Guilty Pleasures: Margaritas & ‘Real Housewives’

I love hating on The Real Housewives of New York. I've seen every episode. Even the reunion show. My viewing started off as an innocent diversion before spiraling quickly into a dark habit. I'd DVR the new episode and watch it fast so I could erase it before my boyfriend came over. My best friend, a reality show addict herself, advised me to get out before I got too deep. "I can handle it," I told her. And myself. But I just couldn't stop chasing that dragon. It's too much fun disapproving of the Housewives' extravagant lifestyles, marveling at the intricacy of their bitchiness. I like to play a game as I watch: who is the most spoiled? The stupidest? The relatively least-stupidest? I began wagers with myself, whether someone was going to finally bitch-slap Kelly Bensimon, or if anyone would call child services on Alex and Simon Van Kempen for endangering the lives of their children by turning their house into a construction zone. But despite my best loathing, I discovered a sensation strange for reality TV had begun to seep in. Fondness. I was starting to really root for Bethenny Frankel.

I enjoyed the way Bethenny ridiculed and criticized the other women. I liked that she was self-employed and looking for love. It was embarrassing to have to admit to myself that my addiction wasn’t only fueled solely by hate. In episode 11, Bethenny went on a blind date at Philippe and ordered a Skinnygirl Margarita, a drink that she’s (of course) trademarked and will soon be (of course) selling in stores and online. Although her date didn’t pan out, the cocktail created a buzz and has helped propel Frankel’s profile. Her margarita is tart and strong. She mentions in her (of course) instructional video that you can add a splash of lemonade, although her store-bought version will get its sweetness with agave nectar. Next up is Frankel’s own reality show about her experience planning her upcoming wedding to boyfriend Jason Hoppy. It looks like I’ll have all the excuse I need for another season of surreptitious DVR’ing and stiff cocktails.

Bethenny Frankel’s Skinnygirl™ Margarita on the Rocks
● 2 oz of clear premium tequila (count 1, 2 while you pour, no need for measuring)
● tiny splash of orange liqueur
● juice of 4 fresh lime wedges
Combine all ingredients over a glass of ice and garnish with a lime wedge. Makes one serving.

Skinny Margarita Remixed
● 1.5 oz premium tequila
● 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
● 1/2 oz Rose’s sweet lime juice
● splash orange juice
● salt for the rim
Rub lime wedge on rim of a highball glass, then dip the glass in salt. Combine tequila, lime juice, orange juice, and the sweetened lime juice in an ice-filled cocktail shaker. Shake well, pour gently into glass.