The Pink Zombie: all treats, no tricks

Spooky season is here, and this year, it’s showing up in pink.

The Pink Zombie is equal parts playful and refreshing, with tart lime, a splash of pineapple, botanical zero-proof gin and plenty of bubbles. But the real magic trick is dragon fruit powder. Also known as pitaya, the tropical fruit has a mild flavor often compared to kiwi and pear, while its brilliant pink-red hue gives this zero proof cocktail a naturally vivid color that brings a little Halloween spirit to every glass.

Shaken, poured over ice and topped with sparkling water and raspberries, it’s bright, fizzy and just a little theatrical. Consider it proof that your Halloween drink doesn’t need booze – or a bubbling cauldron – to bring a little spirit to the party.

Eat Fit Simple Syrup (makes approximately 1 cup)

In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Reduce to medium-high heat and add sweetener. Stir to dissolve and continue to heat for 10 minutes. Pour into a heat-safe glass container and refrigerate to chill. You can store the unused portion in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four weeks.

Combine lime juice, pineapple juice, Eat Fit Simple Syrup, zero proof gin, bitters and dragon fruit powder in a shaker tin. Add ice and shake vigorously.

Fill a hurricane glass with ice. Double-strain the mixture into the glass and top with sparkling water. Garnish with raspberries or another red fruit of your choice.

Nutrition per serving: 45 calories, 0 grams fat, 0 grams saturated fat, 10 mg sodium, 8 grams net carbs, 2 grams fiber, 5 grams sugar (0 grams added sugar), 1 gram protein. Gluten-free. Vegan. Low-carb.

Find this recipe and more in “CRAFT: The Eat Fit Guide to Zero Proof Cocktails,” available for purchase at local retailers or online at EatFitCookbook.com. Be sure to use promo code ADVOCATE at checkout for 10% off.

Molly Kimball, RD, CSSD, is a registered dietitian with Ochsner Health and founder of Ochsner’s Eat Fit nonprofit initiative. For more wellness content, tune in to Molly’s podcast, FUELED Wellness + Nutrition, and follow @MollykimballRD and @EatFitOchsner on social media. Email nutrition@ochsner.org to connect with Molly or schedule a consult with her team.

Email Molly Kimball at molly@mollykimball.com