Picnic season is here, and with it comes the challenge of balancing delicious food with healthy choices. We all know picnic fare can be tempting, but there are ways to enjoy the fun without overdoing it.
Moderation is Key:
The secret lies in planning and portion control. Decide on a small treat for yourself or your family – maybe a vote for cookies vs. rice krispie treats?
Healthy Snack Prep:
Packing some healthy snacks beforehand can help curb the urge to overindulge on heavier picnic foods. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Fruit Skewers
Thread colorful banana slices, juicy strawberries, tropical pineapple chunks, fuzzy kiwi, and refreshing melon onto skewers. These kabobs are fun for kids to help make and even more enjoyable to devour!
Mason Jar Salads
Skip the disposable containers and embrace eco-friendly mason jars for your next picnic. Layer in a bed of fresh spinach, colorful chopped veggies like carrots, creamy avocado slices, and a protein source like grilled chicken or sushi-grade tuna. Top it all off with a sheet of nori (seaweed used for sushi).
Cheese Platter
Go for parmesan, asiago, goat cheese, or raw cheeses with Mary’s Gone seed-based crackers, Jilz crackers, or flax crackers as gluten-free options.
Fruit Iced Tea
Here’s how to create a delicious and healthy fruit iced tea:
- Steep the Tea: Brew your favorite unsweetened tea bags in hot water as directed.
- Get Creative with Flavor: Once cooled, infuse your tea with fresh fruit slices like strawberries, blueberries, or watermelon. Citrus fruits like oranges or lemons add a zesty touch.
- Herbal Accents: For a unique twist, consider muddling fresh mint or other herbs into your tea before adding the fruit.
Fresh Nuts and Seeds
Loaded with vitamins and healthy fats, nuts and seeds are so easy to bring to a party and are a great salty snack to have with a cocktail.
Baked Sweet Potato Chips and Guacamole
Craving a satisfying crunch? Baked sweet potato chips offer a delicious alternative to greasy potato chips, boasting complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, fiber to keep you feeling full, and a wealth of vitamins and minerals, all wrapped up in a crispy and flavorful package.
Almond Flour Tortillas
Ditch the traditional tortillas and embrace a healthier alternative! Fill almond flour tortillas, readily available at places like Whole Foods or Siete Foods, with grilled chicken, creamy avocado, tangy goat cheese, crisp romaine lettuce, and vibrant sprouts for a delicious and nutritious taco variation.
Spirulina Balls
Spruce up your picnic with healthy alternatives like easy-to-make spirulina bites (or your favorite healthy creation)! They’re a delicious way to sneak in extra nutrition without sacrificing flavor. But remember, summer is about spending quality time with loved ones. So relax, eat mindfully, and don’t fret if a hot dog or ice cream tempts you. Balance is key to a happy and healthy summer!
