18 Best Lowest Calorie Cocktails
If you've ever found yourself torn between a delicious cocktail and keeping an eye on your health, you're not alone. Cocktails are seen as an indulgent, unhealthy, and filled with empty calories.
Which for anyone looking to lose weight, make gains or stay fit and healthy. Means cocktails are a big no no. But you shouldn’t give up on the things you love just for the sake of your diet goals. You should find a way to keep fit AND enjoy a drink. Which you can with the lowest calorie cocktails.
In recent years, there's been a surge in interest in healthier cocktail options, and we're here to guide you through the flavorful world of low-calorie cocktails. Let's embark on a guilt-free and enjoyable happy hour experience!
The Cocktails
Why Low-Calorie Cocktails
Picture this: You're at the bar, and instead of feeling the pang of guilt with each sip, you're relishing a cocktail that's as light on calories as it is on your conscience. The appeal of low-calorie cocktails lies not just in the quest for a healthier lifestyle but also in the joy of finding a balance between indulgence and well-being.
Now here’s the thing. Can you lose weight and drink cocktails? Yes. Can you make significant fitness goals whilst enjoying a cocktail from time to time? Yes. Especially if its one of the lowest calorie cocktails. But will you reach your goals faster not drinking cocktails or by cutting out the alcohol entirely? yes.
So if you’re really concerned with keeping the calories low, I’d just cut out alcohol entirely. That being said I’m all about sustainable goals. If being fit means that you have to make a load of sacrifices in your life, then is it worth it?
So if you are concerned, you can still drink. Just be more mindful about what you drink.
To demonstrate this, I really wanted a picture of some fit gym folk drinking cocktails. But I’m stuck with stock images, so let’s work with what we’ve got…
Look at that girls figure above, see how athletic she is? Look at those abs! yet here she is smiling as she takes a sip of what you think is water. No, little do you know but that’s a skinny margarita in that bottle. Or how about this fella…
Would you look at those abs, blooming heck! What is he, 8-9% body fat? Little do you know that mid workout he’s not drinking a bottle of water, that right, that’s a pre batched Paloma he’s enjoying.
… Okay, that’s probably a little far. My point is it’s about little changes. Not giving up your indulgences altogether. It’s something I’ve spoke about more here when I wrote about how you can drink and live a healthy life style.
What Makes a Cocktail Low in Calories?
So, what exactly makes a cocktail low in calories? How do you achieve the title of lowest calorie cocktail? It's a beautiful blend of mindful ingredient choices and portion control. By opting for low-calorie base spirits like vodka or gin, you're already off to a great start.
What people generally focus on is the unhealthy aspect of alcohol and I will not tell you alcohol is healthy. But what I will say is certain choices such as Tequila which is low cal and packs a few benefits, and red wine which can actually be good for your heart and is high in natural resveratrol, are better choices then others.
Crafting a Low-Calorie Symphony
But here's the secret sauce – or should I say, secret shake? It's about balancing flavor without compromising on health. Fresh herbs, fruits, and spices are your best friends here. Think of it as creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate without weighing you down. Not only is it great for your mental health, but you can get some benefits of the back of it.
I call these functional cocktails. Cocktails that have more health benefits then others and can do more good then harm to both your and the planet.
Essential Tools and Ingredients
The A, B, Cs of Low-Calorie Mixology
Let's dive into the essential tools and ingredients that will redefine your cocktail game.
A. Low-Calorie Base Spirits
Ever tried a vodka soda? How about a gin and tonic with a twist of lime? These classics are not only refreshing but also keep the calorie count on the down-low. We’ll speak about this more in the drinks section. But it’s the spirits that can really do damage, so stick to your low calorie choices.
B. Mixers and Alternatives
Say goodbye to sugary syrups and hello to a world of low-calorie mixers. Experiment with coconut water, sparkling water, and other alternatives that add fizz without the calorie buzz. Something people don’t often realize is when you go out drinking, it’s the mixers that get you. Most hangovers are caused not by the booze, but the sugary mixers.
Put it this way, if I told you I’ve not lost any weight this week yet I’ve been relatively healthy other then that one night I was at home, super thirsty, and decided to smash back 10 glasses of coke. You’d probably be quick to identify my problem. So keep an eye out on your choice of mixers.
C. Fresh Flavors, Fewer Calories
Get creative with your garnishes! Fresh herbs, fruits, and spices not only amp up the flavor but also bring that Instagram-worthy appeal. My personal favorite? Adding a sprig of mint to a sparkling cucumber mint lemonade – it's a game-changer.
What is the Healthiest Cocktail to Have?
The healthiest cocktail you can have is the Coconut Vodka Cooler.
That’s from this list anyway. Notice that’s not the lowest calorie cocktail. When we’re talking health there is a big different. The cocktail with the fewest calories would be the rum and diet coke. But that’s not aexactly healthy. The big issue with alcohol is it’s dehydrating. With the coconut vodka cooler, we’re mixing vodka, which is a clean base, with coconut water which is extremely hydrating.
In-fact, some studies will say coconut water is better then regular water. Not that I saved any to prove that theory. So take that with a pinch of salt. However I did find this article about the health benefits of coconut water.
Which Alcoholic Drink Has the Fewest Calories?
For those who are mindful of their calorie intake, choosing an alcoholic beverage with the fewest calories is a smart strategy. Let's delve into some of the options that allow you to enjoy a drink while keeping the calorie count in check.
Lowest Calorie Spirits: Vodka, Gin, and Tequila
When it comes to alcoholic drinks with the least calories, clear spirits take center stage. Vodka, gin, and tequila are the MVPs of low-calorie options. These spirits are not only lighter in caloric content but also offer a clean canvas for crafting a variety of flavorful and health-conscious cocktails.
Vodka: The Virtuous Spirit
Vodka takes the lead as one of the lowest-calorie spirits, containing around 97 calories per 1.5-ounce shot. Its neutrality allows for versatile mixing, making it a favorite for those who want to maintain a lower calorie count in their drinks. If that wasn’t enough the flavor is clean, meaning you can do whatever you want with it.
Gin: Light and Botanical
Gin, infused with botanicals, comes in close second. With approximately 110 calories per 1.5-ounce serving, it adds a layer of complexity to cocktails without piling on excess calories.
Tequila: Agave Elegance
Tequila, made from the agave plant, is not only distinctive in flavor but also relatively low in calories, boasting around 96 calories per 1.5-ounce shot. Opt for 100% agave tequila for a smoother and more nuanced experience.
It also boast the highest natural benefits of all the spirits. Check out this article on the surprising health benefits of Tequila.
Low-Calorie Mixers
Pairing your chosen spirit with low-calorie mixers further contributes to a drink that won't weigh you down. Taking a low calorie spirit base like vodka, then mixing it with something high in sugar and calories such as orange juice just cancels each other out. Mixers will usually make up roughly 3 quarters of your drink. So aim for something low calorie.
Consider soda water, sparkling water, or even a splash of fresh citrus juice for a burst of flavor without the extra calories.
Sparkling Elegance: Vodka Soda with a Twist
Take the classic Vodka Soda to the next level by adding a twist of citrus. With the effervescence of soda water and the zing of fresh lime or lemon, this concoction is a light and refreshing option, coming in at a low calorie count.
The citrus boasts its own health benefits and the overall drink will be less then 100 calories depending on how you make it. The same goes for Tequila except with Tequila you get the low calorie count and the health benefits of tequila.
Mindful Measuring Matters
Regardless of your spirit choice, practicing mindful measuring ensures you're in control of your calorie intake. Stick to recommended serving sizes, and watch as your favorite low-calorie cocktail becomes a guilt-free pleasure.
In the quest for the least-calorie alcoholic drink, clear spirits paired with sensible mixers and mindful measuring offer a delightful solution. So, whether you're reaching for a crisp vodka soda or savoring the botanical notes of a gin and tonic, you can confidently enjoy your drink without the worry of excessive calories. Cheers to making informed choices for a healthier happy hour!
Mindful Drinking
Practising mindful drinking goes hand in hand with this. Here’s an article about what mindful drinking is with tips on how to achieve it. Because it’s not just about drinking what you want then doing a little bit of yoga, it’s about being mindful of WHAT you’re drinking.
What is a Skinny Cocktail?
A "skinny" cocktail typically refers to a low-calorie version of a traditional cocktail. These beverages are crafted with the goal of reducing the overall calorie content by using lighter or sugar-free ingredients while maintaining the flavor and enjoyment of the original drink. The term "skinny" has become popular in the context of health-conscious and mindful drinking, appealing to individuals who want to indulge in a cocktail without compromising their wellness goals.
Here are a few key characteristics of skinny cocktails:
Reduced Calorie Content: Skinny cocktails often achieve lower calorie counts by using lower-calorie base spirits, cutting down on sugary mixers, or incorporating sugar alternatives.
Lighter Spirits: Clear spirits like vodka, gin, and tequila are popular choices for skinny cocktails. These spirits tend to have fewer calories compared to darker options like whiskey or rum. An example of this would be a rum and coke vs a skinny rum and coke. The difference being the skinny rum and coke will sub the dark rum for the lower calorie white rum.
Sugar-Free or Low-Sugar Mixers: Skinny cocktails often replace traditional mixers with sugar-free or low-sugar alternatives. This includes using sparkling water, diet sodas, slimline tonic or fresh fruit juices in moderation.
Fresh Ingredients: Skinny cocktails often prioritize the use of fresh herbs, fruits, and natural flavors to enhance taste without relying on excess sugars or syrups.
Mindful Measuring: Maintaining portion control is a key aspect of skinny cocktails. Bartenders and home mixologists measure ingredients carefully to control calorie intake while still providing a satisfying drinking experience.
Common examples of skinny cocktails include the Skinny Margarita, which uses fresh lime juice and agave syrup in moderation, and the Vodka Soda with a Twist, combining vodka with calorie-free soda water and a splash of citrus for flavor.
Ultimately, the goal of a skinny cocktail is to offer a lighter, healthier alternative without compromising on taste. It's a way for individuals to enjoy their favorite mixed drinks while being mindful of their nutritional choices.
So lowest calorie cocktails and skinny cocktails are basically two phrases that mean the same thing.
Skinny Cocktails Under 100 Calories
The best under 100 calorie cocktails are;
White rum and diet coke
Vodka soda lime
Tequila soda lime
Gin and slimline tonic
Now there is an argument that they are not cocktails. As a professional drinks expert and drinks consultant to the stars I can hereby put that argument to rest. A cocktail must consist of 3 ingredients. As soon as you add a citrus squeeze to any spirit mixer - it becomes a cocktail.
Calories in classic cocktails
Let’s compare those less then 100 calorie cocktails with some classic cocktails. Imagine on a night out you’re having a few drinks and just work out how much these really add up;
Aperol spritz calories: 153
Negroni calories: 195
Long Island Iced Tea calories: 218
White Russian Calories: 280
Pina Colada Calories: 245
Strawberry Daiquiri Calories: 290
Cosmopolitan Calories: 219
Pornstar Martini Calories: 224
Espresso Martini Calories: 230
Of course that massively depends on how the person making the cocktail makes it. Those numbers could easily be double that. So just be mindful of that.
Tips for Crafting Your Own Low-Calorie Creations
A. Mastering Portion Control
Creating low-calorie cocktails is an art, and mastering portion control is the brushstroke that brings it to life. Measure your ingredients mindfully – it's the secret to keeping those calories in check.
B. Swapping Calories for Flavor
Don't be afraid to make ingredient substitutions. Swap out high-calorie components for healthier alternatives without compromising on taste. It's about making choices that are kind to your taste buds and your waistline.
C. Sweetness from Nature
Who needs added sugars when nature provides such sweet alternatives? Experiment with fruits like berries, citrus, and watermelon to naturally sweeten your cocktails without the extra calories.
Navigating Happy Hour Menus
Informed Choices for a Healthier Happy Hour
Next time you're at the bar, arm yourself with knowledge. Make informed choices when scanning the menu – opt for the low-calorie options and savor your drink without the worry. I touched on this a little above. The calories greatly depend on how the drink is made.
One bartenders Espresso Martini may be 210 calories whilst another bartender in the same bar could make one that’s 350 calories. Both tasting basically the same.
A Skilled Request: Modifications for Lower Calories
Don't be shy about requesting modifications to existing cocktails. Bartenders are often happy to accommodate, and you'll end up with a drink that suits both your taste buds and your health goals. No what’s high in calories and use that to your advantage.
For example, you know the sugary cocktails will be higher in calories so ask for your cocktail dry. That way the bartender will use less sugar.
Ask to sub dark spirits like whisky and dark rum for light spirits.
The Rise of Health-Conscious Happy Hours
It's not just a trend; it's a movement. More and more establishments are recognizing the demand for low-calorie cocktails, offering a range of healthier options to cater to a diverse clientele.
Mocktail Alternatives
A Sober Sip: Non-Alcoholic Delights with Minimal Calories
One way to dramatically lower the calories is by drinking mocktails instead.
No alcohol, no worries. But word of warning. Usually in bars, non alcoholic cocktails can be more sugary then regular drinks, in turn making them higher calories.
You might think asking for a Virgin mojito will mean you cut out the calories on the rum. But most bars will replace that rum with something like sugar syrup, making for a higher calorie choice.
So be mindful of this when ordering out.
Now if you want the low calories, the health, and the fitness. But you also want that burn that can only be achieved with a shot of hard liquor. Well have I got just the thing for you!
Check out these 5 health shots. There non alcoholic health packed shots you can make at home meant to be shot back and enjoyed purely for the health benefits and the buzz of shotting pure ginger juice.
Top 18 Lowest Calorie Cocktails to Try
Now, let's get to the fun part – mixing up some of the tastiest low-calorie cocktails out there. These aren't just drinks; they're an invitation to a guilt-free happy hour. Here are 18 to kick-start your journey. Here are the lowest calorie cocktails you can make and order at a bar.
#1 Skinny Margarita
Calories: 155
Because who says margaritas can't be light and zesty?
Making a Skinny Margarita involves crafting a lighter version of the classic cocktail by reducing the calorie content, particularly in terms of sugars. Here's a simple recipe for a Skinny Margarita:
Ingredients:
2 ounces silver tequila
1/2 ounce Cointreau
1 ounce fresh lime juice
Ice cubes
Lime wedge for garnish
Salt (optional, for rimming the glass)
Instructions:
Prepare the Glass. If desired, rim the glass with salt. To do this, moisten the rim of the glass with a lime wedge and dip it into salt spread on a plate.
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes and add all the ingredients
Shake the ingredients vigorously in the shaker. This chills the mixture and allows the flavors to blend.
Strain the mixture into the prepared glass over fresh ice which would be “on the rocks”, or in a coupe which would be “straight up”.
Garnish the Skinny Margarita with a lime wedge. Serve it immediately while it's cold and refreshing.
Enjoy your Skinny Margarita! This version reduces the calorie content compared to a traditional margarita by using fresh lime juice and no agave syrup. It's a flavorful and guilt-free option for those looking to indulge in a classic cocktail with a lighter twist.
#2 Gin and Tonic with a Twist of Lime
Calories: 77
Classic, crisp, and low-cal – a go-to for any occasion. Lean more about gin here.
Ingredients:
1 ounce gin
4 ounces slimline tonic
1 lime wedge
Instructions:
Pour both ingredients in a tall glass filled with ice.
Garnish by squeezing in a lime wedge then dropping it in your glass
#3 Coconut Water Vodka Cooler
Calories: 118
Tropical vibes with a calorie-conscious twist. Creating a Coconut Water Vodka Cooler is a refreshing way to enjoy a tropical-inspired cocktail with a lighter touch. Not only do you get a low-calorie cocktail, but you get something healthy thanks to the coconut water. Here's a simple recipe for this delightful drink:
Ingredients:
2 ounces vodka
4 ounces coconut water (unsweetened)
1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
Ice cubes
Lime wedge or coconut slice for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes and add your liquid ingredients.
Shake the ingredients vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. This not only chills the mixture but also ensures the flavors are well-blended.
Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice. This step helps keep the drink cool and refreshing.
Garnish your Coconut Water Vodka Cooler with a lime wedge or a slice of coconut for an extra touch of tropical flair.
This cocktail offers a crisp and hydrating experience with the combination of coconut water, vodka, and a hint of lime. It's perfect for a sunny day or whenever you're in the mood for a lighter, tropical drink. Cheers!
#4 Tequila and Soda with Fresh Jalapeños
Calories: 104
Spicy, sassy, and surprisingly low-cal. This is a lower calorie version of my padron pepper margarita.
Ingredients:
2 ounces tequila
4 ounces soda water
1 Jalapeno sliced
1 ounce fresh lime juice
Instructions:
Muddle your jalapeno into the bottom of your glass.
Pour over the lime juice and tequila. Stir to combine.
Fill with ice, add your soda and stir once more.
Garnish with jalapeno slices and lime.
#5 Sparkling Cucumber Mint Lemonade
Calories: 162
A spa day for your taste buds – refreshing and light. Creating a Sparkling Cucumber Mint Lemonade is a delightful way to enjoy a refreshing and effervescent beverage. Here's a simple recipe for this invigorating drink. This serves 6 people
Ingredients:
1 cucumber, peeled and sliced
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
1 cup fresh lemon juice (approximately 4–6 lemons)
1/2 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)
2 cups sparkling water
Ice cubes
Lemon slices and cucumber rounds for garnish (optional)
8 ounces of vodka per glass
Instructions:
Prepare Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine equal parts water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Allow the simple syrup to cool.
In a blender, combine the peeled and sliced cucumber with fresh mint leaves. Blend until smooth. You can add a splash of water to facilitate blending.
Strain the cucumber-mint blend through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to extract the liquid. Discard the solids, keeping the cucumber-mint juice.
In a pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice and the simple syrup. Adjust the amount of simple syrup to achieve your desired level of sweetness.
Pour the strained cucumber-mint juice into the pitcher with the lemon juice and simple syrup. Stir the mixture to combine the flavors.
Just before serving, add 2 cups of sparkling water to the pitcher along with the vodka. Stir gently to incorporate the bubbles.
Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour over the Sparkling Cucumber Mint Lemonade over the ice.
Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh mint, lemon slices, and cucumber rounds for an extra touch of visual appeal.
This cocktail offers a perfect balance of crispness, citrusy goodness, and the invigorating flavors of cucumber and mint. It's a fantastic choice for a warm day or as a refreshing non-alcoholic option at any time. Cheers!
#6 Rum and Diet Cola
Calories: 97
A timeless duo with a calorie-conscious edge.
Ingredients:
1.5 ounce white rum
8 ounces diet cola
Instructions:
Combine both ingredients in a tall glass over ice.
Garnish with a squeeze of lemon or lime.
#7 Vodka Cranberry Splash
Calories: 116
Cranberry love without the calorie baggage.
Ingredients:
2 ounces vodka
2 ounce cranberry
1/5 ounce lime juice
Instructions:
Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with cubed ice.
Shake well.
Strain in a short rocks glass over ice.
#8 Dry Martini
Calories: 133
Sweet, peachy, and guilt-free indulgence. Making a classic Dry Martini involves a simple combination of gin and dry vermouth, garnished with a twist of lemon or an olive. You can learn more about how to make every martini with this guide here. Here's a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
2 ounces gin
1/4 ounce dry vermouth
Ice cubes
Lemon twist or olive, for garnish
Instructions:
Place your martini glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water to chill while you prepare the cocktail.
Add the gin and vermouth to a mixing glass filled with cubed ice and stir till you’ve reached your preferred dilution (about 15 seconds is the norm).
Strain into your chilled martini glass.
Garnish your Dry Martini with a twist of lemon peel or an olive. To create a lemon twist, express the oil from the lemon peel over the drink by giving it a twist, then drop it into the glass. Alternatively, you can use an olive or two, depending on your preference.
Adjust the gin-to-vermouth ratio according to your personal taste preferences. Some individuals prefer an even drier martini with less vermouth, while others enjoy a slightly wetter version with a touch more vermouth.
#9 Skinny Aperol Spritz
Calories: 210
Aperol's orange bliss in a lighter form.
Ingredients:
3 ounces of Prosecco (or any dry sparkling wine)
2 ounces of Aperol
Splash of soda water (adjust to taste)
Ice cubes
Orange slice or twist for garnish
Instructions:
Opt for a lower-calorie or "skinny" Prosecco if available. These are typically labelled as such and contain fewer calories than regular Prosecco.
Pour your ingredients in a wine glass over cubed ice and stir to combine.
Garnish your Skinny Aperol Spritz with an orange slice or twist for a citrusy aroma.
#10 Blueberry Mint Sparkler
Calories: 162
Bursting with berries and minty freshness. Creating a Blueberry Mint Sparkler is a delightful way to enjoy a refreshing and fruity cocktail. Here's a simple recipe for this vibrant and flavorful drink:
Ingredients:
1/2 cup fresh blueberries
8-10 fresh mint leaves
1 teaspoons honey or simple syrup (adjust to taste)
1.5 ounces vodka
1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
Sparkling water
Ice cubes
Mint sprig and blueberries for garnish
Instructions:
In a cocktail shaker, muddle the fresh blueberries and mint leaves together. This helps release their flavors.
Add Honey, Vodka and Lime juice
Shake the mixture well to combine the ingredients and chill the mixture.
Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice cubes and top off the cocktail with sparkling water
Garnish your Blueberry Mint Sparkler with a sprig of mint and a few fresh blueberries for a visually appealing presentation.
#11 Vodka Soda Lime
Calories: 100
A delightful blend of sweet and tart.
Ingredients:
1.5 ounce Vodka
8 ounces Soda water (or slimline tonic for a delightful twist)
1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a tall glass over ice.
Garnish with a lime wheel
#12 Mojito
Calories: 152
Mojitos just got a low-calorie makeover.
Ingredients:
2 ounces white rum
1 ounce fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
6-8 fresh mint leaves
Soda water (club soda)
Ice cubes
Lime wedge and mint sprig for garnish
Instructions:
Add the lime juice and mint to a tall glass and lightly muddle.
Add the sugar then stir till the sugar has dissolved
Add the rum and top with crushed ice. Churn the ingredients around the ice to combine and distribute the mint.
Top with Soda water and garnish with mint sprigs and a lime wedge or wheel.
For how to make crushed ice at home, check out this course.
#13 Light Pineapple Coconut Mojito
Calories: 125
A tropical twist with fewer calories.
Ingredients:
1.5 ounces white rum
1 ounce fresh lime juice
1 ounce pineapple juice
1 ounce coconut water
6-8 fresh mint leaves
Soda water (club soda)
Ice cubes
Lime wedge, pineapple leaf and mint sprig for garnish
Instructions:
Add the lime juice and mint to a tall glass and lightly muddle.
Add the rum, coconut and pineapple then top with crushed ice. Churn the ingredients around the ice to combine and distribute the mint.
Top with Soda water and garnish with mint sprigs and a lime wedge or wheel. With pineapple leaves sticking out the top. To go the extra mile, before making this cocktail rim the glass with lime and desiccated coconut.
#14 Rosemary Grapefruit Paloma
Calories: 184
Citrusy sophistication with a herbal touch. A Rosemary Grapefruit Paloma is a delightful twist on the classic Paloma cocktail, infusing it with the aromatic and herbal notes of rosemary. Here's a simple recipe for you:
Ingredients:
2 ounces tequila
1 ounce fresh grapefruit juice
1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
1/2 ounce simple syrup (adjust to taste)
Soda water (club soda)
Ice cubes
Fresh rosemary sprig and grapefruit wedge for garnish
Instructions:
In a shaker, combine 2 ounces of tequila, 1 ounce of fresh grapefruit juice, 1/2 ounce of fresh lime juice, and 1/2 ounce of simple syrup.
Shake Well and strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice cubes.
Top off the glass with soda water (club soda) to add effervescence. Adjust the amount to your desired level of fizziness.
Garnish your Rosemary Grapefruit Paloma with a fresh rosemary sprig and a wedge of grapefruit.
Prepare Rosemary Simple Syrup (Optional):
If you want to enhance the rosemary flavor, you can prepare rosemary-infused simple syrup. Combine equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan, add a few rosemary sprigs, and heat until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool before using.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness and rosemary intensity to your taste preferences. Cheers!
#15 Tequila Soda Lime
Calories: 102
Tangy and tantalizing without the sugar overload.
Ingredients:
1.5 ounce Tequila
8 ounces Soda water (or slimline tonic for a delightful twist)
1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a tall glass over ice.
Garnish with a lime wheel
#16 Melon Mint Refresher
Calories: 194
A melon-infused pick-me-up for your palate.
Ingredients:
1.5 ounces melon-flavored vodka (or regular vodka if melon-flavored is unavailable)
1/2 ounce elderflower liqueur
1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
1/2 ounce simple syrup (adjust to taste)
Fresh mint leaves
Soda water (club soda)
Ice cubes
Melon slices and mint sprig for garnish
Instructions:
In a shaker, gently muddle a few fresh mint leaves to release their aromatic oils.
Add Vodka, Elderflower Liqueur, Lime Juice, and Simple Syrup to the shaker. Fill with ice and shake well
Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice cubes.
Top with Soda Water:
Garnish your Melon and Mint Refresher with melon slices and a sprig of fresh mint.
#17 Ginger Lemongrass Collins
Calories: 172
A zesty dance of ginger and lemongrass. The Ginger Lemongrass Collins is a refreshing and aromatic cocktail that combines the zesty flavors of lemongrass and ginger with the classic Tom Collins base. Here's a simple recipe for you:
Ingredients:
2 ounces gin
1/2 ounce sugar syrup
3/4 ounce fresh lemon juice
1 Wheel of ginger
1 Stick of lemongrass
Soda water (club soda)
Ice cubes
Lemongrass stalk and lemon wheel for garnish
Instructions:
Muddle the lemongrass and ginger in the bottom of a cocktail shaker along with the gin and syrup.
Add the lemon juice then shake well.
Garnish into a Collins glass filled with cubed ice and top with soda water.
Garnish with a lemongrass stalk and lemon wheel.
#18 Gibson Martini
Calories: 133
Sweet, peachy, and guilt-free indulgence. Making a classic Dry Martini involves a simple combination of gin and dry vermouth, garnished with a twist of lemon or an olive. Another martini covered in my ultimate martini guide. Here's a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
2 ounces gin
1/4 ounce dry vermouth
Ice cubes
1 pickled onion for garnish
Instructions:
Place your martini glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water to chill while you prepare the cocktail.
Add the gin and vermouth to a mixing glass filled with cubed ice and stir till you’ve reached your preferred dilution (about 15 seconds is the norm).
Strain into your chilled martini glass.
Garnish your Dry Martini with a pickled onion
Determining the calories.
Quick note to end on. I mentioned throughout that calories can dramatically change depending on how the drink is made. These calories are estimates based on the recipes provided. Small difference can make big changes to the calories. So be mindful and count the calories yourself before relying on what’s mentioned here.
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Hi, I’m Cameron, guv’nor of Smartblend. If you liked this then you’re in luck, I have a bunch more like it. I share only party planning, vegetarian and pescatarian food recipes, cocktails, and drink guides with a sprinkling of wellness and lifestyle. If that sounds like you, then stick around!
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