On busy summer days and hot summer nights, food can make things fun. Ice cream treats, slushies, hot dogs and potato salad are often staples of summer. Although all foods can fit into your diet, try to make a few substitutions this summer for a healthy balance.
Sweet Summer Treats
The ice cream truck is around the corner, but there are other treats to consider. Try fresh fruit or low-calorie Jell-O topped with a spoonful of whipped cream, or make your own slushy with your favorite low-calorie drink mix. These can be delicious treats and are a lot lower in sugar. When you indulge in sweet treats, be mindful of your portion size and enjoy in moderation.
Chunky Peach Popsicles
Source: EatingWell.com
Ingredients:
- 1.25 pounds ripe peaches (3-4 medium peaches), halved and pitted
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup sugar, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp. vanilla extract
Directions:
Coarsely chop peaches in a food processor. Transfer one cup of the chunky peaches to a medium bowl. Add lemon juice, orange juice and sugar to taste (depending on the sweetness of the peaches) to the food processor. Puree until smooth. Add to the bowl with the chunky peaches and stir in vanilla.
Divide the mixture among 12 two-oz. or eight three-oz. freezer pop molds (or small paper cups). Freeze until they begin to set, about one hour. Insert frozen-treat sticks and freeze until completely firm, about one hour or more.
Blueberry Yogurt Smoothie
If you are looking for a creamy treat instead of a milkshake, try this!
Source: SparkRecipes.com
Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups fat-free natural plain yogurt
- 1 package frozen blueberries
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup no-pulp 100% natural orange juice
Directions:
- Put all ingredients into a blender. Liquify and add more orange juice if the consistency is too thick. It comes out a beautiful purple color.
Summer Sides
Summer cookouts can be a great way to gather with friends. However, the calories in many traditional side dishes can add up quickly. If you’re going to a cookout, bring a dish that fits into your diet or preferred way of eating. A side of veggies and dip or a colorful salad can be easy and delicious swaps.
Low-Carb “Cauliflower” Potato Salad
Source: Delish.com
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into small bite-sized pieces
- 3 hardboiled eggs, chopped
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, finely chopped
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp. red wine vinegar
- Juice of half a lemon
- 1 tbsp. Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup plus 2 tbsp. thinly sliced scallions
- 1/4 cup plus 2 tbsp. chopped dill
- 1 tsp. paprika
- 4 Romaine lettuce leaves
Directions:
Steam cauliflower until tender-crisp, about five minutes. Transfer to a large bowl and let cool slightly.
Add mayonnaise, yogurt, pickles, onion, vinegar, lemon juice, mustard, salt and pepper. Toss to combine, ensuring the cauliflower is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning. Fold in 1/3 cup each of scallions and dill. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for two hours.
When ready to serve, sprinkle paprika and remaining herbs over the salad. Lay lettuce leaves on a platter and scoop salad on top.
Whatever your summer plans may be, take this summer to sit back, relax, and eat healthy! Share your recipes for delicious summer treats below.
