Classic cocktails at 100 calorie or less

May 7, 3:46 PMCocktails ExaminerCheri Loughlin

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Low calorie cocktails are the order of the day for keeping girlish figures or leaning toward the healthier side of liquid libations. Without placing a label of “diet” on yet another food or drink item, think change or substitution instead. Don’t go without flavor. Cocktails should still be about fun with friends and consuming something you enjoy while still being responsible about what goes into your body.

The following ‘tweaked’ classics do not blare “diet” or “low calorie” in taste at all. Some have no variation while others have such minor substitutions you would hardly notice the change except you know you are doing something good for yourself. Many classics start out lower in calories or may be altered by cutting portion size (from the 6 ounce martini to the 2 ounce martini) or by using alternative sweeteners instead. Small adjustments make a difference, but that does not always mean sacrificing taste.

Below are trouble-free, low calorie cocktails to help you feel better about liquid refreshment without forgoing the cocktail hour altogether.

Irish Coffee- you can enjoy this classic at just 96 calories
1-1/2 ounce Jameson Irish Whiskey
Cup black coffee
Splenda (to sweeten if you feel you need it)

Stir ingredients in a preheated mug and enjoy!

Intoxicologist Note: Irish Coffee is a weekend staple in my home. After the first pot of coffee is gone, the second pot is for sipping with Jameson Irish Whiskey; no sugar needed.

Rum & Cola-Change it up a bit with these substitutions and you’ve got a more flavorful, low-cal cocktail

Coconut Libre: (77 cal)
1-1/2 ounce Malibu Coconut Rum
6 ounces Diet Cola

Stir ingredients to combine in a highball glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Skinny Caipi Cola: (96 cal)
1-1/2 ounce Leblon Cachaça
6 ounces Diet Cola

Stir ingredients to combine in a highball glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Mimosa-This champagne cocktail traditionally thought of as a “breakfast” or “brunch” drink is perfect for an evening refresher as well. No one will know you’re watching your waistline. They’ll just have their eye on your figure.

PJ Mimosa: (71 cal)
1/2 glass Perrier Jouet Champagne
4 ounces light orange juice

Combine ingredients in a champagne flute and serve.

Intoxicologist Note: The PJ Mimosa is especially divine. I happen to love champagne, champagne based cocktails and cocktails floated with champagne, so this one is a winner no matter what without even a hint of “I’m watching my calories.” No one will even suspect. They’ll be whispering to the bartender, “I’ll have what she’s having,” and think they’ve just blown their diet out of the water.

Copyright 2009 Cheri Loughlin – The Intoxicologist – All Rights Reserved

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