Sip Smart: 3 Low-Calorie Drinks to Enjoy This Summer

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy refreshing drinks while soaking up the sun with friends. If you're mindful of your calorie intake but still want to indulge in a tasty cocktail, you're in luck! Here are three delicious low-calorie alcoholic drinks that are easy to order at any bar. Cheers to a guilt-free summer!

1. The Skinny Margarita

The classic margarita is a summertime favorite, but it can be loaded with sugar and calories. The Skinny Margarita offers a lighter, yet equally delicious, alternative.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz tequila
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 0.5 oz orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec)
• 0.5 oz agave syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
• Splash of soda water

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, orange liqueur, and agave syrup (if using).
2. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice.
3. Top with a splash of soda water.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Why It’s Low-Cal: By using fresh lime juice and a splash of soda water instead of sugary margarita mix, this drink stays light and refreshing without the extra calories.

2. Vodka Soda with a Twist

The Vodka Soda is a classic go-to for a low-calorie cocktail. Adding a twist of citrus or fresh herbs can elevate this simple drink into something special.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz vodka
• Soda water
• Fresh lime or lemon wedge (or both!)
• Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Add vodka and top with soda water.
3. Squeeze in fresh lime or lemon juice.
4. Garnish with a lime or lemon wedge and fresh mint leaves, if desired.

Why It’s Low-Cal: Vodka and soda water are both low in calories, and adding fresh citrus provides flavor without added sugars.

3. Aperol Spritz

The Aperol Spritz is a light and bubbly cocktail perfect for summer afternoons. This Italian classic is low in alcohol and calories, making it a great choice for a refreshing drink.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Aperol
• 3 oz Prosecco
• Splash of soda water
• Orange slice

Instructions:

1. Fill a wine glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Aperol and Prosecco.
3. Add a splash of soda water.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with an orange slice.

Why It’s Low-Cal: Aperol is relatively low in alcohol and calories compared to other spirits, and the combination with Prosecco and soda water keeps the drink light and effervescent.

Final Tips

When ordering these drinks at a bar, you can easily ask the bartender for these simple adjustments to ensure your drink is low-calorie:

• Request fresh lime or lemon juice instead of pre-made mixers.
• Choose soda water or seltzer as a mixer instead of sugary sodas or juices.
• Opt for clear spirits like vodka, tequila, or gin, which generally have fewer calories.

By choosing these low-calorie options, you can enjoy your summer cocktails without compromising your health goals. So go ahead, sip smart, and savor every moment of the sunny season! Cheers!