Classic Low-Calorie Margarita

Unfortunately, in its travels north of the border, the lime-and-tequila classic picked up a suitcase full of high-fructose corn syrup and with it about 300 extra calories. With that addition, your pre-dinner drink can easily blow a whole meal's worth of calories.

To help you lose weight without giving up cocktails altogether, we returned this Happy Hour favorite to its simple, unadulterated former self.

Classic Margarita

Makes 1

Nutrition: 200 calories, 14 g sugar

What You'll Need

1½ oz 100% agave silver tequila
1½ oz fresh lime juice (from about a lime and half), plus extra lime for garnish
1 oz triple sec, Cointreau, or Grand Marnier
1 tsp agave syrup
Coarse salt

How to Make It

Place the tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and agave syrup in a shaker filled with ice. Cover and shake vigorously for 20 seconds. Cover a small plate with a thin layer of salt. Rub the rim of a rocks glass with the flesh side of a lime wedge, then dip into the salt and crust lightly. Serve in the glass straight up or with ice.

Mix It Up

Embellishments worth embracing:

Spicy Margarita
Add ½ teaspoon canned chipotle pepper to the shaker. Mix the salt with an equal measure of chili powder for a fiery rim.

Strawberry Margarita
Add four sliced strawberries to the shaker and use a wooden spoon to smash. Proceed with the recipe.

Drink This!

If you're not feeling in the mood for tequila, turn to one of these other low-calorie cocktails.