If you love mocktails, you know you’re not missing out by skipping the alcohol. Layers of flavor, fancy glasses, and bright garnishes are all part of the mocktail experience-and that’s exactly how it should be. “Make it something you can look forward to drinking!” says TLMN contributor and Good Housekeeping Nutrition Director Stefani Sassos, RD.
And it turns out the benefits of mocktails go far beyond just avoiding alcohol: “Mocktails are a sneaky hack to stay hydrated,” says Stefani. She adds: “They’re also a great opportunity to get creative and try new ingredients to add both flavor and nutrition to your drink.”
That means superfoods that you may equate with smoothies or overnight breakfasts can take your mocktail up a notch. Bonus: they’re likely already in your refrigerator or pantry. Stefani’s one caveat is to keep a check on sugar: “Look for lower-sugar options when possible and if you can make them at home, you’ll know exactly what you’re consuming.”
Here, Stefani shares her 5 ingredients to make mocktails even more of a magical elixir:
Mocktail Superfood: Pomegranate Arils (aka Seeds)
Not only are they packed with antioxidants and flavor, but pomegranate arils can add a beautiful vibrant component to your mocktail. Add a splash of 100% pomegranate juice for flavor and add a few pomegranate arils to your drink. You can even make pomegranate juice ice cubes and add a few pomegranate arils to the tray for a fun twist.
Mocktail Superfood: Ginger Root
Fresh ginger root can add the perfect amount of warmth and spice to any drink. Plus, it’s rich in antioxidants and can combat bloating. A little goes a long way!
Mocktail Superfood: Hibiscus Tea
Not only does it bring a colorful hue to a unique mocktail, but hibiscus tea is fragrant, fruity and refreshing. It’s also loaded with antioxidants and has health benefits from lowering blood pressure to reducing cholesterol levels. Combine iced hibiscus tea with a sparkling water of your choice, lime and any other favorite fruity ingredients.
Mocktail Superfood: Cinnamon Stick
Add the perfect amount of warmth and spice with a full cinnamon stick. It amps up the presentation factor and also adds a ton of flavor, perfect for mocktails in the colder months. Cinnamon too is rich in antioxidants and compounds that can fight inflammation in the body.
Mocktail Superfood: Basil
My favorite herb for mocktails is mint since it’s so refreshing, but don’t sleep on basil. It’s wonderfully green and slightly sweet. It works great with berries and citrus fruits for your favorite unique twist on a mocktail. Basil has both anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties too.
Want to start with an easy recipe? This is one of Stefani’s go-to combos because it’s both hydrating and simple.
- 12 oz lime seltzer
- 4 oz 100% pomegranate juice over ice.
- Garnish with pomegranate arils, lime wedges, and a sprig of fresh mint.
To learn more about Stefani Sassos you can visit the Good Housekeeping website or follow her on Instagram at @stefanisassos
For more on mocktails from The Local Moms Network:
Meet a Mom: Deb Podlogar of Mocktail Mom
