Summer is the time for outdoor gatherings, barbecues, and refreshing cocktails. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or enjoying a picnic in the park, a delicious drink can enhance the experience.
But have you ever wondered how many calories are hiding in your favorite summer cocktails?.
Many popular summer cocktails are loaded with calories, sugar, and other unhealthy additives. While they may taste great, these drinks can derail your healthy eating habits and contribute to weight gain.
To help you make informed choices, we’ve compiled a graph of the 13 most popular summer drinks and their calorie content.
The Negroni
Starting off our list is the Negroni, a classic Italian cocktail made with equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. This bittersweet drink packs a punch with an average of 200 calories per serving.
While the Negroni is undeniably delicious, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation due to its calorie content.
The Pina Colada
Next up is the tropical favorite, the Pina Colada. Made with rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice, this creamy concoction can transport you to a beachside paradise. However, it comes with a hefty calorie count of around 350 calories per serving.
Indulge in this drink sparingly to keep your calorie intake in check.
The Mojito
A refreshing blend of rum, mint, lime juice, sugar, and soda water, the Mojito is a popular choice for many cocktail enthusiasts. However, the sweetness of this drink comes with an average calorie count of 220 per serving.
Opt for sugar-free alternatives or limit your consumption to maintain a balanced diet.
The Margarita
No summer party is complete without a Margarita. This tequila-based cocktail is usually made with lime juice, triple sec, and simple syrup. With an average calorie count of 250 per serving, the Margarita can quickly become a calorie bomb.
Consider opting for a lighter version or enjoy it as an occasional treat.
The Daiquiri
Another rum-based favorite, the Daiquiri is made with rum, lime juice, and sugar. This fruity drink can be a refreshing choice on a hot summer day. However, it can also contribute to your calorie intake, with an average of 230 calories per serving.
Moderation is key when enjoying this classic cocktail.
The Cosmopolitan
Made famous by the TV series “Sex and the City,” the Cosmopolitan is a vodka-based cocktail flavored with cranberry juice, lime juice, and triple sec.
While it may be a popular choice among cocktail enthusiasts, this drink contains an average of 215 calories per serving. Consider alternatives with lower-calorie options if you’re watching your waistline.
The Mojito
A refreshing blend of rum, mint, lime juice, sugar, and soda water, the Mojito is a popular choice for many cocktail enthusiasts. However, the sweetness of this drink comes with an average calorie count of 220 per serving.
Opt for sugar-free alternatives or limit your consumption to maintain a balanced diet.
The Strawberry Daiquiri
If you’re a fan of fruity flavors, the Strawberry Daiquiri might be your go-to summer drink. Made with rum, strawberries, lime juice, and sugar, this cocktail is a favorite among those with a sweet tooth.
However, its delectable taste comes with a calorie count of around 230 calories per serving. Enjoy it in moderation or explore lighter alternatives.
The Long Island Iced Tea
Despite its name, the Long Island Iced Tea doesn’t actually contain any tea. This potent mix of vodka, rum, tequila, gin, triple sec, lemon juice, and cola is beloved by many cocktail enthusiasts.
However, it’s also one of the highest-calorie drinks on our list, with an average of 280 calories per serving. Consider indulging in this drink sparingly.
The Mai Tai
Transport yourself to a tropical oasis with a Mai Tai. Made with rum, lime juice, orange liqueur, and almond syrup, this fruity cocktail is a favorite among beachgoers. However, it comes with a calorie count of approximately 260 calories per serving.
Keep an eye on your consumption to ensure it doesn’t sabotage your healthy goals.
The Moscow Mule
A popular choice for its refreshing taste, the Moscow Mule is a vodka-based cocktail mixed with ginger beer and lime juice.
However, the ginger beer used in this drink can contain a significant amount of sugar, leading to an average calorie count of 180 per serving. Consider opting for a light ginger beer or reducing the sugar content to enjoy this drink guilt-free.
The Gin and Tonic
A classic and timeless cocktail, the Gin and Tonic is a simple yet enjoyable summer drink. Made with gin, tonic water, and a splash of lime juice, this low-calorie option is a safe bet for those looking to watch their calorie intake.
With an average of 170 calories per serving, it’s a refreshing and guilt-free choice.
The Mojito
A refreshing blend of rum, mint, lime juice, sugar, and soda water, the Mojito is a popular choice for many cocktail enthusiasts. However, the sweetness of this drink comes with an average calorie count of 220 per serving.
Opt for sugar-free alternatives or limit your consumption to maintain a balanced diet.
The Sangria
Rounding off our list is a crowd-pleaser, the Sangria. This fruity wine-based cocktail is typically mixed with fresh fruits, brandy, and sometimes soda or juice.
While the calorie content can vary depending on the recipe, it usually ranges between 150-200 calories per serving. Enjoy this drink moderately to keep your summer indulgences in check.
While these 13 popular cocktails are delicious and refreshing, it’s essential to be mindful of their calorie content.
Indulging in these drinks occasionally is perfectly fine, but frequent consumption can quickly contribute to weight gain and affect your health goals. Consider opting for lighter alternatives or reducing the sugar content to enjoy your favorite summer cocktails guilt-free.