Holiday Party Calorie Counter

December 01, 2011
Credit: Photo: Randy Mayor
No point having a Scrooge-ish disposition about holiday indulging. But knowing where the calories lie doesn't hurt, either.
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Party Time Calories

Credit: Photo: Randy Mayor
With the holidays upon us, a cocktail party is more than likely in the near future for many of us. But, when it comes time to spread a little cheer, don't throw those healthy eating habits to the wind. Word to the wise: Not all cocktails and hors d'oeuvres are created equal. For example, our Cranberry Mimosa is a mere 100 calories and a rich cup of egg nog is more than four times that amount clocking in at 450 calories per 6 fl. oz. Alas, don't let the stats get you down. Eating smart during the holidays doesn't mean you need to steer clear of the party spread. Armed with your cocktail party calorie knowledge, you'll be able to make wise choices and, who knows, maybe even indulge a little.
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Wrapped Asparagus

Credit: Photo: Randy Mayor
View Recipe: Phyllo-Wrapped Asparagus with Prosciutto

A healthy vegetable baked with crisp phyllo and a bit of savory prosciutto.

3 spears: 59 calories

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Cranberry Mimosa

Credit: Photo: Randy Mayor

Bubbly with a splash of cranberry juice.

 

100 calories per 5 fl. oz.

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Gin & Tonic

Credit: Photo: Randy Mayor
Sugary tonic water contributes 1/3 of this cocktail's calories.

138 calories per 5.5 fl. oz.

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Antipasto Platter

Credit: Photo: Randy Mayor
Festive indeed, but a salty choice. Nearly 700mg of sodium in just 2 olives and an ounce of salami (about 3 slices).

144 calories

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Dipped Pretzels

Credit: Photo: Randy Mayor
View Recipe: Peanut Butter and Chocolate Dipped Pretzels

Sweet, slightly salty, and satisfying, with some filling fiber in the honey-wheat pretzels.

3 pretzel sticks: 135 calories

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Manhattan

Credit: Photo: Randy Mayor
Bourbon, bitters, and sweet vermouth—nearly all the calories from alcohol.

166 calories per 3 fl. oz.

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Sun-Dried Tomato Palmiers

Credit: Photo: Randy Mayor
View Recipe: Sun-Dried Tomato Palmiers

Olives and sun-dried tomatoes in buttery, puffy pastry.

2 palmiers: 168 calories

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Classic Cosmo

Credit: Photo: Randy Mayor
Sweetened orange liqueur carries half the caloric weight—more than the vodka or cranberry splash.

223 calories per 4 fl. oz.

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Sangria

Credit: Photo: Randy Mayor
Wine and brandy, dressed with sugar and fruit juices, which add 25% more calories.

260 calories per 8 fl. oz.

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Salty Mixed Nuts

Credit: Photo: Randy Mayor
Though full of good fats, a handful here and there can add up fast.

½ cup: 407 calories

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Cheese and Crackers

Credit: Photo: Randy Mayor
This party favorite—just a few pieces of cheese on crackers—can become meal-sized in no time.

420 calories

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Eggnog

Credit: Photo: Randy Mayor
The nog isn't the calorie culprit here, contributing only about 12% of the calories. The rest is eggs, spiced cream, and nearly an entire day's worth (20g) of saturated fat.

450 calories per 6 fl. oz.

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