The Skinny Cantarito is your go-to cocktail when you want something bold yet balanced. With the zesty kick of fresh grapefruit, orange, and lime juices paired with high-quality tequila and sweetened naturally with agave nectar, it’s a flavor-packed drink that doesn’t weigh you down.
Topped off with a crisp grapefruit-flavored sparkling water and served over crushed ice in a clay vessel rimmed with Tajin, this version of the classic cantarito is perfect for warm weather sipping. It’s festive, fun, and customizable — from adding tamarind straws to making it a mocktail — this lightened-up classic is a toast to vibrant health and flavor.
Full Recipe:
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2 oz 100% agave blanco tequila
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1 oz fresh grapefruit juice
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1 oz fresh orange juice
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1 oz fresh lime juice
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1/2 oz agave nectar (or to taste)
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Crushed ice
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Grapefruit-flavored sparkling water (e.g. LaCroix) to top
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Tajin (or salt) for rimming
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Wedges or wheels of citrus (for garnish)
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Tamarind candy straws (optional)
Directions:
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Rim your cantarito or glass with lime juice, agave, or chamoy. Dip in Tajin to coat the edge. Fill with crushed ice and set aside.
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In a cocktail shaker filled with whole ice, combine tequila, grapefruit juice, orange juice, lime juice, and agave nectar. Shake vigorously for 30–45 seconds.
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Strain the mixture into the prepared glass over crushed ice.
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Top with grapefruit sparkling water to your preferred fizz level.
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Garnish with citrus wedges or wheels and optionally add a tamarind candy straw.
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Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing, citrusy cocktail!
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 5 minutes
Kcal: Approx. 145 kcal | Servings: 1 cocktail
History and Origin
The cantarito cocktail has deep roots in Mexico’s tequila-producing region of Jalisco. Traditionally, it is served in a small clay cup called a “cantarito,” which is believed to enhance the flavors of the drink. This unique vessel, sometimes adorned with colorful designs, contributes an earthy taste that pairs beautifully with the bright, citrusy notes of the cocktail. The cantarito itself is similar to other Mexican cocktails like the Paloma, but it distinguishes itself by incorporating both orange and grapefruit juices along with tequila, often accompanied by a salty rim.
Cantaritos are typically consumed in outdoor settings, such as parties or festive gatherings, where their refreshing nature provides a perfect complement to Mexico’s warm climate. While the original version calls for grapefruit soda, which adds sweetness and fizz, the Skinny Cantarito swaps this out for sparkling water flavored with grapefruit, keeping the drink light and minimizing sugar. This modern take is an ideal choice for those who are mindful of their calorie intake but still want a delicious and boozy beverage.
Variations and Adaptations
While the Skinny Cantarito is a modern and lighter twist, the traditional cantarito can be easily adapted to suit personal tastes or regional preferences. One common variation is the use of mezcal instead of tequila. Mezcal offers a smoky, robust flavor that gives the cocktail an entirely different character, perfect for those who appreciate deeper, more complex spirits.
Another variation involves the type of citrus juices used. Some regions in Mexico may favor more lime juice, while others opt for a stronger grapefruit or orange base. You can also experiment with the agave nectar and adjust it to taste, depending on how sweet you like your cocktails. For a truly unique experience, adding a splash of tamarind syrup can provide a tangy, exotic twist to the drink.
Non-alcoholic versions have become increasingly popular, especially in health-conscious communities. By omitting the tequila and swapping in a non-alcoholic spirit or simply leaving it out, you can create a refreshing mocktail that still captures the bright, citrusy essence of the original. If you want to maintain the effervescent quality without the alcohol, this mocktail variation is the way to go.
Nutritional Information
The Skinny Cantarito is a relatively light cocktail compared to other classic tequila-based drinks, thanks to its use of sparkling water instead of sugary sodas and its reliance on natural sweeteners like agave nectar. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional profile:
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Calories: A typical serving of Skinny Cantaritos contains about 145 calories, which is much lower than the traditional version made with grapefruit soda, which can pack in over 200 calories per serving.
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Carbohydrates: With around 15 grams of carbs, mostly from the natural sugars in the citrus juices and agave nectar, this cocktail offers a moderate amount of carbohydrates. The use of agave nectar, which has a lower glycemic index than sugar, makes it a slightly better option for those looking to manage blood sugar levels.
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Sugars: The natural sugars from the citrus fruits provide a refreshing sweetness. Agave nectar also contributes to the overall sugar content but in a more health-conscious way.
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Fats and Protein: The Skinny Cantarito is virtually fat-free and contains no protein, which is typical for a cocktail. It’s important to note that the drink isn’t intended to provide any substantial nutritional value, but it’s a better choice than sugary sodas or overly sweet cocktails.
With these numbers in mind, the Skinny Cantarito is a great option for those looking to indulge in a flavorful drink while keeping their calorie and sugar intake under control.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
The Skinny Cantarito is a versatile cocktail that can be paired with a wide range of foods, especially those with bold, vibrant flavors that complement the drink’s citrusy profile. Here are a few ideas to elevate your next gathering:
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Mexican Street Tacos: Whether you’re serving grilled fish, carne asada, or veggie tacos, the fresh, tangy notes of the Skinny Cantarito will pair wonderfully with the savory and spicy flavors of street tacos.
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Grilled Shrimp: Seafood, particularly shrimp, is an ideal match for this cocktail. Try it with a light grilled shrimp salad or shrimp ceviche for a refreshing combination.
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Guacamole and Chips: No Mexican meal is complete without guacamole. The creamy, cool texture of the guacamole pairs nicely with the zesty and effervescent notes of the Skinny Cantarito.
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Spicy Dishes: The cool, refreshing nature of this cocktail makes it a perfect balance for spicy foods like jalapeño poppers or hot wings. It can help cool down the heat while enhancing the flavors.
As for drink pairings, the Skinny Cantarito works beautifully as a standalone refreshment. However, if you’re planning to serve it alongside other beverages, consider light beers like a Mexican lager (e.g., Corona or Pacifico) or a citrusy sparkling wine for a festive atmosphere.
Tips and Tricks for Success
To make sure your Skinny Cantarito is a success, follow these expert tips:
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Use Fresh Juice: The key to a flavorful Skinny Cantarito is using fresh-squeezed citrus juice. Bottled juices often lack the bright, tangy freshness that fresh fruit provides, so squeeze your own grapefruit, orange, and lime juice for the best results.
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Perfect Your Rim: The Tajin rim adds an extra burst of flavor and texture. Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass, then dip it in Tajin (or salt) to create a beautiful and flavorful edge. Make sure the glass is filled with crushed ice to maintain the cool, refreshing feel of the drink.
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Shake Vigorously: When combining the tequila, citrus juices, and agave nectar, shake the mixture well to ensure the flavors blend evenly. This also helps chill the drink and creates a more enjoyable drinking experience.
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Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer your drinks on the sweeter side, add a little more agave nectar or a splash of orange juice to balance the tartness of the grapefruit. Taste as you go to ensure the perfect balance.
Potential Health Benefits
The Skinny Cantarito isn’t just a delicious and refreshing cocktail; it also has some potential health benefits, thanks to the ingredients used in its creation:
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Citrus Fruits: Grapefruit, orange, and lime juices are packed with vitamin C, which is essential for immune health. Vitamin C also has antioxidant properties that help protect the body from free radicals, promoting overall well-being.
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Agave Nectar: Agave nectar is a natural sweetener derived from the agave plant, which is lower on the glycemic index compared to sugar, making it a better option for people watching their blood sugar levels. It also contains trace minerals such as iron, calcium, and potassium.
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Tequila: While alcohol should always be consumed in moderation, tequila made from 100% blue agave is lower in calories and contains fewer additives compared to other spirits. Agave is also rich in compounds known as agavins, which may have potential prebiotic benefits, supporting gut health.
However, it’s important to note that the health benefits of this cocktail should be viewed as an added bonus rather than the main reason to enjoy it. The Skinny Cantarito is still an alcoholic beverage, so it’s essential to drink responsibly.
Conclusion
The Skinny Cantarito is the perfect cocktail for anyone looking to enjoy a refreshing, flavorful, and lower-calorie drink without sacrificing the vibrant, zesty taste of traditional Mexican cocktails. Its combination of fresh citrus, high-quality tequila, and sparkling water makes it an ideal choice for warm weather, social gatherings, or just a casual evening at home. Plus, with the option to customize the drink to your liking, it’s easy to make this cocktail your own. Whether you’re hosting a fiesta or simply unwinding after a long day, the Skinny Cantarito is sure to become your go-to cocktail for every occasion. Try it today and experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with a healthier twist!