Summer may be a great time to get outside and enjoy the sun, but all that time outdoors can be draining. In those moments when you’re exhausted from the heat, it’s vital to have the right food choices to replenish your mind and body with everything they need.
During those sweltering days, having nutrient-dense foods and lots of options of drinks for hydration on hand are the keys to staying healthy and energized. Your options will keep you feeling cool and comfy as the temperatures rise and you won’t have to worry about dehydration or malnutrition while having fun outside.
If you’re figuring out what to add to your list for delicious and healthy summer snacks, you can get some inspiration from some of our favorites below!
Delicious Snacks & Drinks for Summer
1. Watermelon
Nothing screams “summer” like watermelon does! Watermelon can be seen as a double whammy because not only is it packed full of nutrients like potassium, Vitamin A, C, B6, and antioxidants, but it’s also low fat and very water-densei. You’ll be able to refill all the nutrients your body is lacking while staying hydrated.
2. Iced tea
Tea on its own is known to reduce the risk of major issues like heart attacks, stroke, and cardiovascular disease and more. When you add ice, lemon, or even a little bit of sweetener to it, you have an extremely refreshing drink that isn’t afraid to fight back against the bad stuff in your body!
There are so many options for tea such as black, green, white, and oolong, so you’ll always be able to try something new. You can even make it a habit to add fresh fruit and herbs to your iced teas over the summer to mix your flavors up a bit.
3. Popsicles and Ice Cream
Popsicles and ice cream are even tastier when it’s hot outside, and can help satisfy your sweet tooth. When shopping for these frozen treats, r aim for the options made with real fruit and quality ingredients (the fewer ingredients the better!). If you have the ability to, you can even make your own ice cream and popsicles at home with things like yogurt, fresh fruit, and fresh juice.
4. Deviled Eggs or Egg Salad
Eggs are a fantastic source of protein and are full of many necessary vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, D, E, B6, and B12. To make these delicious picnic snacks healthier, try swapping mayonnaise with Greek yogurt!
5. Berries
Summer berries like raspberries and blueberries are another great, tasty way to get in antioxidants and vitamins. These choices are low in calories and high in healthy fiber and Vitamin C, and can also help prevent cardiovascular disease, diabetes and boost brain function.
6. Salads
Salads don’t have to be boring! If you fill a salad with the right foods and toppings, you can have a filling, nutritious meal that doesn’t leave you feeling sluggish after a long, summer day. Here are some great add-ins for salads:
- Eggs
- Chicken
- Croutons
- Tortilla Strips
- Corn
- Bell Pepper
- Cranberries
- Strawberries
Remember: with salads, anything goes!For some ideas to get you started check out these recipes: 63 Summer Salads You’ll Be Making For Every Barbecue.
Treat Yourself the Healthy Way
Just because the hot summer days are rough doesn’t mean your snack options have to be also! Besides the foods and drinks on this list, there are so many other options out there to add to your diet so you can keep yourself feeling good during the hot months. There’s no doubt that once you prioritize your hydration and food choices, you’ll be able to breeze through the heat.
For more information on summer food ideas check out these resources:
