
- This recipe can easily be scaled up to make a pitcher for a larger crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you’d like to make.
Enjoy this refreshing and low-carb twist on a classic mojito!
FAQ About Low Carb Tequila Drinks
What makes tequila a good low-carb option for cocktails?
Silver Tequila is a good low-carb option for keto tequila cocktails because it is a distilled spirit made from the blue agave plant, which contains no carbohydrates or added sugar. This means that pure tequila has no carbs, sugar, or fat, making it a suitable option for people following a low-carb diet.
Additionally, tequila has a unique flavor profile that can enhance the taste of many cocktails. It pairs well with citrus juices and other low-carb mixers, making it a versatile base for a variety of low-carb cocktails.
It’s worth noting that while tequila itself is low-carb, many traditional tequila cocktails contain high-carb mixers, such as fruit juices or sugary syrups. To keep your tequila drink low-carb, it’s important to choose mixers carefully and opt for unsweetened or low-carb options, such as fresh-squeezed citrus juice, sugar-free syrups, or sparkling water.
Overall, tequila’s lack of carbs and versatility make it a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a low-carb cocktail without sacrificing flavor or quality.
What are some common mixers for low-carb tequila drinks?
There are many low-carb mixers that pair well with tequila and can be used to make delicious low-carb cocktails. Here are some common mixers for low-carb tequila drinks:
- Citrus juices: Lime, lemon juice, and grapefruit juices are low in carbs and add a refreshing tartness to tequila cocktails.
- Sugar-free syrups: There are many sugar-free syrups available in flavors like vanilla, caramel, and hazelnut that can be used to add sweetness to your tequila cocktail without adding carbs.
- Fresh herbs: Herbs like mint, basil, and thyme can add a fresh and herbaceous flavor to tequila drinks.
- Spices: Cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and chili powder can add a warm and spicy kick to tequila cocktails.
- Bitters: Bitters like orange or grapefruit can add a complex and slightly bitter flavor to tequila cocktails.
- Sparkling water: Sparkling water adds a refreshing effervescence to tequila drinks without adding any carbs.
- Unsweetened tea: Teas like hibiscus or green tea can add a subtle flavor to tequila cocktails without adding any sugar.
When choosing mixers for your low-carb tequila drinks, it’s important to check the nutrition information to ensure that they are low in carbs and sugar. Opt for fresh ingredients whenever possible and avoid pre-made mixers or syrups that may contain added sugars or artificial sweeteners.
Are there any low-carb alternatives to sugary syrups or mixers?
Yes, there are many low-carb alternatives to sugary syrups or mixers that can be used to make delicious tequila drinks. Here are some examples:
- Stevia or Monk fruit sweetener: These natural sweeteners have zero carbs and calories and can be used to sweeten cocktails without affecting blood sugar levels.
- Coconut water or coconut milk: These natural ingredients add a sweet and tropical flavor to cocktails and are low in carbs and high in electrolytes.
- Unsweetened almond milk or cashew milk: These dairy-free milk alternatives add a creamy texture to cocktails and are low in carbs and high in healthy fats.
- Fresh herbs and spices: Fresh herbs like mint or rosemary, and spices like ginger or cinnamon, can add a unique flavor to cocktails without adding any carbs.
- Club soda or sparkling water: These carbonated beverages add a refreshing fizz to cocktails and are free of carbs and calories.
- Fresh fruit and berries: Fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries can add natural sweetness to cocktails without adding too many carbs.
- Citrus zest or peel: The peel or zest of citrus fruits like lemon or lime can add a bright and fresh flavor to cocktails without adding any carbs.
When choosing low-carb alternatives to sugary syrups or mixers, it’s important to be mindful of the carbohydrate content of the ingredients. Always check the nutrition information and choose fresh, whole-food ingredients whenever possible.
What are some low-carb garnishes I can use for my tequila drink?
Garnishes can add a visual and flavorful element to tequila drinks. Here are some low-carb garnishes you can use for your tequila drink:
- Citrus wedges or twists: A wedge or twist of lemon, lime, or grapefruit can add a burst of fresh flavor to your tequila drink.
- Fresh herbs: A sprig of fresh mint, rosemary, or thyme can add a fragrant and herbaceous element to your tequila drink.
- Cucumber slices: Thinly sliced cucumber adds a refreshing and crisp texture to tequila drinks.
- Jalapeño or chili pepper: A slice of jalapeño or chili pepper can add a spicy kick to your tequila drink.
- Olives: A couple of olives on a toothpick can add a salty and savory flavor to your tequila drink.
- A small piece of dark chocolate: A small piece of dark chocolate can add a sweet and decadent flavor to your tequila drink.
- Salt rim: A salt rim on the edge of your glass can enhance the flavor of your tequila drink and is a classic garnish for a margarita.
When choosing low-carb garnishes, it’s important to consider the carbohydrate content of the ingredient. Stick to fresh, whole-food ingredients and avoid sugary or high-carb garnishes like candied fruits or sweetened syrups.
These low-carb tequila drinks are easy to make and perfect for anyone on a low-carb diet. They’re refreshing, delicious, and won’t throw you off track. Give them a try and let us know which one is your favorite!
