- Sweet mango and spicy jalapeño load up on antioxidants while eliminating any added sugars.
- Adjust the jalapeño to dial the spice level up or down to your taste.
- This mocktail is ideal for parties, taco nights or anytime you want a fun drink.
This No-Added-Sugar Mango-Jalapeño Margarita Mocktail is the perfect way to sip something festive without added sugar or alcohol. Each sip balances sweet, antioxidant-rich mango with a burst of fresh lime juice and a subtle chile pepper kick that keeps you coming back for more. Garnish it with a chili-lime salt rim or a slice of fresh jalapeño for extra flair, and you’ve got a mocktail that’s equal parts fun, fresh and sophisticated. Ready to see for yourself? Read on for our best tips and tricks for making it below.
Tips from the EatingWell Test Kitchen
These are the key tips we learned while developing and testing this recipe in our Test Kitchen to make sure it works, tastes great and is good for you too!
- For the best flavor and texture, choose a ripe mango that yields slightly to gentle pressure. Any variety of mango works well here.
- Control the spice level by adding the chile pepper gradually. Start with half of the chopped jalapeño, then taste and adjust before blending in more.
- A chili-lime (Tajín) rim in place of salt enhances the mango’s sweetness and adds an extra pop of flavor with every sip.
Nutrition Notes
- Mangoes are an antioxidant powerhouse, thanks to carotenoids including beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin that support eye health, skin health and immunity. Mango’s natural sweetness, along with potassium for electrolytes, make this tropical fruit a refreshing and hydrating choice that limits the need for added sugars.
- Jalapeño doesn’t just add spice—you’re getting some nutrition here too, thanks to beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin and vitamin C. The pepper’s spice comes from a compound called capsaicin that may play a role in supporting a healthy metabolism and decreasing body fat.
- Lime juice provides a source of vitamin C to support immunity, and antioxidants to protect against free radicals and inflammation. You’ll also find some electrolytes, including potassium, calcium and magnesium, for added hydration.
- Sparkling water is a zero-calorie mixer that gives this drink the satisfaction of carbonated bubbles without the added sugars from soda.
