Many people like to indulge in the evening, whether it’s food or alcohol. However, that doesn’t have to mean eating filling food and high percentage alcohols that leave you feeling lethargic the following day.

If you’re looking to save the aforementioned for Friday and Saturday nights, then continue reading as we explore some food and drink ideas that strike a happy medium for weekday evenings.

Tennent’s Light Lager

Many people across Scotland enjoy cracking open a Tennent’s or two on a midweek evening, but can often feel a little worse for wear as a result.

Well, you can enjoy a gentler version of the lager (that still tastes great) by choosing Tennent’s Light Lager, which is 3.4%, a decrease from the regular version’s 4%.

In terms of alcohol content and overall feel, you can enjoy a staple lager, which is refreshing and pairs well with food, but doesn’t overpower your meal or evening.

Unfried Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip

Chicken tenders are a popular comfort food, but can often be fried, greasy, and ultimately, heavy.

A lighter oven baked version keeps that comfort, while also trimming away the grease and the calories.

Here are some preparation tips that can help you make lighter chicken tenders:

• Marinate the chicken strips in lemon juice, paprika, garlic, and a splash of olive oil for 20 to 30 minutes.
• Toss panko breadcrumbs with a teaspoon of olive oil before breading. This will help them crisp up in the oven.
• Bake your tenders on a wire rack, allowing them to heat evenly while staying crunchy on each side.

Serve with a Greek yoghurt honey mustard dip with equal parts of yoghurt and mustard and enough honey to balance out the sharp taste.

Nachos with Vegetables

Regular nacho dishes come with a mountain of cheese, but they can be both lighter and healthier.

Consider using a single layer of baked tortilla chips, which will ensure that every crisp gets flavour rather than becoming soggy.

Opt for sharp cheddar rather than a mild alternative because mature cheeses deliver more taste in smaller amounts, so you won’t need as much of it.

Add fresh toppings like black beans, diced tomatoes, and avocado.

A Citrus White Wine Spritz

A white wine spritz is another lighter alcohol, which is a great option for midweek evenings where you want to drink and still feel fresh the following day.

If you haven’t tried a white wine spritz before, here are some helpful tips:

• Use equal parts dry white wine and sparkling water to keep the flavour crisp and keep the drink balanced.
• Add fruit for some mild sweetness. Lemon can add brightness, orange offers depth, and lime can give spritz a sharper taste.
• If you want a sweet spritz, choose a wine with natural fruit notes so that you don’t have to add sugar.

Grilled Fish Tacos with Tangy Lime Slaw

Fish tacos are a tasty meal that feels much lighter than other popular options. They are packed with flavour without feeling heavy.

You can season the fish with cumin, lime, garlic powder, and salt. From there, grill it for three to four minutes on each side.

Build the slaw with shredded cabbage, lime juice, and a small amount of olive oil and salt. We recommend warming corn tortillas over a dry skillet to give them some smoky flexibility.

Enjoy Your New Food and Drink Options

Eating and drinking can be enjoyable without feeling heavy. We hope that these ideas will help you find a new range of healthy and nice food and alcohol options that don’t wear you out.

You’re all set! Start using our suggestions to broaden your horizons.