Picture this: a sun-drenched afternoon, good company, and a chilled glass in hand—without the calorie count weighing you down. As summer heats up, we’ve gathered 20 refreshing, low-calorie cocktail recipes that let you sip smartly and savor every moment. From zesty spritzers to fruity twists, these drinks are perfect for beating the heat. Dive in and discover your new go-to summer sips!
Sparkling Cucumber Mint Gin Fizz
Elevate your holiday hosting with this effervescent, herbaceous cocktail that’s as refreshing as it is festive. Grab your shaker—this Sparkling Cucumber Mint Gin Fizz comes together in minutes and delivers a crisp, bubbly punch. Perfect for toasting the season without the fuss.
Serving: 2 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup fresh cucumber, peeled and sliced
- 8 fresh mint leaves
- 3 oz gin
- 2 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 4 oz chilled sparkling water
- Ice cubes
- 2 cucumber slices for garnish
- 2 mint sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Place 1/2 cup cucumber slices and 8 mint leaves in a cocktail shaker.
- Muddle the cucumber and mint firmly for 30 seconds to release their juices and oils.
- Add 3 oz gin, 2 oz lime juice, and 1 oz simple syrup to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker halfway with ice cubes.
- Secure the shaker lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15 seconds until well-chilled.
- Strain the mixture into two tall glasses filled with fresh ice, dividing it evenly.
- Top each glass with 2 oz chilled sparkling water.
- Gently stir each drink once with a bar spoon to combine.
- Garnish each glass with 1 cucumber slice and 1 mint sprig.
Here’s the finish: this fizz boasts a lively, effervescent texture with a crisp cucumber base and a bright minty lift. Serve it over extra ice in a highball glass for maximum chill, or batch it ahead without the sparkling water for easy entertaining—just top and go when guests arrive.
Skinny Margarita with Fresh Lime Juice
A skinny margarita that ditches the sugar without sacrificing flavor. Grab your shaker—this fresh lime version is about to become your go-to happy hour hero. It’s crisp, tart, and ridiculously easy to make in minutes.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
– 2 oz silver tequila
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz orange liqueur (like Cointreau or triple sec)
– 1/2 oz agave nectar
– 1 cup ice cubes
– Lime wedge (for garnish)
– Coarse salt (for rim, optional)
Instructions
1. If using a salt rim, rub the lime wedge around the rim of a rocks glass, then dip the rim into a shallow plate of coarse salt to coat it evenly.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with 1 cup of ice cubes.
3. Pour 2 oz silver tequila into the shaker.
4. Add 1 oz fresh lime juice to the shaker.
5. Measure and pour 1/2 oz orange liqueur into the shaker.
6. Add 1/2 oz agave nectar to the shaker.
7. Securely close the shaker and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until the outside feels very cold to the touch.
8. Fill the prepared glass with fresh ice cubes.
9. Strain the shaken mixture into the glass over the ice.
10. Garnish with the lime wedge by placing it on the rim of the glass.
Enjoy this margarita immediately for the best flavor. The fresh lime juice delivers a bright, zesty kick that balances perfectly with the smooth tequila and subtle sweetness from the agave. For a fun twist, serve it over crushed ice or add a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy variation.
Light Vodka Soda with Grapefruit Twist
Ready to ditch the sugary cocktails? This crisp, citrusy vodka soda cuts through holiday heaviness with bright grapefruit and clean bubbles—your new go-to for effortless entertaining.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
– 2 oz vodka
– 4 oz soda water
– 1/2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
– 1 grapefruit wedge
– 1 cup ice cubes
Instructions
1. Fill a highball glass with 1 cup of ice cubes.
2. Pour 2 oz of vodka directly over the ice.
3. Squeeze 1/2 oz of fresh grapefruit juice into the glass, straining out any seeds.
4. Top the mixture with 4 oz of soda water.
5. Gently stir the drink 3–4 times with a bar spoon to combine without losing carbonation.
6. Rub the cut side of a grapefruit wedge around the rim of the glass to release oils.
7. Place the grapefruit wedge on the rim as a garnish.
8. Serve immediately while the soda water is still effervescent.
Kick back with this refreshing sip—the grapefruit adds a tangy bite that balances the smooth vodka, while the bubbles keep it light and crisp. Try it with a salted rim for a savory twist, or swap in blood orange for deeper color.
Low-Calorie Mojito with Stevia
Mix up your holiday happy hour without the guilt! This low-calorie mojito swaps sugar for stevia and keeps all the fresh minty-lime flavor. You’ll be sipping this refreshing cocktail in under 5 minutes.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
– 10 fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 lime, cut into wedges
– 1 tsp stevia powder
– 2 oz white rum
– 1/2 cup club soda
– 1 cup ice cubes
Instructions
1. Place 10 fresh mint leaves and the wedges from 1/2 lime into a sturdy highball glass.
2. Add 1 tsp stevia powder to the glass.
3. Use a muddler to firmly press and twist the mint, lime, and stevia together for about 30 seconds until the mint is fragrant and the lime releases its juice. Tip: Don’t over-muddle the mint into a paste, as this can make it bitter.
4. Fill the glass with 1 cup of ice cubes.
5. Pour 2 oz white rum over the ice.
6. Top the glass with 1/2 cup club soda. Tip: Pour the club soda slowly down the side of the glass to preserve its fizz.
7. Stir the mixture gently with a long spoon for 10 seconds to combine. Tip: For a stronger mint flavor, gently slap a few extra mint leaves between your palms before adding them as a garnish.
8. Serve immediately with a straw.
Overly sweet cocktails are officially canceled. This version is crisp and perfectly balanced, with the stevia providing a clean sweetness that lets the bright lime and herbal mint shine. Serve it in a chilled copper mug for an extra-frosty experience, or double the recipe in a pitcher for a crowd-pleasing holiday punch.
Berry-Infused Vodka Spritzer
Tired of basic cocktails? Transform your vodka with fresh berries for a vibrant, fizzy spritzer that’s perfect for holiday sipping. This berry-infused vodka spritzer blends sweet fruit, crisp vodka, and bubbly soda into a refreshing drink that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Grab your shaker and let’s mix up something special.
Serving: 2 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup mixed fresh berries (such as strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries)
– 4 oz vodka
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 cup club soda
– 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
– Ice cubes
Instructions
1. Rinse 1 cup mixed fresh berries under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Muddle the berries in a cocktail shaker with 2 tbsp granulated sugar until they release their juices and break down slightly.
3. Add 4 oz vodka and 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice to the shaker, then fill it halfway with ice cubes.
4. Secure the lid tightly and shake the mixture vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well-chilled.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into two glasses filled with ice cubes to remove berry solids.
6. Top each glass evenly with 1 cup club soda, pouring slowly to preserve the fizz.
7. Gently stir each drink once with a spoon to combine the ingredients without flattening the bubbles.
8. Serve immediately with a few whole berries as garnish for a pop of color.
Vibrant and effervescent, this spritzer offers a juicy berry flavor with a crisp, refreshing finish from the vodka and soda. The muddled berries create a subtle pulpiness that pairs beautifully with the clean carbonation, making it ideal for sipping on a warm evening or as a festive holiday toast. Try serving it in chilled mason jars with a sprig of mint for an extra touch of freshness.
Skinny Paloma with Fresh Grapefruit
Grapefruit season just got a major glow-up with this light, refreshing cocktail. Skip the sugary mixers and grab fresh fruit for a vibrant drink that won’t weigh you down. It’s the perfect balance of tart, sweet, and fizzy for any occasion.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
– 1/2 cup fresh grapefruit juice
– 1 1/2 oz (3 tbsp) tequila blanco
– 1/2 oz (1 tbsp) fresh lime juice
– 1 tsp agave syrup
– 2 oz (1/4 cup) club soda
– Ice cubes
– Grapefruit wedge (for garnish)
– Coarse salt (for rim)
Instructions
1. Run a grapefruit wedge around the rim of a highball glass.
2. Pour coarse salt onto a small plate and dip the moistened rim into the salt to coat it evenly.
3. Fill the prepared glass with ice cubes.
4. Pour 1 1/2 oz (3 tbsp) tequila blanco directly over the ice in the glass.
5. Add 1/2 cup fresh grapefruit juice to the glass.
6. Squeeze 1/2 oz (1 tbsp) fresh lime juice into the glass.
7. Measure 1 tsp agave syrup and pour it into the glass.
8. Stir the mixture in the glass with a bar spoon for 15 seconds to combine and slightly chill the ingredients.
9. Top the drink with 2 oz (1/4 cup) club soda.
10. Gently stir once more to incorporate the soda without losing carbonation.
11. Garnish the drink with a fresh grapefruit wedge on the rim.
12. Serve immediately.
Oozing with bright citrus notes and a subtle salty kick from the rim, this cocktail feels effervescent and clean. The fresh grapefruit juice provides a pleasant bitterness that balances the agave’s sweetness perfectly. For a creative twist, serve it in a salt-rimmed mason jar with a rosemary sprig for an aromatic garnish.
Herbal Rosemary Gin and Tonic
Viral cocktail alert! This Herbal Rosemary Gin and Tonic upgrades your classic G&T with a fresh, botanical twist. Grab your shaker—it’s time to mix.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
– 2 oz gin
– 4 oz tonic water
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1 sprig fresh rosemary
– 1/2 cup ice cubes
Instructions
1. Place 1/2 cup of ice cubes into a highball glass.
2. Pour 2 oz of gin directly over the ice in the glass.
3. Add 1/2 oz of fresh lime juice to the glass.
4. Gently pour 4 oz of tonic water into the glass to preserve its carbonation.
5. Lightly slap 1 sprig of fresh rosemary between your palms to release its aromatic oils.
6. Place the rosemary sprig into the drink as a garnish.
7. Stir the cocktail gently with a bar spoon for exactly 10 seconds to combine without over-diluting.
8. Serve immediately while the drink is cold and effervescent.
Garnished with aromatic rosemary, this cocktail delivers a crisp, herbaceous flavor that cuts through the gin’s botanicals. The effervescent tonic water creates a refreshing, bubbly texture perfect for sipping straight from the glass. For a creative twist, rim the glass with a sugar-salt blend before adding ice to balance the herbal notes.
Light Pineapple Rum Punch
Escape the holiday hustle with this tropical Light Pineapple Rum Punch. Blend sweet pineapple with smooth rum for a refreshing cocktail that’s perfect for any gathering. Serve it chilled and watch it disappear.
Serving: 6 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
– 4 cups pineapple juice
– 1 cup white rum
– 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup
– 2 cups ice cubes
– 1 lime, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
Instructions
1. Chill a large pitcher in the freezer for 10 minutes to keep the punch cold longer.
2. Pour 4 cups pineapple juice into the chilled pitcher.
3. Add 1 cup white rum to the pitcher.
4. Squeeze 1/2 cup fresh lime juice into the mixture, straining out any seeds.
5. Stir in 1/4 cup simple syrup until fully combined.
6. Add 2 cups ice cubes to the pitcher.
7. Gently muddle 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves in a separate bowl to release their oils, then add to the pitcher.
8. Stir the punch for 30 seconds to blend all ingredients evenly.
9. Slice 1 lime into thin rounds for garnish.
10. Pour the punch into glasses over fresh ice, topping each with a lime slice.
A vibrant, fizzy texture dances on the tongue, with pineapple sweetness balanced by tart lime and herbal mint notes. For a creative twist, freeze pineapple chunks in ice cube trays to chill without diluting the flavor, or serve in hollowed-out pineapples for a festive presentation.
Low-Calorie Whiskey Ginger Highball
Forget heavy holiday drinks—this crisp highball slashes calories without sacrificing that warm whiskey kick. Fresh ginger and zesty lime keep it bright, while club soda adds that signature fizz we crave. Perfect for sipping while wrapping last-minute gifts or toasting by the fire.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
– 2 oz whiskey
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 0.5 oz ginger syrup
– 4 oz club soda
– 1 lime wedge
– Ice cubes
Instructions
1. Fill a highball glass completely with ice cubes to chill the glass and keep the drink cold.
2. Pour 2 oz whiskey directly over the ice in the glass.
3. Add 1 oz fresh lime juice to the glass—squeeze it fresh for the brightest flavor, as bottled juice can taste flat.
4. Measure and pour 0.5 oz ginger syrup into the glass; for a stronger ginger bite, use a homemade syrup simmered with sliced ginger.
5. Top the mixture with 4 oz club soda, pouring slowly down the side of the glass to preserve the carbonation and prevent overflow.
6. Gently stir the drink 3–4 times with a bar spoon to combine the ingredients without losing too much fizz.
7. Garnish with 1 lime wedge squeezed over the top and dropped into the glass for an extra citrus aroma.
8. Serve immediately with a straw for easy sipping.
Punchy ginger spice meets smooth whiskey, all lifted by lively bubbles that make each sip refreshingly light. The lime cuts through with a tangy sharpness, while the syrup adds just enough sweetness to balance. Try it over crushed ice for a quicker chill, or pair with spicy appetizers to let the flavors shine.
Refreshing Watermelon Basil Vodka Cooler
Fight the heat with this vibrant, herb-infused sipper that screams summer. Fresh watermelon and aromatic basil team up with vodka for a crisp, Instagram-worthy cooler that’s dangerously easy to make. Perfect for poolside lounging or backyard barbecues, it’s your new go-to refreshment.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
– 4 cups seedless watermelon cubes
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup vodka
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
– 2 tbsp simple syrup
– 1 cup ice cubes
– 4 fresh basil sprigs for garnish
Instructions
1. Place 4 cups of seedless watermelon cubes in a blender.
2. Add 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves to the blender.
3. Blend the watermelon and basil on high speed for 30 seconds until completely smooth.
4. Strain the watermelon-basil puree through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher to remove pulp and seeds.
5. Pour 1/2 cup of vodka into the pitcher with the strained puree.
6. Add 1/4 cup of fresh lime juice to the pitcher.
7. Stir in 2 tablespoons of simple syrup until fully incorporated.
8. Fill four glasses with 1 cup of ice cubes, dividing it evenly.
9. Pour the watermelon mixture over the ice in each glass, leaving a small space at the top.
10. Garnish each glass with a fresh basil sprig.
Now you’ve got a drink that’s silky-smooth with a subtle herbal kick from the basil. Serve it in chilled mason jars for a rustic touch, or add a splash of soda water for extra fizz—it’s as versatile as it is delicious.
Skinny Espresso Martini with Almond Milk
Kickstart your evening with this guilt-free cocktail that blends bold espresso with creamy almond milk. Forget sugary syrups—this skinny version keeps it clean with just four ingredients. You’ll have a bar-worthy drink ready in under five minutes.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 2 minutes | Cooking Time: 3 minutes
Ingredients
– 2 oz espresso, cooled to room temperature
– 1.5 oz vodka
– 1 oz coffee liqueur
– 2 oz unsweetened almond milk
– 1 cup ice cubes
Instructions
1. Brew 2 oz of espresso using your preferred method and let it cool completely to room temperature, about 15 minutes—this prevents the cocktail from becoming watery when shaken.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with 1 cup of ice cubes.
3. Pour 2 oz of cooled espresso, 1.5 oz of vodka, 1 oz of coffee liqueur, and 2 oz of unsweetened almond milk into the shaker.
4. Secure the lid tightly on the shaker and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until the outside feels frosty—this ensures a smooth, frothy texture.
5. Strain the mixture immediately into a chilled martini glass using a fine-mesh strainer to catch any ice shards or foam clumps.
6. Garnish with three coffee beans placed in the center of the drink for a classic touch, if desired.
What you get is a velvety-smooth sip with a rich coffee kick and subtle nutty undertones from the almond milk. Serve it straight up in a coupe glass for an elegant look, or pour it over fresh ice in a rocks glass for a longer, chilled experience. The frothy top holds its structure beautifully, making every sip feel indulgent yet light.
Citrusy Tequila Soda with Lime
Unwind with this zesty, bubbly cocktail that’s perfect for summer sipping. Grab your shaker—it’s time to mix up a refreshing, citrus-forward drink that’s as easy as it is delicious.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
– 2 oz tequila
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1 oz fresh orange juice
– 1 tsp agave syrup
– 4 oz club soda
– Ice cubes
– Lime wedge for garnish
Instructions
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
2. Pour 2 oz tequila into the shaker.
3. Add 1 oz fresh lime juice to the shaker.
4. Add 1 oz fresh orange juice to the shaker.
5. Add 1 tsp agave syrup to the shaker.
6. Secure the shaker lid tightly and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until well-chilled.
7. Fill a highball glass with fresh ice cubes.
8. Strain the shaken mixture into the prepared glass.
9. Top with 4 oz club soda, pouring slowly to preserve the bubbles.
10. Garnish with a lime wedge on the rim of the glass.
Effervescent and bright, this cocktail bursts with tangy citrus notes balanced by a hint of sweetness. Serve it over crushed ice for an extra-frosty texture, or rim the glass with salt for a savory twist that enhances the tequila’s earthy undertones.
Light Champagne Berry Sangria
Elevate your holiday game with this sparkling, berry-packed sangria. Effortlessly chic and refreshingly light, it’s the bubbly cocktail that turns any gathering into a celebration. Grab your prettiest pitcher and let’s mix.
Serving: 6 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 (750 ml) bottle brut champagne or prosecco, chilled
– 1 cup white rum
– 1/2 cup orange liqueur
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1 cup raspberries
– 1 cup blackberries
– 1 orange, thinly sliced
– Ice, for serving
Instructions
1. Chill a large glass pitcher in the freezer for 10 minutes to keep the sangria extra cold.
2. Pour the chilled champagne, white rum, orange liqueur, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup into the chilled pitcher.
3. Gently stir the liquid mixture with a long spoon until fully combined.
4. Add the sliced strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and orange slices to the pitcher.
5. Stir the mixture again gently to distribute the fruit without crushing the berries.
6. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate the sangria for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Fill serving glasses with ice cubes just before pouring.
8. Ladle the sangria into the ice-filled glasses, ensuring each gets a generous scoop of fruit.
A vibrant, fizzy sip with juicy berry bursts in every glass. The citrus sharpness balances the sweetness perfectly, making it ideal for serving in coupe glasses with a sprig of mint or alongside a cheese board for a festive touch.
Low-Calorie Coconut Rum and Pineapple Splash
Nailing that tropical vibe without the guilt? This low-calorie coconut rum and pineapple splash blends creamy coconut water with tangy pineapple and a splash of rum for a refreshing, vacation-in-a-glass experience.
Serving: 2 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
– 2 cups unsweetened pineapple juice
– 1 cup coconut water
– 4 oz light rum
– 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
– 1 cup ice cubes
– 2 pineapple wedges for garnish
Instructions
1. Chill two tall glasses in the freezer for 5 minutes to keep the drink extra cold.
2. Pour 2 cups unsweetened pineapple juice into a large pitcher.
3. Add 1 cup coconut water to the pitcher.
4. Stir in 4 oz light rum until fully combined.
5. Squeeze 1 tbsp fresh lime juice into the mixture and stir again.
6. Place 1 cup ice cubes into the chilled glasses, dividing evenly.
7. Pour the prepared mixture over the ice in each glass.
8. Garnish each glass with 1 pineapple wedge on the rim.
9. Serve immediately with a straw.
Enjoy the creamy, tropical texture with a bright pineapple kick and a smooth rum finish. For a fun twist, blend the mixture with ice for a frozen slushy version, or add a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes on top for extra crunch.
Sparkling Peach Prosecco Spritzer
Pour yourself a glass of pure sunshine. This Sparkling Peach Prosecco Spritzer blends juicy summer fruit with crisp bubbles for an instant mood-lifter. It’s the ultimate five-minute cocktail that feels fancy without the fuss.
Serving: 2 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh peach slices (about 1 medium peach)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup Prosecco, chilled
- 1/2 cup club soda, chilled
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Place the peach slices, sugar, and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker or sturdy glass.
- Muddle the ingredients vigorously for 30 seconds until the peaches are crushed and juicy.
- Strain the peach mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher, pressing with a spoon to extract all liquid.
- Divide the peach syrup evenly between two tall glasses filled with ice cubes.
- Pour 1/2 cup of chilled Prosecco into each glass.
- Top each glass with 1/4 cup of chilled club soda.
- Gently stir each drink once with a long spoon to combine.
- Garnish each glass with a fresh mint sprig.
Vibrant and effervescent, this spritzer delivers a sweet peach punch balanced by tart lemon and dry Prosecco. The texture is lightly syrupy from the fresh fruit, with lively bubbles that make it irresistibly drinkable. For a creative twist, swap the peaches for frozen berries or add a splash of elderflower liqueur.
Skinny Bloody Mary with Fresh Veggies
Unwind your holiday stress with this vibrant, low-calorie twist on a classic cocktail. Packed with fresh vegetables and zesty flavors, it’s a guilt-free sip that’s perfect for brunch or a festive gathering. Skip the heavy mixers and embrace a crisp, refreshing upgrade that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe.
Serving: 2 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
– 2 cups low-sodium tomato juice
– 4 tbsp fresh lemon juice
– 2 tbsp prepared horseradish
– 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp hot sauce
– 1/2 tsp celery salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 4 oz vodka
– 1 cup ice cubes
– 4 celery stalks
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
– 1/4 cup pickled green beans
– 2 lemon wedges
Instructions
1. Chill two tall glasses in the freezer for 5 minutes to keep the drink crisp.
2. In a large pitcher, combine 2 cups low-sodium tomato juice and 4 tbsp fresh lemon juice.
3. Stir in 2 tbsp prepared horseradish, 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp hot sauce, 1/2 tsp celery salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until fully blended.
4. Add 4 oz vodka to the pitcher and mix gently to incorporate.
5. Fill each chilled glass with 1/2 cup ice cubes.
6. Pour the Bloody Mary mixture evenly into both glasses, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.
7. Garnish each glass with 2 celery stalks, 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, 2 pickled green beans, and 1 lemon wedge on the rim.
8. Serve immediately with a stir stick for mixing.
This cocktail delivers a tangy, spicy kick with a crisp, vegetable-forward crunch from the fresh garnishes. Try skewering the cherry tomatoes and green beans for a fun, interactive presentation that doubles as a snack.
Herbed Vodka Lemonade with Mint
Nailing the perfect summer sip? This herbed vodka lemonade with mint is your answer—bright, botanical, and dangerously easy to crush. Grab your shaker and let’s mix.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1 cup vodka
– 1/2 cup simple syrup
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
– 4 cups ice cubes
– 1 lemon, sliced into rounds
Instructions
1. In a large pitcher, combine 1 cup fresh lemon juice, 1 cup vodka, and 1/2 cup simple syrup.
2. Gently muddle 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves and 2 sprigs fresh rosemary in the pitcher to release their oils—avoid over-muddling to prevent bitterness.
3. Stir the mixture vigorously for 30 seconds to fully integrate the flavors.
4. Add 4 cups ice cubes to the pitcher and stir again until the liquid is chilled, about 1 minute.
5. Strain the mixture into serving glasses filled with fresh ice to remove herb fragments for a smoother drink.
6. Garnish each glass with a lemon slice from the 1 lemon, sliced into rounds.
7. Serve immediately for the best crisp, cold texture.
Light and refreshing, this lemonade balances tart citrus with herbal notes from the mint and rosemary. The vodka adds a smooth kick without overpowering the freshness—perfect for sipping on a patio or pairing with grilled seafood. Try serving it in mason jars with extra mint sprigs for a rustic touch.
Light Cranberry Vodka Fizz
Elevate your holiday vibe with this Light Cranberry Vodka Fizz—a fizzy, tart cocktail that’s ready in minutes. Shake up fresh cranberry flavor with a vodka kick, then top it with bubbly soda for a drink that’s effortlessly chic. Skip the heavy syrups; this recipe keeps it bright and refreshing.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
– 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 oz vodka
– 1/2 cup chilled club soda
– 1 cup ice cubes
– 1 sprig fresh rosemary (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Combine 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup water in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for 5 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cranberry syrup cool to room temperature for 10 minutes.
4. Strain the cooled syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing on the cranberries with a spoon to extract all liquid; discard the solids.
5. Fill a cocktail shaker with 1 cup ice cubes.
6. Pour 2 oz vodka and 2 tbsp of the prepared cranberry syrup into the shaker.
7. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels frosty.
8. Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with fresh ice cubes.
9. Slowly top the glass with 1/2 cup chilled club soda to preserve the fizz.
10. Garnish with 1 sprig fresh rosemary by gently tapping it to release its aroma before placing it in the drink.
Delight in the vibrant red hue and effervescent bubbles that make this cocktail a showstopper. The tart cranberry syrup balances the smooth vodka, while the club soda adds a crisp, refreshing finish—perfect for sipping by the fire or serving in chilled coupe glasses for a festive twist.
Low-Calorie Aperol Spritz Alternative
Rethink your cocktail hour with this vibrant, guilt-free sipper that slashes calories without sacrificing that iconic bittersweet orange flavor. We’re swapping heavy liqueurs for fresh citrus and a splash of seltzer, creating a fizzy, refreshing alternative perfect for sunny afternoons or festive gatherings. Get ready to shake up your routine with a drink that’s as Instagram-worthy as it is easy to make.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
– 3/4 cup orange seltzer water
– 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
– 2 tbsp fresh grapefruit juice
– 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
– 1 tsp orange bitters
– 1 cup ice cubes
– 1 orange slice (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Chill a highball glass in the freezer for 5 minutes to ensure your drink stays cold longer.
2. Pour 1 cup of ice cubes into the chilled glass.
3. Measure 1/4 cup of fresh orange juice and add it directly over the ice.
4. Add 2 tablespoons of fresh grapefruit juice to the glass.
5. Pour 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice into the mixture.
6. Add 1 teaspoon of orange bitters for that classic aromatic bitterness.
7. Slowly top the glass with 3/4 cup of orange seltzer water to preserve the fizz.
8. Gently stir the mixture 3-4 times with a bar spoon to combine without flattening the bubbles.
9. Garnish the rim of the glass with 1 fresh orange slice.
10. Serve immediately while the drink is at its peak fizziness.
You’ll love the bright, effervescent texture that dances on your tongue, with a perfect balance of sweet orange and tangy grapefruit. For a creative twist, rim the glass with a mix of salt and orange zest, or serve it over a large ice sphere to keep it chilled without diluting the flavors.
Refreshing Mango Lime Rum Cooler
Unwind with this tropical escape in a glass—a vibrant mango-lime rum cooler that’s sunshine-sweet with a zesty kick. Perfect for poolside sipping or backyard hangs, it’s your instant vacation vibes.
Serving: 2 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup fresh mango chunks
– ¼ cup fresh lime juice
– 3 tbsp simple syrup
– 4 oz white rum
– 1 cup ice cubes
– 2 lime wedges (for garnish)
– 2 sprigs fresh mint (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Combine 1 cup fresh mango chunks, ¼ cup fresh lime juice, and 3 tbsp simple syrup in a blender.
2. Blend on high speed for 30 seconds until completely smooth, scraping down the sides once if needed.
3. Pour the mango-lime puree through a fine-mesh strainer into a pitcher to remove any fibrous bits, pressing gently with a spoon.
4. Add 4 oz white rum to the strained puree in the pitcher and stir thoroughly with a spoon for 15 seconds.
5. Fill two tall glasses with ½ cup ice cubes each.
6. Divide the rum mixture evenly between the glasses, pouring slowly over the ice.
7. Garnish each glass with 1 lime wedge and 1 sprig fresh mint by placing them on the rim or floating on top.
8. Serve immediately with a straw and stir gently before sipping.
You’ll love the silky-smooth texture that glides over the ice, bursting with ripe mango sweetness balanced by that bright lime tang. Try rimming the glasses with chili-salt for a spicy kick, or swap the rum for tequila to mix things up—it’s endlessly adaptable for your next fiesta.
Summary
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just relaxing on the porch, these 20 refreshing low-calorie cocktails are your perfect summer companions. We hope you find a new favorite to sip and savor! Give a recipe a try, then drop a comment below telling us which one you loved. Don’t forget to share these tasty ideas by pinning this article on Pinterest. Cheers to a delicious season!
