As we close out the first week of 2024, how are you doing? Have you made and broken any resolutions? The start of a new year is often seen as a time to make resolutions, but a more casual approach can be to look at it as a chance to try something new. If you try something and enjoy it enough to make it a habit, great. Trying something new can be a less stressful way to frame changes than making a resolution where it can feel like the only possible outcomes are success or failure. Each week this month we will dig into one wellness trend and share our take on whether it is worth trying. This week we start with mocktails.
What are mocktails?
Mocktail recipes are everywhere you look as people kick off the new year with “Dry January.” So, what exactly makes a drink a mocktail? Think of a mocktail as a drink that was crafted to be a delicious and attractive alternative to traditional cocktails (without the alcohol). Unlike “virgin” or “zero proof” versions of typical cocktails that simply have the alcohol omitted, mocktails are designed to be alcohol-free from the start.
Benefits of mocktails
Do you have friends or family who will question your health or sanity if they see you without a drink at dinner? Are you a woman who doesn’t want to be questioned if you are pregnant every time there isn’t a glass of wine in your hand at happy hour? Then mocktails might provide the perfect cover. Jokes aside, there are benefits to drinking mocktails. For starters, there are definite health benefits to consuming less alcohol. Mocktails can serve as a lower sugar alternative to traditional soft drinks. Some ingredients used in mocktails for flavor also offer health benefits – like berries, ginger or herbs. And of course the benefits to being well hydrated are well established.
Bottom line: Try it!
We think mocktails are worth trying and with so many possible combinations you’ll be sure to find some that you enjoy. Start with a good base. Sparkling water or unsweetened teas work well to keep sugar down. Mix in fresh and flavorful ingredients. Herbs that add flavor to cocktails like mint, basil and rosemary can bring a similar twist to mocktails. Berries and citrus introduce flavor and color. Even vegetables do well in mocktails – cucumbers, tomatoes or peppers for some heat. If you come up with a winning combination be sure to give it a name!
Next week we’ll look at protein trends. Until then, check out these mocktail recipes.
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