15 Low-calorie summertime cocktails

May 13, 2014

With the summer approaching, you might find yourself reaching for a tall cold margarita while dining outside or lounging poolside.

I know you know that most cocktails are filled with empty calories and can easily contribute to weight gain (which is particularly dreadful during shorts and bathing suit season). Making a few swaps, such as choosing real fruit instead of sugary mixes and using sparkling water or club soda, can significantly lower the amount of calories, so you can still enjoy a nice drink on a hot summer day without sacrificing your bikini body in the process.

Go one step further and use ingredients that contain antioxidants, such as blueberries (which can assist with fat burning), kiwi (for a punch of vitamin C), and apple (for a dose of fiber).

I’ll personally be sipping on a Strawberry-Lemonade Spritzer this summer. It has less than 200 calories per serving, and it is also refreshing on a hot day.

Strawberry-Lemonade Spritzer

(Makes 8 glasses)

Ingredients

1/2 cup honey or agave nectar

1 cup of strawberries, hulled and mashed

12 ounces of vodka

4 lemons, squeezed

16 ounces of sparkling water

Directions: In a small saucepan, bring the honey and 1/2 cup of water to a boil. Set aside to cool. Divide the mashed strawberries among the 8 glasses and fill each glass with ice. Add the cooled honey mixture, vodka, lemon juice, and sparkling water to a pitcher and stir well. Pour some into each of the 8 glasses and serve immediately.

Here are 14 other lower calorie options to get your party started!