Does it get any more refreshing than a frozen skinny watermelon margarita on a hot summer day? This watermelon and tequila drink is sure to cool you down! You only need a few simple ingredients to make this refreshing cocktail.
Note: this recipe was originally published on August 3, 2020. It was republished with updated photos and helpful information on August 6, 2024
Now I’ll be honest, I dislike using the word “skinny” however it has a distinct meaning when it comes to ordering cocktails. A skinny cocktail generally contains less calories than the traditional version. Margaritas are typically made using both tequila and cointreau, however this “skinny” version is made without cointreau (or triple sec), meaning there is less alcohol, and therefore less calories.
Watermelon, tequila and lime pairs so well together! Tequila has a distinct flavor that balances well with the sweet summer watermelon. This frozen watermelon drink pairs well with watermelon salsa, summer corn and lentil salad and bbq cauliflower tacos!
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This refreshing frozen watermelon margarita only requires a few ingredients and it’s made without triple sec or cointreau.
- It’s a great way to use excess watermelon during the summer months.
- The frozen, icy consistency is reminiscent of snow cones and slushies!
Equipment Notes
- High powered blender - or a small magic bullet blender.
- Jigger - or a liquid measuring cup that uses ounces.
- Citrus juicer - this is necessary for the fresh limes.
Ingredient Notes
- Watermelon - make sure to get a seedless watermelon for this recipe as the seeds will not blend well. The watermelon will need to be cut into cubes and frozen for at least 4 hours ahead of making the margaritas.
- Ice - using ice will help achieve the perfect slushy consistency.
- Limes - ALWAYS use fresh lime juice! It is so much better and more flavorful than the bottled lime juice. In a pinch the bottled juice will work but make sure to taste and adjust flavors as needed.
- Tequila - use the tequila of your choice! Honestly since we are blending the drink I don’t necessarily think you need a super high quality tequila.
- Agave - this adds a touch of sweetness to the drink and is especially helpful if your watermelon is not that sweet. Tequila is made from the agave plant, so I think using agave as a sweetener is a good addition. Using agave also makes this recipe vegan (rather than using honey).
- Salt or tajin for the rim of the glass - this is totally optional but I love a salted rim for my margs! I find that the salt elevates the flavor of the watermelon. A tajin rim will be more of a zesty, spicy rim. The choice is up to you!
Substitutions and Variations
- Mezcal - swap in mezcal in place of tequila for a smokey finish.
- Vodka - if you don’t like tequila you can use vodka for a more neutral flavor.
- Strawberry - use half frozen watermelon, half frozen strawberries for a fun summertime twist!
- Mocktail - omit the alcohol. You will likely need to add in water in place of the tequila so the frozen cocktail will blend. Taste and adjust to see if you need more lime juice or agave for sweetness.
- Simple syrup - feel free to use simple syrup instead of agave. Try this quick microwave simple syrup in a pinch!
How to Make a Frozen Watermelon Margarita
Salt the rim of the glass. Rub a lime wedge around the rim and dip the rim into a plate of salt. Twist it around until the rim has a light coating. Set aside.
Add the frozen watermelon, ice, tequila, agave and lime juice to a blender.
Blend well until desired consistency is reached.
Pour the blended margarita into the rimmed glass. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Hint: Make sure to freeze your watermelon at least 4 hours ahead of time. I like to freeze it the day before I plan on making this.
Tip and Tricks
- Remember fresh ingredients are always going to be the best option. Make sure to use freshly squeezed lime juice rather than the bottled stuff. Fresh lime juice simply tastes better!
- Use excess limes to garnish the glass if desired.
- Chill the glasses in the freezer ahead of time so your frozen drink stays cold for longer.
Storing and Freezing
I recommend drinking these watermelon margs as soon as you blend them up! You can try freezing them after you blend them if you have extra, but honestly I think they are best served fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cut the watermelon into cubes and spread the cubes out on a baking sheet. Freeze for 2-4 hours until they are solid. From there you can transfer them into a tupperware or ziplock bag. The baking sheet method is recommended because it will prevent the watermelon from clumping together into one solid chunk. You could also freeze the watermelon in a single layer in a larger Tupperware or a single layer in a large ziplock bag that can lay flat in the freezer.
A regular margarita is typically made with tequila, orange liqueur and lime juice. Occasionally a sweetener may be used such as agave, honey or simple syrup. A skinny margarita has less calories than a regular margarita. This is often achieved by omitting the orange liquor (usually cointreau or triple sec) or the sweetener. This frozen watermelon margarita is considered “skinny” because there is no orange liquor in the drink.
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Frozen Skinny Watermelon Margarita
Equipment
- High powered blender
Ingredients
- 1 cup frozen watermelon
- ½ cup ice
- 2 oz tequila
- 1 oz lime juice freshly squeezed
- ½ oz agave (optional)
For the Rim:
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 Lime wedge
Instructions
- Rub the lime wedge over the rim of the glass you will be using. Place the salt in shallow dish. Turn the glass upside down and gently dip it into the salt. Move it around to cover the rim of the glass.
- Add the frozen watermelon, ice, tequila, lime juice and agave to a blender.
- Blend well until smooth.
- Pour into the salted glass and enjoy!
Notes
- Depending on how sweet your watermelon is you may want to omit the agave which adds sweetness.
- The watermelon will need 2-4 hours to freeze. I like to freeze it the night before I plan on making these.
- You can swap in mezcal in place of tequila for a smokey finish.
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Cathy says
Delicious and refreshing!!! 5 star drink for hot summer days!!
Emily Toshiko says
Thanks!! It's one of my favorites!