Published: May 5, 2016 | Updated: November 27, 2019
Who says the traditional Derby mint julep or Oaks lily cocktail has to contain alcohol? The Get Healthy team has mixed up a couple of alcohol-free, lower-calorie concoctions and shared our recipes for our favorite mocktails.
We’re not passing judgment on folks who consume alcohol.
However, keep in mind, alcoholic beverages, on average, contain about 150 calories each. These are mostly empty calories with little nutritional value, according to Maji Koetter-Ali, registered dietitian for Norton Weight Management Services.
“Alcohol also promotes fat storage and stimulates your appetite,” Koetter-Ali said. “And it causes more frequent urination, possibly leading to dehydration and loss of various nutrients, setting you up for a hangover.”
And, of course, drinking and driving never mix! So, why not try an alternative?
Apple Mint Julep
Crushed ice
One bunch fresh mint
1/3 cup apple juice
1/3 cup diet ginger ale
Crush a few sprigs of mint with the back of a spoon or a muddler. Fill a tumbler with crushed ice and top with the mint. Add the apple juice and ginger ale.
Peach Mint Julep
1/2 cup peach-infused tea*
1/8 cup diet ginger ale
Crush a few sprigs of mint with the back of a spoon or a muddler. Fill a tumbler with crushed ice and top with the mint. Add peach tea and ginger ale.
*To make infused tea, make iced tea as you normally would. While the tea is cooling, add slices of fresh or frozen peaches. Once the tea is at room temperature, transfer to the refrigerator.
Alcohol-free Lily
1/8 cup orange juice
1/3 cup light cranberry juice
1/8 cup lemonade or lemon-flavored water
Mix everything together and pour into a tumbler filled with crushed ice.
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