In the northeast of the United States, spring arrives in May (not March!). With the warmer weather, we open up the backyard and especially this year, it feels like we are all so ready to gather with friends and family. This has involved some pretty typical food and drink in the past – mostly involving alcohol, chips with dips, and some delicious grilled food! So we will stick with that theme while making allowances for our new dietary constraints! I have already posted my homemade guacamole recipe as well as the zingy bean dip with no salt added, gluten free tortilla chips! Today, I am showing you how to make some absolutely fabulous virgin frozen margaritas (sans salt), that the whole family can enjoy. Of course, if you are feeling the need, you can certainly add in the tequila!!

Ingredients

• 1 can frozen limeade
• Juice from 3 limes and 2 lemons
• 1/4 cup agave nectar
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• A pinch of kosher salt
• Lots of ice
• Lemon or lime flavored sparkling water like San pellegrino Limonata 
• Tequila (totally optional!!)

Method

• Blend together all ingredients except the San pellegrino with lots of ice to make a frozen mix.
• I like to do this ahead of time and keep in the freezer until I am ready to use.
• Mix in about 1/2 cup of sparkling lemon flavored water into the frozen mix and serve immediately.
• If you would like to add in alcohol, add about 5 oz of tequila to the blender while making the frozen mix.

Since we are promoting a low sodium lifestyle, I suggest you skip the salted rim. The flavors of the virgin frozen margaritas will keep you happy as is. Now nobody needs to miss out on the backyard festivities. Added bonus: no hangovers! Let’s party!!