Snacking seems to be our favorite summer past-time, whether sitting around the pool or lounging on the beach, traveling, or just having fun; snacking keeps us going.
The weather naturally draws us outdoors; which creates more time to enjoy all the activities of summer. We shun the kitchen and look for something quick to snack on. Our schedules are jam-packed as we make wonderful memories of family and friends.
Our problem is trying to find healthy snack options for ourselves and our family.
We have all this summer produce that we enjoy; watermelon, juicy cantaloupe, peaches and berries galore that are bursting with flavor and make delicious summer treats.
The kitchen is the last place I want to be during the summer, which is precisely why I commit to choosing a few simple healthy snacks for the grandkids (and myself) as we are out and about and rotate them through the summer season. Healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated, and a quick snack doesn’t have to be a bag of potato chips. It can be much, much more delicious…
Here are a few of my favorites…
Fruit Kabobs
Slide any of your favorite fruits on a kabob stick and you’ve got a portable snack with no guilt. Some delicious summer fruit include: blackberries, cherries, strawberries, and melons. All of these are excellent choices for fruit kabobs.
Apple Donuts
No, not really a donut (sorry) — but it’s quite delicious. Slice apples into rounds that resemble a donut and top with your favorite nut butter. You can even make a sandwich out of it by putting the nut butter between two slices of apple rounds.
Cucumber Rolls
Thinly slice cucumbers into long slices that you can then use to roll toppings inside. Use toppings such as tuna salad, cherry tomatoes, guacamole, whatever your heart desires. These are great little bite-sized snacks for when hunger strikes.
Energy Bites
There are an endless amount of energy ball recipes you can choose from. They typically involve almond butter, raw cacao powder, granola, and dates. Energy balls are a perfect little snack to carry along, and with the cacao in it, it tastes like an absolute treat. Two or three energy bites later, and you’re most certain to be tied over until dinner.
Celery, Nut butter & Grapes
An oldie but a goodie. You can bring along celery sticks with almond butter on the side for dipping, or you can fill the inside of your celery stick with almond butter and chopped grapes. It’s always a crowd pleaser.
Preparation is the biggest factor in eating healthy, in my opinion. If you have healthy food around (and the absence of junk food), you’ll make healthy decisions. Setting yourself up for success is the biggest gift you can give yourself and your family, so make a plan each week of what healthy snacks (and meals) you’ll have ready for a moments notice, and enjoy your time living and enjoying your life!
Don’t forget to stay hydrated while enjoying your summer activities.
Skip the unhealthy drink options typically offered at outdoor events and load your water bottles with fruit infused water.
Here’s some summer fruit infused water ideas.
