Light Cocktails with Big Flavor

Posted: December 31, 2019

Vodka-based drinks are a great option if you're counting carbs or calories. With 0 grams of carbs and <100 calories in a 1.5 oz shot of vodka, you can enjoy a few vodka-based cocktails without throwing off your calorie count for the week.

Vodka sodas are light, but often lacking in flavor, so we've put together some great recipe ideas that don't lack for taste. By using big squeezes of citrus juices and sprigs of fresh herbs, you can add a lot of flavor to a drink without significantly increasing its calorie profile.

Try adding fresh mint, basil, cilantro or thyme to a vodka and club soda.
Flavored soda waters can be a big help-try mandarin Poland Spring, passionfruit La Croix or black cherry Polar with your favorite vodka.
Infused vodkas, like Ketel One Botanicals, Deep Eddy and Stoli Crushed are still low calorie, but the infusions of fruits and herbs impart lots of flavor.
When it comes to mixers, keep them light. Low sugar juices like freshly squeezed orange, grapefruit, tomato, carrot and green juices add vitamins and taste.
Spice can make your cocktail extra nice - try a slice of fresh ginger or jalapeno to mix it up!

Light Cocktail Recipes

Betty Breeze

Ingredients:

2 oz Deep Eddy Cranberry Vodka
1 oz Grapefruit Juice
2 oz Club Soda
Grapefruit

Directions:

Combine all ingredients and serve over ice. If you are feeling adventurous, add three dashes of Angostura Bitters. Garnish with a grapefruit wedge.

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Green Garden

Ingredients:

2 oz Vodka
1 oz Lime Juice
.5 oz Simple Syrup
2-3 Slices Cucumber
Wedge Lime
Sprig Basil
Crushed Ice

Directions:

Muddle 4-5 basil leaves and cucumber slices in a cocktail shaker. Add crushed ice, vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup. Cover and shake for 10 seconds. Strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with basil and a slice of cucumber.

Photo Credit: Russell Caron Wedding Photography