Summer is really heating up and our schedules are filling up with events and activities. Keeping yourself and your family on track with healthy goals can be a little difficult this time of year. But we can make it a little easier by planning out some quick summer snacks. You can even make it a family activity by working together and delegating tasks that are age appropriate.
Getting kids involved in the kitchen at a young age can help them make healthier choices, improve reading and math skills and even build confidence. Try some of these quick and easy summer snacks that are sure to be crowd pleasers.
Five Hy-Vee dietitian-approved simple summer snacks:
Mini pizzas (https://www.hy-vee.com/recipes-ideas/recipes/hawaiian-mini-pizzas)
Making pizzas at home can be a fun activity for the whole family. Using whole-wheat English muffins as the base, each mini pizza can be made to your individual preference.
Trail mix (https://www.hy-vee.com/recipes-ideas/recipes/dried-fruit-trail-mix)
Trail mix makes a great summer snack option. You can buy it pre-made or create your own mix with your favorite ingredients. Pick out your favorite nuts, dried fruit and/or cereal and mix them together for a nutrient-packed and tasty on-the-go snack.
Energy bites (https://www.hy-vee.com/recipes-ideas/recipes/g-rad-no-bake-bites)
Energy bites are little balls of fun! Combine your favorite nut butter with oats, nuts, fruit, sweetener or chocolate chips for a fun and easy snack that you can toss into any bag. You can even mix in some protein powder for an extra nutrient boost.
Smoothie (https://www.hy-vee.com/recipes-ideas/recipes/spinach-smoothie)
Smoothies are a great summer snack option and a good way to get in some extra fruits and veggies. Combine your favorite frozen fruit and vegetables with yogurt or milk for a cool punch of vitamins and minerals.
Fruit jellies (https://www.hy-vee.com/recipes-ideas/recipes/fruit-jellies)
Fruit jellies make a great snack for people of all ages. All you need to make them is your favorite fruit and some agave nectar. Make this healthier version of a fruit snack for the kids or your own lunch box.
The summer season can be a busy time of the year, so having planned snacks ready to go can make your week a little easier. Planning and prepping snacks that contain protein and fiber can help keep the whole family satisfied as you are all running from one event to the next. Having planned snacks will also make you less likely to stop for something on the road. Enjoy your summer and your snacks by introducing some of these ideas into your routine.
Recipes source: Hy-vee.com
The information is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice.
