Hostess with the Mostess: Signature Drinks for Non-Drinkers

About Hostess with the Mostess

There’s been a lot of talk about creating a“signature cocktail” for your wedding reception; some of that talk has even come from me!



But don’t forget about the non-alcohol drinkers at your wedding as well. Having plenty of non-alcoholic drinks available is especially important if you’re having a summer or outdoor wedding, to keep people from getting dehydrated. An appealing and unusual non-alcoholic drink will ensure that everyone is included, and help keep your costs down.

Here are two great non-alcoholic drinks, one for summer, one for winter. For a summer wedding:

Traditional Moroccan Mint Tea

Ingredients:

10 sprigs fresh mint, plus extra for garnish


3 tsp green tea


3 tbsp sugar (or more to taste)


4 c. water

Directions:

Boil the water and pour a small amount in the teapot.

Add the mint, green tea and sugar to the teapot, then add the rest of the hot water.

Let brew for three minutes.



Fill a glass with tea, then pour it back in the pot. Repeat.

This helps to dissolve and distribute the sugar.

To serve, pour the tea into skinny glasses or tea cups, holding the teapot at a high distance above the glasses to create a little foam on the top of the tea.



Garnish with the remaining sprigs of mint. For a winter wedding:

Spicy Cranberry Punch

Ingredients:

1/2 cup red cinnamon candies


4 C. water

8 C. cranberry juice cocktail, chilled


6 oz. can frozen limeade concentrate


6 oz. can frozen orange juice concentrate

Directions

In small pan, melt candies in water and chill until cool. When ready to serve, combine candy liquid and fruit juices in punch bowl. Stir to dissolve. Makes 18, 5-oz. cups.

For more non-alcoholic drinks idea, come visit our recipe section.