We're continuing our series on help for the biggest New Year's Resolutions with one that we're seeing a lot of from our readers this year: Cutting back on the booze.
Whether you're trimming the budget, slimming down, or maybe even popping out (!) with a bun in the oven, I've put together a few thirst-quenching mocktails that are heavy on flavor and light on liquor.
I have a feeling with this great list of drinks, you'll hardly remember what you're missing.-Molly
Rosemary Citrus Spritzer
I have a serious weakness for those little Christmas tree-shaped rosemary bushes that show up at grocery stores every year around the holidays. It sits on my counter making me look the part of fancy gourmet but rarely do I put any of those weedy little aromatic sprigs to use. So between a citrus season in full swing and that rosemary bush sitting on my counter, I'll be serving up a lot of these babies.
Warm Witch's Brew Though Halloween is long gone, this dark mulled brew is the perfect beverage for warming from the inside out, all winter long.
Cranberry Sparkler Martha Stewart is always a great source for party drinks and her sparkling cranberry version with a little mint for garnish is elegant but simple. This would be great for a baby shower any time of year.Apple Basil Mojito Now I know what to do with that basil plant wilting on my kitchen windowsill. This recipe from Cheeky Kitchen looks absolutely, unexpectedly delicious.
Mama Mary My blogging friend Alyson shares an adorable illustrated version of her four favorite drinks to sip on while expecting, from Pina Ginger "Beer" to these awesome Virgin Mary's. I'd just recommend adding fresh grated horseradish, for the kick without the vodka.Greeña Colada This colada concoction is not only gluten-free, it will also let you check off a box for that "eat healthier" resolution, too--the main ingredients are cucumber, pineapple, and natural Stevia for sweetness without all the calories.
For more ideas and inspiration, check out the 50 mocktail recipes in The Newly Non-Drinking Girl's Guide to Pregnancy. Pinterest is also a great resource. And here's a handy list of non alcoholic substitutions at Gourmet Sleuth for almost any alcoholic ingredient. Cheers!
