" You can enjoy a cocktail with your meal. Just be smart about what you sip... "

When you're watching your waistline, alcoholic beverages can pack on the calories fast. Next time you belly up to the bar, consider this: A 10 oz. Long Island Iced Tea has as many calories as a McDonald's Big Mac!

That's not to say you can't enjoy a cocktail with your meal. Just be smart about what you sip ― and remember to balance out your meal with lean Protein and Slow Carbs. Here are some suggestions for cocktails that won't tip the scale.

If you like tequila, order: a margarita ― When made right, a margarita is one of the lower-calorie cocktails. The classic margarita recipe calls for tequila, lime juice and a splash of agave syrup or Cointreau. The key is to make sure the bartender doesn't use a sugary mixer when making your margarita. Mixers add unwanted calories, so ask the bartender to use fresh lime juice and a splash of simple syrup instead. Just as you might order a salad with dressing on the side, don't hesitate to make preparation requests when ordering a cocktail.

If you like vodka, order: a cosmopolitan ― Similar to a margarita, the beauty of a cosmo lies in its simplicity. The perfect cosmo is made from vodka, lime juice and a splash of cranberry juice ... nothing more. Altogether, these ingredients add up to about 150 calories.

If you like rum, order: a mojito ― Much like margaritas, many bartenders use mixers when making mojitos. To be safe, ask the server or bartender to stick with the original recipe: rum, mint, soda water, lime and a pinch of sugar.

If you like gin, order: a gimlet ― A gimlet is a tasty, simple cocktail for anyone looking to avoid unwanted calories. The basic recipe is gin mixed with lightly sweetened lime juice. You can make things more interesting by ordering a cucumber or basil gimlet.