Healthy mocktails could help you ring in the new year safely

In just a few hours we will be ringing in a brand new decade, surrounded by loved ones, great friends and delicious food and drinks — both alcoholic and non-alcoholic alike.  

Hats off to the designated drivers who chose to go alcohol free and help get their friends and loved ones home this holiday season. 

In years past, being the designated driver meant an evening of sugary juice filled mocktails, caffeinated colas or ginger ale.  But according to the Washington Post a new era of moderation seems to be upon us, with health-conscious Americans drinking less.  In fact, the Washington Post reports that 30% of Americans do not consume alcohol at all and an additional 30% consume two drinks or less per week. 

The food and beverage industry has responded with non-alcoholic beers, wines and spirits, and zero-proof cocktails taking center stage on many drink menus, making it easier and more enjoyable than ever to go alcohol free at home or at holiday events. 

So, if you’re the holiday host, the designated driver or just going alcohol free for your own reasons this year, you’ll find options that are both satisfying and interesting.  Here’s to getting off to a healthier, safer new year with zero proof and zero fatalities.

We have found a couple of recipes that we think you’ll enjoy at your next party.

Zero-Proof Strawberry Mojito, from https://www.southernkitchen.com/recipes/drink/zero-proof-strawberry-mojito

Serves: Makes 2 drinks

Hands On Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

6 strawberries, sliced, plus more for garnish
6 lime rounds
2 springs fresh mint
1/2 ounce agave syrup or honey
Ice cubes
Strawberry or plain sparkling water, to top off the glass

Instructions

Divide the strawberries, lime rounds and mint between two glasses of your choice. Muddle the fruit until it releases its juices. Muddle in the agave. Fill the glass with ice cubes, then top with the sparkling water. With a long spoon, stir all of the ingredients together. Garnish with additional strawberries and enjoy immediately.

The Garden Sour, from: https://www.nytimes.com/2018/01/10/t-magazine/food/dryanuary-no-alcohol-cocktails.html

∙ 1 ½ ounces Seedlip Garden

∙ ½ ounce aquafaba

∙ ¼ ounce simple syrup

∙ ¼ ounce celery

∙ ½ ounce apple

∙ ¼ ounce ​lemon Nigella seeds garnish

Method: Pour all ingredients into a Boston shaker. Dry shake (without ice). Add ice (enough to fill small side of cocktail shaker) and shake until frothy. Double strain into an 8-ounce coupe using Hawthorne and mesh strainers. Garnish with Nigella seeds.

Remember, if you do choose to drink alcohol, to rely on a sober designated driver, or call a ride share service to help get you home safely.