More and more of us are opting for non-alcoholic drinks on a night out. And our new ‘drink-less’ attitude is leading to a change in, not only our diet, but our lifestyle habits, too. We’re ditching cocktails and clubs for non-alcoholic cocktails, super smoothies and yoga classes.
Easy mocktail recipe
This huge alcohol-free boom means no longer do you have to make do with a flat soda and radioactive-green lime cordial when staying sans booze. Try whipping up this super easy, yet delicious, tropical mocktail with a spicy kick; it’s the perfect non-alcoholic summer drink.
1. Pour 150ml of pineapple juice into a cocktail shaker; squeeze in ½ lime.
2. Add 1 chopped cayenne pepper, a handful of ice cubes and a handful of mint leaves.
3. Shake to mix well. Through a mini strainer, pour the mixture into a lowball glass filled with ice.
4. Using a teaspoon, spread a line of honey on the rim of the glass (or half the rim, if you prefer).
5. Cut a 2cm line lengthways through another cayenne pepper and add to the rim of the glass to garnish, along with a slice of lime. Serves one.
Must-have mocktail making kit
To treat your gang to a tasty non-alcoholic cocktail you can make at home, you’ll need to stock up on the following:
Cocktail shaker set
Go for a novelty shaker or invest in a solid hard-wearing one. It all depends on how seriously you take your shaking! And don’t forget a mini strainer. Make like the professionals and use this to avoid any lumps and pips in your drinks.
Our pick: LINEA cocktail collection 3-piece bar tool set, £25, House of Fraser
Cocktail bar tool set
For the complete mixologist look, kit yourself out with a specialized bar tool set – complete with everything from a stainless-steel strainer to ice tongs.
Out pick: Linea Cocktail Collection 5 piece bar tool gift set, £35, House of Fraser
Juicer or blender
Haven’t got the time to juice from scratch? Update your kitchen gadgets for super-quick mocktail making.
Our pick: Russell Hobbs Your Creations 2-in-1 jug blender 18995, £55, Debenhams
Glassware
Be prepped for both long and short mocktails, with a range of hi-ball, lo-ball and fancy cocktail glasses.
Our pick: Set of four cocktail glasses, £19.50, M&S
Serveware
Serve up your mocktails in style on a mirrored tray.
Our pick: Deco round mirror tray, £39.50, M&S
