by Karen Frazier

This may seem like an odd recipe for a blog called Recipes for My Kids. However, when I started it, my kids were children. Now they are adults, and this has been where I keep all my low-carb, gluten-free, and paleo recipes. So – I’m not suggesting that you offer this to non-adult children, I promise!

I enjoy the occasional cocktail, and one of the things that frustrates me about going out for a drink is that most cocktails have sugary mixers, use sugary liqueurs, or sneak in simple syrup which is made from, of course, sugar. While some bars do have lower carb cocktails (or you can always order a straight shot of liquor or a glass of wine), when you’re in the mood for a mixed drink on a low-carb diet, you need a go-to drink. Vodka-soda-lime is my go-to cocktail, and it’s just as easy to make at home as it is in a bar. It’s also delicious

All the ingredients are in the title, and it also serves as a tasty starter for other sugar-free, low-carb cocktails. Below, you’ll find some variations on the vodka-soda-lime theme, as well as a tasty infused vodka you can make, and the cocktail you can make from it.

Basic Vodka Soda Lime

• 1 shot vodka
• 3 ounces soda
• 1 lime wedge
• Ice

Combine all ingredients in a glass, squeezing the lime wedge into the glass before adding it.

Tarragon and Orange Cocktail

• 2 sprigs fresh tarragon, plus extra for garnish
• 1 shot vodka
• 3 ounces soda
• 1 orange wedge
• Ice

1. In a cocktail shaker, crush the tarragon leaves lightly to release the aroma.
2. Add the vodka and soda. Shake to mix well.
3. Strain into a glass with ice. Squeeze in the orange juice and add the wedge.
4. Garnish with a sprig of fresh tarragon.

Lime Basil Cocktail

• 2 mint sprigs plus one for garnish
• 2 drops liquid stevia
• 1 shot vodka
• 3 ounces soda
• 1 lime wedge
• Ice

1. In a glass, crush the mint leaves using a muddler.
2. Add the liquid stevia, vodka, soda, lime, and ice.
3. Stir to mix.
4. Garnish with additional mint leaves.

Caraway, Mint, and Cinnamon Infused Vodka

• 750 mL vodka
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 3 mint sprigs

1. Add the cinnamon, caraway, and mint to the vodka.
2. Seal the bottle and let sit in a cool, dry place for up one month, shaking occasionally.
3. Strain solids from the vodka and seal in a bottle.

Cinnamon, Caraway, and Mint Infused Vodka Cocktail

• 1 shot caraway, mint, and cinnamon infused vodka
• 1 orange wedge
• 2 drops liquid stevia
• 4 ounces soda
• Ice

Combine all ingredients in a glass, squeezing the orange wedge into the glass before adding it.

 
photo credit: A Tonic for the Soul… via photopin (license)