A little Naughty, But Mostly Nice Holiday Drinks
One of the things I often hear from clients is that they don’t want to give up their wine or other alcoholic beverages. I am a big believer in balance and sometimes that may mean having a drink, especially when you’re celebrating the holidays with your family and friends. To get the most value out of your alcoholic beverages, take a look at my tips and recipes for healthier versions of classic favorites.
Best drinks at the party:
Organic Red Wine without sulfites added – red wine has the highest level of antioxidants and resveratrol, which has shown to have some heart-healthy benefits. One 5-ounce glass contains only 100 calories
Organic White Wine without sulfites added – one 5-ounce glass contains only 120 calories.
Champagne/Sparking Wine/Prosecco – each glass is usually 3.5 ounces and has 70 calories.
Z-Tips:
Drink flavored Italian sparkling water from champagne flutes in between alcoholic beverages to reduce alcohol consumption and stay hydrated. Try raspberry/lemon or the strawberry flavors.
Avoid martinis and instead have your drink on ice. As ice melts, it will dilute alcohol and make your drink less concentrated, making it easier for your body to process
Substitute dairy milk and cream for almond milk and coconut cream. Plant-based milks are cholesterol-free and they offer additional benefits like vitamin E and good-for-you fats.
Recipes:
Pineapple Vodka Cocktail – Craving a mixed Vodka drink? Mix healthy green juices with vodka for a balanced mixed drink.
2 ounces pineapple juice
½ ounce lime juice
½ ounce kale juice
1 ounce vodka
Fresh wedges of pineapple
Mix all ingredients in a glass with ice. Decorate with a wedge of pineapple.
Vegan Eggnog – In the mood for an old-fashioned eggnog? Try this cholesterol-free recipe that gives you extra protein and fiber that a traditional drink won’t – without sacrificing any flavor.
2 cups Califia Farms Almond Milk Holiday Nog
1 cup cold water
10 ounce extra-firm sprouted tofu
1/2 cup coconut nectar
1.5 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup rum or brandy (optional)
Blend all ingredients until smooth in a high-speed blender. Enjoy!
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About Alina Z.
Alina Z., aka “The Green Goddess,” is a certified holistic health coach, detox specialist and raw-food chef (she conducts occasional classes at Whole Foods in Boca). Prior to moving to Florida, Alina hosted her own TV show in Maryland—“Entertaining A to Z”—for people who didn’t have time to cook but wanted to eat healthy. Catch one of her web episodes at eHow.com, visit Alina’s website at alinaz.com, or follow her on Facebook (facebook.com/CoutureFood) or Twitter (@CoutureFood). The Green Goddess blog runs every other Wednesday at bocamag.com.
