15 Low-Calorie Alcoholic Drinks That Won’t Wreck Your Diet
Trying to stick to your health goals but still want to enjoy a drink now and then? Good news: you don’t have to choose between happy hour and your waistline. There are plenty of cocktails and drinks that are light on calories—but still full of flavor. Here are 15 low-calorie alcoholic drinks that let you sip smart without sabotaging your progress.
1. Vodka Soda with Lime
Imagine a warm summer evening paired with a refreshing Vodka Soda with Lime. This classic cocktail is celebrated for its simplicity and crisp taste. With less than 100 calories per serving, it’s the ideal choice for calorie-conscious drinkers. Fresh lime enhances the flavor without adding sugar, making it both healthy and delicious. Enjoy the refreshing bubbles as they tingle your taste buds and cool you down. Vodka Soda is a perfect companion for those who love a clean and modern taste. Its minimalistic charm is bound to leave a lasting impression, especially when shared with friends.
2. Light Beer
Light Beer is your go-to drink for casual gatherings and barbecues. With around 90 to 110 calories per bottle, it helps you keep your calorie count in check while enjoying a refreshing drink. Light beers are often lower in alcohol content, helping you pace yourself through long social events. Packed with subtle flavors, they are perfect for a relaxed evening. The fizz and lightness of the beer make it easy to sip. Whether you prefer it from the bottle or a chilled glass, Light Beer remains a popular choice for those watching their waistline.
3. Dry White Wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
Dry White Wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio offers a sophisticated and elegant experience. With approximately 110 calories per 5 oz glass, these wines are loved for their crisp and aromatic profiles. They pair beautifully with light meals and are perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Sipping on a glass of dry white wine transports you to sun-drenched vineyards. The low sugar content makes it an appealing choice for health-conscious wine lovers. Ideal for intimate dinners or solo relaxation, this wine offers a refreshing taste without the guilt of added calories.
4. Champagne or Prosecco (Brut)
A toast with Champagne or Prosecco (Brut) brings sparkle to any occasion. These sparkling wines are not just for celebrations; with 90 to 100 calories per 5 oz serving, they are also a lower-calorie alternative to many traditional mixed drinks. Their effervescence and dry finish make them delightful to sip on. Whether you’re enjoying a festive gathering or a quiet moment of indulgence, Champagne and Prosecco add a touch of elegance. They are perfect for those who enjoy a bubbly experience with a light and crisp profile, leaving you refreshed and satisfied.
5. Skinny Margarita
The Skinny Margarita is a zesty twist on the classic cocktail that’s big on flavor but light on calories. With around 130 calories, it combines fresh lime juice, a splash of orange juice or triple sec, and tequila. This refreshing drink skips the sugary premix, letting natural citrus flavors shine. It’s a tropical escape in a glass, perfect for beach days or summer nights. The salt rim adds a savory touch, enhancing the tangy lime essence. Enjoy a Skinny Margarita when you crave a vibrant and spirited drink without the sugar overload.
6. Gin and Diet Tonic
Gin and Diet Tonic is a timeless classic that offers full-bodied flavor without the sugar crash. With approximately 65 to 80 calories, this cocktail combines the botanical notes of gin with the fizzy refreshment of diet tonic water. It’s an invigorating drink that’s both elegant and uncomplicated. The absence of sugar in the tonic highlights the complex flavors of the gin. Ideal for a sophisticated evening or casual get-together, it’s a drink that stands out for its simplicity and taste. Raise your glass to a gin cocktail that won’t derail your health ambitions.
7. Spiked Seltzer or Hard Sparkling Water
Spiked Seltzer or Hard Sparkling Water is the modern answer to light and fruity refreshment. With 90 to 100 calories per can, it’s an ideal choice for those who love variety and low-sugar options. Available in numerous flavors, these drinks are both hydrating and invigorating. The effervescent bubbles and subtle fruit notes make it perfect for beach outings and poolside lounging. It’s an uncomplicated way to enjoy a drink without worrying about sugar content. For those who like to experiment with flavors, Spiked Seltzer offers a versatile and fun drinking experience.
8. Mojito (Skinny Version)
Picture the refreshing taste of a Skinny Mojito, a cocktail that encapsulates the spirit of summer. With about 110 calories, it uses fresh lime juice, mint, soda water, and just a hint of simple syrup or stevia. The result is a bright and invigorating drink that captures the heart of the classic mojito without the extra sugar. Mint leaves and lime give it an aromatic freshness that’s hard to resist. Perfect for sunny afternoons or lively gatherings, a Skinny Mojito is your ticket to a vibrant and low-calorie treat that delights the senses.
9. Whiskey on the Rocks
For those who appreciate the finer things, Whiskey on the Rocks offers a no-fuss, no-frills experience. At about 100 calories per 1.5 oz serving, it’s the essence of pure, undiluted flavor. This drink is all about savoring the rich and smooth notes of whiskey without the interference of mixers. The chilling effect of the ice slightly mellows the whiskey, allowing you to enjoy its complexity. Ideal for sipping slowly and appreciating its depth, Whiskey on the Rocks is perfect for relaxing evenings or sophisticated gatherings, where quality is key.
10. Paloma (Light)
The Light Paloma is a refreshing blend of tequila, fresh grapefruit juice, lime, and soda water. With around 120 calories, it offers a tart and citrusy taste that’s as invigorating as a sunny day. The combination of ingredients creates a balanced drink that’s both flavorful and light. Perfect for those who love a zesty and tangy profile, the Light Paloma is a delightful option for outdoor parties or casual gatherings. The fresh grapefruit juice adds a natural sweetness without added sugars, making it a smart choice for health-minded individuals.
11. Aperol Spritz (Slimmed Down)
Aperol Spritz (Slimmed Down) is the epitome of Italian leisure. With about 110 calories, this cocktail uses a touch of Aperol, prosecco, and soda water. Its slightly bitter and sweet profile is balanced by the bubbly prosecco, making it a refreshing choice for warm afternoons. The vibrant orange hue and effervescent bubbles make it visually appealing. Ideal for brunches or sunset gatherings, the Aperol Spritz is a drink that embodies the art of relaxation. Enjoy it with friends or during a quiet moment, and savor the leisurely pace it inspires.
12. Bloody Mary (Hold the Garnish Tower)
The Bloody Mary is a brunch staple, known for its savory blend of tomato juice, vodka, lemon, and spices. With roughly 120 calories, it offers a hearty and flavorful experience without the need for extravagant garnishes. Its rich taste and robust flavor profile make it a go-to for those seeking a satisfying cocktail. The absence of over-the-top garnishes lets the core ingredients shine. Whether you’re enjoying a relaxed morning or a lively brunch, a Bloody Mary provides a bold and savory taste that’s sure to impress, without excess calories.
13. Wine Spritzer
The Wine Spritzer is a delightful blend of wine and soda water, making it a light and refreshing choice. With 75 to 85 calories, it’s perfect for hot days and extended brunches. The effervescence from the soda water adds a crispness to the wine, creating a bubbly experience. Ideal for those who enjoy a leisurely drink, the wine spritzer is a versatile option that pairs well with light meals. Enjoy its simple elegance and refreshing nature as you soak up the sun or relax in the shade, knowing you are sipping wisely.
14. Michelada (Light Beer Base)
Michelada is a spicy, savory, and satisfying drink with a light beer base. Containing about 100 to 120 calories, it’s an exciting option for those who enjoy bold flavors. The mix of lime, hot sauce, and a hint of Worcestershire sauce gives it a unique and memorable taste. Perfect for pairing with Mexican food or enjoying on a hot day, Michelada is a drink that stands out for its zest and vigor. Its combination of ingredients creates a balance that intrigues the palate, offering a lively and adventurous drinking experience.
15. Rum and Diet Cola
Rum and Diet Cola is a classic choice for those who appreciate simplicity and low-calorie enjoyment. With approximately 65 to 80 calories, it combines the rich taste of rum with a zero-calorie mixer. The result is a smooth and satisfying drink that’s easy on the waistline. It’s perfect for casual nights out or laid-back evenings at home. The bubbly cola adds a refreshing element, while the rum provides a warming undertone. Enjoy this straightforward cocktail when you want something familiar yet mindful of calories, making every sip count without guilt.