Soak Up the Sun: Summer Mocktails for Your Wellness Journey

Summer Beverages with None of the Guilt

The sun is staying out longer and that means more time to enjoy summer. And what better way to embrace the warmth of the season than with a cool, refreshing drink in hand? While many of us may associate summer with cocktails and beachside indulgence, there’s a growing trend that’s making waves – mocktails.

Mocktails, aka non-alcoholic cocktails, are gaining popularity for all the right reasons. Everyone loves a good cocktail every now and then but when you’re prioritizing your health or have body composition goals, cocktails can keep you from seeing results. Getting a guilt-free health supportive option for a summer drink makes sticking to your healthy habits a lot easier.

This summer, as you embark on outdoor adventures, backyard barbecues, and lazy days by the pool, let’s explore the world of mocktails and discover why they’re the perfect choice for anyone looking to quench their thirst while staying true to their wellness goals.

Taking Charge of Your Choices

You know what’s truly empowering? It’s calling the shots and making choices that truly resonate with your values and priorities. Whether it’s a personal decision to skip alcohol or simply a preference for the vibrant flavors of a mocktail, embracing these non-alcoholic alternatives is all about taking ownership of your decisions. So, let’s raise that glass (or fancy mason jar) and toast to doing things our way.

Here’s to Your Well-being

Looking after yourself shouldn’t mean sacrificing flavor or fun. That’s where mocktails swoop in as the unsung heroes of healthy sipping. By opting for these alcohol-free delights, you’re not only dodging the sneaky extra calories but also keeping yourself nicely hydrated – total wins in my playbook. Now, I’m not advocating for a complete alcohol ban, but throwing in a mocktail every now and then? Totally worth it.

Discovering the Delight of Ritual Zero Proof

When it comes to non-alcoholic options, one brand stands out among the rest for me – Ritual Zero Proof. Let me tell you, I’ve sampled quite a few non-alcoholic alternatives, but nothing quite compares to the experience I’ve had with Ritual.

I don’t even see it as ‘giving up’ alcohol – with Ritual, it’s more like I’m gaining a whole new world of flavors and possibilities. From their meticulously crafted spirits to their dedication to quality, Ritual has truly won me over.

And to kickstart your journey into the world of non-alcoholic mixology, here are a few of my tried-and-true recipes featuring Ritual Zero Proof:

Margarita Mocktail Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Ritual Tequila Alternative
• 1 oz. fresh lime juice
• 4 oz Simply Light Lemonade
• Garnish: salt rim, sliced orange, sliced lime 

Instructions:

1. In a shaker filled with ice, combine the Ritual Tequila Alternative, fresh lime juice, and light lemonade.
2. Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a cocktail glass with a salt rim.
4. Garnish with a lime slice or wedge.
5. Feel free to customize this Margarita mocktail recipe to suit your taste preferences. 

Mojito Mocktail Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Ritual Rum Alternative
• 4 oz. soda water
• 1-2 tbsp Honey 
• Fresh mint leaves
• 2-3 limes

Instructions:

1. In a highball glass, add fresh mint leaves and squeeze the juice of 2-3 limes.
2. Gently muddle the mint to release its essence without crushing the leaves completely.
3. Add the Ritual Rum Alternative, honey , and crushed ice to the glass.
4. Stir the ingredients with a bar spoon until well incorporated.
5. Top up the glass with more ice and soda water.

Mule Mocktail Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Ritual Gin Alternative
• 1/2 oz. lime juice
• 4 oz. Light ginger beer
• Garnish: lime wedges

Instructions:

1. Fill a copper mug or tumbler with ice.
2. Pour in the Ritual Gin Alternative, lime juice, and light ginger beer.
3. Give it a gentle stir to mix the ingredients.
4. Garnish with lime wedges.
5. Enjoy the zesty and invigorating flavors of this ginger mocktail!

Want to reach your goals faster? Schedule a Mini Nutrition Session with Dietitian Britt today! Schedule Here!

By: Britt Bailey, MS, RDN, LDN