Summer is full of fun activities, but socializing in the sun doesn’t have to mean breaking a sweat when you host a backyard barbecue or join a picnic in the park.
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Pediatric nutritionist Diana Schnee, RD, LD, shares some quick and easy (and healthy!) summer recipes to use this season that will not only wow your guests, but leave them coming back for more.
How to stay healthy in the heat
Summer is a state of mind that allows you to explore new recipes and trends while also respecting healthy habits.
It’s also important to stay hydrated, stay active, and plan what you’ll eat or bring before a social gathering, especially if you’re not sure what’s on the menu.
So when you slather yourself in high-calorie sauces, sip sugary drinks, or snack on salty foods, remember you’re in control. This summer, try adding a few more grilled fish, veggies, and whole fruits to your diet and explore other sides that offer health benefits everyone can enjoy.
“Children are more likely to want to try new foods outside of their usual environment, so even if your child doesn’t normally enjoy a particular fruit or vegetable, encourage them to try any produce or new foods that are available in social situations,” suggests Schnee.
“Or, get the kids to help prepare new colorful dishes and bring them to school. Summer is also a great time to find fresh, local produce at farmers’ markets!”
Easy Summer Recipes
The trick to making these summer recipes is to use flavorful, healthy ingredients without sacrificing your own sense of satisfaction.
Here are seven recipes based on easy and healthy summer meals.
Grilled Chicken Pesto Pizza
Burgers aren’t the only thing on the menu this summer: This pizza recipe combines a great source of protein with grilled tomatoes, red peppers and pesto sauce for a delicious, not-too-heavy main course.
Grilled vegetable kebabs
If you’re someone who is easily at a loss for what to serve with your side dish, then this recipe is for you. Grilled veggie kebabs are a versatile side dish that can be combined with whatever ingredients are in season throughout the summer. By sourcing produce from your local farmers market, you’ll have all the ingredients you need for this classic recipe.
Sea bream tacos with mango salsa
Fish is a great source of protein if you’re trying to cut back on red meat, and this recipe combines snapper, a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, with chopped mango, red pepper, romaine lettuce, herbs and spices to create a light, refreshing lunch.
Easy Chicken Salad
Tired of grilling? No problem. This refreshing chicken salad combines diced boiled chicken breasts with Greek yogurt, cranberries, apples, celery, honey and fresh rosemary for a quick and easy lunch that’s packed with protein and flavor. Serve it on its own, on a bed of lettuce or as a sandwich on whole wheat bread for the perfect picnic.
Lemon Dill Shrimp and Avocado Salad
Packed with vitamins, minerals and healthy fats, avocados have many benefits, and this salad puts them front and center by pairing them with bay shrimp cooked in a delicious dill sauce that’s creamy and will please any palate.
Baked Peaches with Yogurt, Honey and Mint
Grilled fruit brings out all of its amazing flavor, and in this recipe, grilled peaches are tossed with olive oil, nonfat Greek yogurt, a little honey, and fresh mint leaves for a slightly sweet, but not overly sweet, dessert.
Pineapple Raspberry Popsicles
Kids (and adults) will love this finishing touch because these fresh fruit popsicles are free from the artificial sweeteners and tons of sugar that are common in commercial popsicles, plus the pineapple and raspberry have their own health benefits. You can’t ask for more when you’re looking for a little treat to tide you over in the heat.
