It can be tough to navigate summer parties while maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and it can feel like it’s way too easy to “undo” all your hard work in one day. One thing that helps me is to moderate my alcohol intake. At my in-law’s annual 4th of July party, there is plenty of adult beverages to go around and friendly pressure to imbibe. And since the party lasts upwards of 8-10 hours (!), it’s hard to stay away for long. Alcohol is a double-whammy — not only is it pretty calorie-dense, it also lowers inhibitions and makes willpower disappear around all the yummy, carb-heavy, sugary foods sitting in plain sight. Make sure that you are staying hydrated by alternating water with your cocktails or beer. For more tips on enjoying summer parties without paying the price later, check out my blog from the archives here —> Navigating the Temptations of Summer Barbecues
Check out these cocktail alternatives to cut down on the calories without sacrificing flavor:
Skinny Margarita
http://cookieandkate.com/2012/fresh-margaritas/
Watermelon Vodka
Chop up a watermelon and soak in vodka (try a fun flavored one!) for a few hours in the fridge, and then mash up or blend.
Skinny Mojito
http://www.skinnytaste.com/2008/04/cuban-mojito-recipe-2-ww-pts.html
White Wine Sangria
1 bottle of white wine (I like to use a white blend like Seven Daughters, or you can use a reisling, moscato, or pinot grigio)
Several cups of fruit — berries, apples, citrus, kiwi, peaches
A few springs of fresh herbs — mint, basil
Sprite Zero
Mix everything together in a pitcher and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but more is better to let all the flavors intermingle.