Best of Lei Chic 2009: Heading to Margaritaville

As we get set to ring in 2010, Lei Chic is taking a look back into our archives and bringing you some of the best stories we published during 2009. Enjoy and see you next year!

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Originally published May 5, 2009 for Cinco de Mayo — we recommend making another round for New Year's Eve!

Last year, Cinco de Mayo was a huge party, and Seis de Mayo was total hell. It's not just the tequila in margaritas that causes hangovers – the flavored liqueurs and sweet-and-sour mixes have tons of sugar and calories, adding to the morning-after nightmare. Plus, the drinks can easily ring up to almost $10 each.

But you can still toast to Cinco de Mayo without blowing your diet or your budget. Try this low-cal, low-carb margarita, a healthier version that also costs less to make.

So you can avoid extra pounds, and save a few pesos.

Low-Cal, Low-Carb Margarita
Makes one drink (about 115 calories)

1 packet Splenda or other low cal sweetener
2 T. lime juice
¼ tsp. orange extract
1 shot tequila
1 shot diet lemon-lime soda (like diet Sprite or diet 7Up)

Olé!