If you think like I do, then cold and creamy or fruity and icy are the words that describe your summer snacks. I am a fan of ice cream. When I say fan, what I mean is, I like to face plant into a big bowl of ice creamy goodness! While it is great to enjoy those pleasures from time to time, there are some super great alternatives for nice, cool, summery snacking. So, if you want to watch your sugar intake (or your children's), you need a dairy-free alternative, or you just want to be able to eat something cool and delicious without feeling like you've blown your diet, read on! I've got a few ideas that will keep you cool and healthy this summer!
First up, popsicles! Who doesn't love a popsicle on a hot day? They are refreshing and bring about pleasant thoughts of childhood. Here are a few great ways to improve the old fashioned frozen sugar pops. Grab some popsicle molds and get creative! Don't forget the sticks, too!
- Choose your favorite fruits and combine them with coconut water in your molds. When they are done, you have a healthy, fruity popsicle that is great for hydration too!
- Banana & avocado may seem weird but they are great frozen together! Just blend a ripe banana, a ripe avocado, and half a cup of greek yogurt, plain or vanilla. Pour into molds, freeze, and prepare to be amazed!
- For a healthier version of those amazing Flintstone orange push pops, try this: 1 cup OJ, 1 cup full fat coconut milk (don't worry, fat is NOT your enemy), 3 tbsp honey, ¼ tsp orange extract, ½ tsp vanilla extract. Whisk together, pour into molds, freeze, and enjoy a trip back to your childhood.
"But, I want ice cream", you may be saying. Indeed, I do too! Try a few of these out to tame the ice cream beast!
- 2 words: "Nice cream". If you haven't had this, it is life changing! You will need 3-4 ripe bananas and a food processor. Slice the bananas and freeze them for a few hours. Throw them in the food processor. After a few minutes they will turn into a creamy delicious soft serve. Throw in anything that you want: cocoa powder, honey, cinnamon, PB, coconut flakes...the sky is the limit. You can make it as fruity or as chocolatey as you want.
- You can also try this with frozen pineapple and frozen banana for a bit of a Dole Whip knockoff. Just add vanilla extract in the food processor while the pineapple and banana are making their rounds!
And for the "other summery goodness category" I encourage you to get creative! Get your kids in the kitchen to help. (Or your spouse or your dogs!) Make some of these ahead of time and pull them out of the freezer when you need a cold snack.
- Chocolate dipped fruit is always a winner. Choose your favorite fruit, dip it in dark chocolate, and stick it in the freezer. Perfect!
- Freeze some grapes or blueberries for an easy, quick, refreshing snack.
- Dip fruit, nuts, or granola in your favorite yogurt and freeze. Throw them on top of some "Nice cream" or straight in your mouth!
These are just a few healthy alternatives to keep you feeling healthy and cool this summer. Let us know which ones are your favorite. Share some of your favorite recipes with us in the comments section. We would love to hear from YOU!
Happy summer snacking!
Natalie Lurie
natalie@guidingfitness.com
No comments:
Post a Comment