Looking for healthier alternatives for your happy hour drinks? Check out our guide to low-calorie cocktails that are perfect for sipping smart. Enjoy your happy hour without compromising on health!
It’s no secret that alcohol can be unhealthy. But that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the fun. With a few simple swaps, you can make your happy hour drinks healthier and lower in calories. We’ve compiled a list of low-calorie cocktails for a healthier happy hour. Read on to learn about sipping smart and how to make delicious, guilt-free drinks.
The Basics of Sipping Smart: Low-Calorie Cocktails
When it comes to sipping smart and making healthier happy hour drinks, there are a few basic tips to keep in mind. First, choose lower-calorie alcohols such as light beer, vodka, and white wine. These drinks are lower in calories than their full-bodied counterparts.
Second, opt for low-calorie mixers. Instead of high-sugar sodas and juices, use sparkling water, club soda, or low-calorie tonic water. You can also use unsweetened teas, diet-friendly juices, and other low-calorie mixers.
Third, use fewer mixers. Instead of a two-to-one ratio of alcohol to mixer, opt for one-to-one or even one-to-two. This will reduce the amount of calories in your drink and make it easier to sip smart.
Finally, add fresh fruit or herbs for natural sweetness and flavor. This will also help reduce the amount of calories in your drink while adding a delicious flavor.
Low-Calorie Cocktail Recipes for Sipping Smart
Now that you know the basics of sipping smart, it’s time to get creative. Here are some delicious and low-calorie cocktail recipes for a healthier happy hour.
The Skinny Margarita
Ingredients:
1.5 ounces tequila
1 ounce lime juice
1/2 ounce simple syrup
Dash of orange juice
Instructions:
1. Combine tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice.
2. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds.
3. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top with a dash of orange juice.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge.
The Low-Calorie Cosmopolitan
Ingredients:
1.5 ounces vodka
1 ounce cranberry juice
1/2 ounce lime juice
1/2 ounce simple syrup
Instructions:
1. Combine vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice.
2. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds.
3. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge.
The Sparkling Paloma
Ingredients:
1.5 ounces tequila
1 ounce lime juice
1/2 ounce simple syrup
Dash of grapefruit juice
Sparkling water
Instructions:
1. Combine tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice.
2. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds.
3. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top with a dash of grapefruit juice and sparkling water.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge.
FAQs About Sipping Smart: Low-Calorie Cocktails
Are low-calorie cocktails healthy?
Yes, low-calorie cocktails can be a healthy option when sipping smart. By choosing lower-calorie alcohols and mixers, and using fewer mixers, you can enjoy your happy hour drinks without compromising on health.
What are some low-calorie mixers?
Low-calorie mixers include sparkling water, club soda, tonic water, unsweetened teas, and diet-friendly juices.
Can I add fresh fruit or herbs to my low-calorie cocktails?
Yes, adding fresh fruit or herbs such as mint or basil can add natural sweetness and flavor to your drinks while reducing the amount of calories.
Conclusion
Sipping smart doesn’t have to mean missing out on all the fun. By making a few simple swaps, you can enjoy delicious low-calorie cocktails for a healthier happy hour. Choose lower-calorie alcohols, opt for low-calorie mixers, use fewer mixers, and add fresh fruit or herbs for natural sweetness and flavor. With these tips, you can enjoy your happy hour without compromising on health.
