Five Non-alcoholic Alternatives Perfect for Summer BBQs

Organising a barbecue isn’t easy, especially these days. It takes a lot of planning and you have to cater for a variety of people, from those who are veggie or vegan to those with special dietary requirements. However, getting it right can make for a real afternoon or evening to remember.

Today, you also need to think about the drinking options. More people than ever before are completely avoiding alcohol, whether it be as a result of going through alcohol addiction recovery in Essex, looking after health, both physical and mental, or it simply being preference. Thankfully, these days, there are plenty of non-alcoholic alternatives perfect for a summer barbecue too.

So, if you’re in the midst of planning one and want to make sure that everyone’s covered, then here are five excellent options to consider for your gathering...

Alcohol-Free Beers

In recent years, the quality of alcohol-free beer has improved dramatically, offering a taste that’s often remarkably close to the real thing. Many well-known breweries now produce alcohol-free or low-alcohol versions of their popular brews, making them widely available in supermarkets and pubs.

Brands like Lucky Saint, BrewDog’s Nanny State, and Heineken 0.0 are just a few examples of alcohol-free beers that provide the same crisp, refreshing flavour you’d expect from a traditional pint. These beers pair perfectly with grilled meats, veggie burgers, and all the classic BBQ sides, allowing non-drinkers to enjoy the social aspect of sharing a cold drink without the alcohol.

Sparkling Elderflower Presse

For a quintessentially British and beautifully fragrant option, sparkling elderflower presse is a fantastic choice. Made from elderflower extract, sugar, lemon juice, and sparkling water, this light and floral drink is both refreshing and sophisticated.

It can be served over ice with a slice of lemon or cucumber for an extra burst of flavour. Elderflower presse works wonderfully alongside summer salads, grilled fish, and lighter BBQ dishes, making it an elegant and versatile alternative for any guest.

Non-Alcoholic Cocktails (Mocktails)

Mocktails are an excellent way to bring a sense of occasion to a BBQ without any alcohol involved. With a bit of creativity, you can craft drinks that are just as exciting and flavourful as their alcoholic counterparts.

For example, a Virgin Mojito combines fresh mint, lime juice, sugar syrup, and soda water to create a zesty and cooling drink perfect for warm summer days. Alternatively, try a Nojito Strawberry Cooler by muddling fresh strawberries with lime and mint before topping up with sparkling water and ice.

Mocktails can be prepared in batches, allowing guests to serve themselves throughout the day, adding to the relaxed and sociable atmosphere of the BBQ.

Iced Herbal Teas

Iced herbal teas are not only refreshing but also offer a wide range of flavour options depending on your guests’ preferences. Flavours such as hibiscus, peppermint, chamomile, or rooibos can be brewed in advance, cooled, and served over ice with fresh fruit garnishes.

Hibiscus tea, in particular, offers a vibrant, tart flavour and a beautiful ruby red colour that looks stunning in a glass. Herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free and hydrating, making them an ideal choice for keeping cool and refreshed during long afternoons in the sun.

Kombucha

Kombucha, a fermented tea drink, has become increasingly popular for its unique flavour and potential health benefits. Slightly fizzy and mildly tangy, kombucha comes in a variety of flavours such as ginger, lemon, or berry blends.

It’s a great option for those who enjoy the complexity of an alcoholic drink but prefer to avoid alcohol. The slight fermentation gives kombucha a sophisticated edge, and it pairs well with BBQ favourites, from grilled vegetables to marinated meats. Additionally, its probiotic content may offer some digestive benefits, which can be a welcome addition to a hearty BBQ meal.