Holiday Party Calorie Counter

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

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

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

Photo: Randy Mayor

Bubbly with a splash of cranberry juice.

100 calories per 5 fl. oz.

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Gin & Tonic

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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Party Time Calories

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Wrapped Asparagus

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Cranberry Mimosa

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Gin & Tonic

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Antipasto Platter

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Dipped Pretzels

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Manhattan

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Sun-Dried Tomato Palmiers

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Classic Cosmo

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Sangria

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Salty Mixed Nuts

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Cheese and Crackers

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Eggnog

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