Ho! Ho! Ho! It’s Santa time! He’s everywhere these days: his face, his sleigh, his big belly. Kris Kringle is known for many things, but being fit certainly isn’t one of them. We talked to a few friends who lamented the unhealthy elements that the most wonderful time of the year inevitably brings. These friends told us while they love the holiday spirit, they wish there were lighter, healthier options that wouldn’t weigh them down at every party. So we came up with Santa’s Skinny Pomtini. It’s packed with flavor but not with calories for our friends that are trying to watch it.
Here’s an important truth: fewer calories do NOT mean less flavor! We should know; we make amazing flavored sparkling water, and we don’t need unnecessary calories to do it. The Pomtini won out as a lighter cocktail option for a few reasons.
For one, pomegranate has a distinct sweetness perfect for cocktails. But it’s not too sweet. It doesn’t hurt that it’s loaded with antioxidants either. Secondly, we knew we could use the secret weapon: Mountain Valley Sparkling Blackberry Pom. This wonderful and pure stuff is like a cocktail mixer’s gift from the gods. It seriously goes with practically anything.
Lastly, we wanted a variation on the martini. Maybe just an excuse to pull out the martini glasses? Martini glasses beckon to be used for a special occasion or to call one into existence. They’re always fun and a sure way to deliver a festive presentation.
To get started, get yourself a bottle of good vodka, pomegranate juice, and of course Mountain Valley Sparkling Blackberry Pom. You’ll need a bit of orange juice, about 1 teaspoon per cocktail. We chose to just squeeze it right out of fresh orange. You’ll obviously get the best flavor this way, but if you’re in a bind and want to use the store-bought jug, no worries.
You’ll need lime and mint for garnish. And if you really want to set the bar high, you can add pomegranate seeds as well. This is a gorgeous touch, but we know that depending on where you live, you may not have access to fresh pomegranate. Don’t sweat it; with or without the seeds, this drink is a beauty.
Make this like you would a regular martini. Pour vodka, pomegranate juice, orange juice, sparkling water, and a bit of ice into your cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously and strain into martini glasses. Be sure to garnish with a chunky lime wedge for squeezing, and throw a mint leaf in there while you’re at it. Again, if you can get your hands on pomegranate seeds, they add a beautiful element.
Santa’s Skinny Pomtini
Ingredients (makes 2 servings)
- 2-3 ounces vodka
- ¼ cup Mountain Valley Sparkling Blackberry Pom
- ½ cup pomegranate juice
- 2 teaspoons orange juice
- Ice
- Lime and mint for garnish
- Pomegranate seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Add vodka, sparkling water, pomegranate juice, orange juice, and a bit of ice to cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously.
2. Strain into martini glasses and garnish with a chunky lime wedge and mint. Add pomegranate seeds as additional garnish if desired.
