Lighten up your cocktails with these five simple tips for making healthier drinks. These simple swaps will help cut unnecessary sugars while still maintaining the flavor and balance of your favorite cocktail. Your updated cocktails will be tastier and healthier for you, which means you can order another round!
Tip #1: Use Sparkling Water
Swap out soda or fruit juice for sparkling water. Flavored sparkling water typically has very few calories and little or no added sugar, making it a healthier option. You’ll still get the fizz and flavor. TheseMargaritasandPiña Coladasboth use sparkling water.
Pictured recipe:Jalapeño Margarita
Tip #2: Make Your Own Mixers
Store-bought mixers for drinks likeMargaritasorMoscow Mulesoften contain high amounts of sugar. By making your own, you can manage the sweetness of your cocktail. Karen Rankin, a recipe developer and food stylist in our test kitchen, suggests using a combination of fresh fruit juice and sparkling water instead. You can add a touch of sugar to the mix depending on your tastes.
Tip #3- Maximize Fresh Fruits
Fresh fruits are the perfect option for making cocktails lighter without compromising on flavor. Add freshly squeezed juice to a homemade mixer or useslices of fruitto make a fun garnish for your glass. Rankin suggests mashing some berries or adding ripe pineapple to your drink for the perfect amount of sweetness.
Diabetes-Friendly Cocktails and Mocktails
Pictured recipe:Moscow Mules
Tip #4: Take It Easy on Simple Syrup
Cocktails That Aren’t Sugar Bombs
Tip #5: Add a Pinch of Salt
While this tip may seem counterintuitive, cocktails are all about creating a balanced drink. As Rankin says, “A pinch of salt will amplify the sweetness in your cocktail while minimizing any bitterness your palate might detect.” The combination of salty and sweet will make a drink that is delicious, like our take on aSalty Dog.
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