Joyous occasions call for toasting friends and family. And if a muffin top is not the gift you wanted this Christmas, you can fight the bulge while still enjoying the party, by way of low-cal libations. “All cocktails must begin with a fantastic foundation, and Belvedere vodka is the perfect base for a variety of them,” explains Claire Smith, head of the brand’s spirit creation and mixology. “It has a natural sweetness and a soft, smooth texture that requires zero sugar, additives or enhancers.” Her recipes help take the regret out of the holiday revelry. So push the eggnog to the side in favor of these drinks, which will lead to a slimmer waistline.

1|Green tea-ni Thyme martini

serves 1

Ingredients

2 ounces Belvedere Lemon Tea

3/4 ounce lemon juice

3/4 ounce green tea syrup (ingredients, recipe below)

3 sprigs fresh thyme

Directions

For green tea syrup, combine cup of sugar with cup of green tea in saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring, until sugar dissolves. Cool. Press two thyme sprigs in base of cocktail shaker. Add remaining ingredients; shake hard over ice. Strain into a martini glass, and garnish with last thyme sprig.

Read more in the December 2014 issue of EBONY magazine.