We raid the shelves for some low-calorie cocktails
Refine mixers
Booze is far from low-calorie, but even worse are the syrupy cocktail mixes and sugar-packed juices that go into a cocktail. Before you resign yourself to a life of rum-and-Diet Coke, check out the zero-calorie mixers from Refine. Available in Mojito, Margarita and Cosmo blends, they’re made with all-natural ingredients and sweetened with Stevia. Are they healthy? Probably not. But neither is cranberry juice after it hits the pool with vodka. $10, www.refinemixers.com
Skinnygirl White Cranberry Cosmo
You’ve likely met the Skinnygirl Margarita by now. But it’s time you got to know her hot younger sister, White Cranberry Cosmo. At 100 calories per serving — or a little over 600 per bottle, party girl — it’s a satisfying, tart-and-tasty alternative to a frozen daiquiri disaster. Coming soon to the Skinnygirl shelf: a wine collection, cucumber-infused vodka and ready-to-serve pina coladas. $15, www.skinnygirlcocktails.com
Voli light vodkas
Voli’s light vodkas — available in flavors such as lemon, espresso-vanilla and raspberry-cocoa— have between 25-40 percent fewer calories than the usual suspects. Which is great, but not a free pass to start spiking milkshakes. Go all the way and pair it with other low-cal ingredients for a cocktail such as the “Blushing Berry” (below), which packs a modest 130 calories. $20, www.volispirits.com
Toast smart with:
The Blushing Berry
What’s in it:
1.5 oz. Raspberry-Cocoa Voli
.5 oz. Raspberry liqueur
Splash of diet cranberry juice
How to make it:
Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker and pour into a rocks glass over ice. Garnish with a raspberry and lime twist before serving.
