If you’re following a fit and active lifestyle and making healthy food and drink choices, then there can are many temptations that are dangled in your way – especially so at this time of year. Mince pies left in the kitchen at work lure us in with their crumbly pastry deliciousness and there are often party invites galore in December. 

We might be really good at avoiding the seductiveness of the mince pies and the tempting array of calorie laden treats and lunches, buffets and events. But when it comes to alcohol, it can be easy to lose track of how many we’ve had, and therefore how many empty calories we’ve also had. Especially there’s waiting staff or an overzealous friend who keeps on topping our glasses up. 

If we’re looking to avoid alcohol altogether, or limit our intake, we might feel a little underwhelmed by the non-alcoholic options often on offer. Fizzy drinks, diet or otherwise, orange juice or sparkling water is usually as exciting as it gets. 

But never fear, we’re here! Our mocktail recipes go down a treat, and no one will ever be left missing alcohol. What’s more, they’re low calorie too. So, if you’re hosting, or you have some influence over the drinks being served at the next soirée, here’s all you need …

• Perfect for the time of year with its warming spices (and the fact that it’s warmed up before serving) is this – introducing the OYG Mulled Cranberry Punch, ta-dah! It can be made in advance and warmed through when your guests arrive and the beauty is, it can be enjoyed by all members of the family, including the kids (just make sure it’s not too hot). 
• Did somebody say Bellini? We did! Admittedly, this Rhubarb Bellini is made using standard alcoholic prosecco (or if you’re feeling indulgent, champagne). But it can easily be made using a non-alcoholic white wine mixed half and half with sparkling water or soda water. It’s super refreshing and the rhubarb adds a grown up touch of class. 
• Non-alcoholic gins are becoming commonplace now on the menus of bars and restaurants, you just might need to check beforehand. These alcohol free gin alternatives range from standard dry gin inspired to small batch, aromatic and herby craft faux gins. They can be used in place of all gin based cocktails including the faithful G&T to the ever so sassy Tom Collins. 
• Not technically a cocktail, although completely delicious with an Indian or Asian inspired meal, this Mango, Coconut and Cardamon Lassi is superb. Originating from the Punjab region, a lassi is traditionally made using yoghurt and subtle spices. Our version is made using coconut milk and is therefore suitable for vegans. Despite it being made with coconut milk, it comes in at less than 150 calories! 
• OK, so this Cranberry Mojito is also alcoholic since it contains rum, but these days alcohol free rum alternatives and rum inspired cane syrups are everywhere online. Just Google “non alcoholic alternative to rum” to see for yourself. Dress this mocktail up with mint leaves, crushed ice and some cranberries and it’ll certainly look the part. 

Cheers!