Food & Drink

Healthy Happy Hour in Seattle

Kelly answers the frequent request for low-calorie drink ideas.

By Seattle Mag June 21, 2011

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It’s officially summer and if you’re anything like me, on a nice day I want to be sipping a glass of sparkling rosé on the water.    Summer is such a fun time in the Pacific Northwest, but moderation is key to savoring the sun. 

The most common question I receive from readers is for low-calorie drink options during happy hour.  Happy hour can be a diet death trap because it’s easy to consume the liquid equivalent of a meal before you’ve even had dinner. 

I’m not an advocate of “Iight” drink options (life is just too short for 55 calorie beer), so I’ve researched the best libations naturally less than 100 calories that are full of flavor and freshness.  Order one of these at happy hour or make them at your next stoop party.

Gimlet

1.5 oz gin

2 oz fresh lime juice

1/2 cup ice

(muddle some peeled cucumber for an added layer of freshness)

Stir together, serves one.

Watermelon Martini 

3 oz blended watermelon flesh, chilled

1.5 oz vodka

One mint leaf (optional)

Shake and pour, serves one.

Cape Codder

3 oz light cranberry juice

1.5 oz vodka

Lime wedge for garnish and around rim of glass

Stir together, serves one.

Fresca Mojito
10 fresh mint leaves

1/2 lime, cut into 4 wedges

1 cup ice cubes

1 1/2 oz white rum

1/2 cup Fresca

Muddle, serves one.

Here’s some other low-calorie tricks for your favorite cocktail:

  •  Add some non-alcoholic bubbles.  A white wine spritzer is only 100 calories.
  • Hold the simple syrup or substitute with agave nectar
  • Try an infused spirit on the rocks

All this drinking might leave you hungry.  Don’t miss my post on healthy late-night dining options in Seattle and have fun in the sun!