It’s no secret that alcohol is packed with calories. Plus, the higher the alcohol content in a drink, the more calories it has. If you aim to skim back on calories at the bar, order drinks with sugar-free soda, sparkling water or a squeeze of fresh citrus instead of cocktails that have a base of fruit juice, simple syrup or cream.
When you’re mixing up drinks for girls’ night in or the occasion calls for a cocktail, these skinny drinks are a tasty solution to cut back on calories while you celebrate. More of a teetotaler? Try these refreshing non-alcoholic party drinks.
Wine Spritzers
Start with a wine that has a lower alcohol content and pair it with sparkling water and fresh fruit or a splash of juice to keep the calories at about 100-125 per serving. Look for wines labeled around 11% ABV or less or order wine that’s typically lower in alcohol like riesling, beaujolais or moscato. Up next: Don’t miss the healthy Starbucks drinks that’ll help kick your Frappuccino habit.
Vodka Soda
A shot of vodka with diet cola or club soda with a squeeze of lime is a skinny choice at about 100 calories per drink. Psst! Did you know that Costco sells 100-calorie vodka ice pops?
Fresh Lime Margaritas
Skip the popular syrup mixes and stir in a non-caloric sweetener instead. Or, use just a sprinkle of real sugar plus lime juice, tequila, triple sec and fresh citrus as seen in this Fresh Lime Margarita recipe. The trade will cut the calories to just 150 per serving instead of 300 to 700 calories in a traditional cocktail.
Whiskey Ginger
If you’re a broody whiskey fan, try pairing this smoky drink with diet ginger ale and a squeeze of lime for a low-cal option. Using a diet soda reduces the calories to 125 calories per drink. Don’t miss these healthy carbonated drinks you can indulge in guilt-free.
Skinny Mojitos
Mojitos are a minty-fun option for the summer months. To keep them slim, ask the bartender to leave out the sugar or simple syrup and stir in a packet of sugar substitute instead to keep this cocktail around 100 calories. Mojitos are just one example of the best drink options for people with diabetes.
Bloody Mary
A simple Bloody Mary is moderately high in calories at about 180 per serving, but this is one cocktail that actually provides some nutrients, too. With the extra vitamin C, vitamin A and potassium, you can feel better about what you’re getting for your calories. Remember, though, that they’re usually high in sodium.
Low-Cal Moscow Mules
Craving this copper cup cocktail? Opt for diet ginger ale in place of ginger beer to slim down the calories from 180 to 100. Learn how to make the best moscow mule.
Gimlet
If gin is your preferred liquor, you’re in luck! Pair it with a splash of lime for a classic Gimlet and your drink will top out at about 180 calories.
Old-Fashioned
Whether you sip yours with whiskey or prefer a brandy old-fashioned, this classic cocktail has less than 180 calories. If your version is topped off with soda, use diet. Be sure to check out our other classic cocktail recipes worth serving at your next soiree.
Champagne
Leave out any fancy syrups or added fruit juice and add fresh raspberries instead to top off this fizzy, lower-calorie option. A 6-ounce pour of champagne tops off at 120 calories. Don’t miss our favorite sparkling wines under $20.
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Wendy Jo Peterson, MS, RDN