In the summer, we tend to spend more time outdoors, either at picnics or in our backyards. This means that you’ll likely be eating more snacks than usual — and it probably won’t just be apples and oranges. Chips, dips, and other unhealthy finger foods are also common staples during the summer months. However, you don’t have to let this destroy your diet! Provided that you keep track of what you’re eating and how much of each snack you’re consuming, you can easily incorporate healthy summer snacks into your daily routine without sabotaging your diet in the process.
Baked Shells
Pasta shells are a great source of fibre and protein, two nutrients that most people don’t get enough of in their daily diets. You can select whole wheat or spinach pasta for added fibre, or you can even use brown rice pasta for a gluten-free alternative. This pasta dish is also very easy to customize with different spices and sauces, so you can make it your own. How to make it: Start by boiling your pasta shells until they’re tender, and then drain them in a colander. Place the pasta shells on a baking sheet sprayed with non-stick spray, and then bake them in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for around 10 minutes, or until they’re crispy.
Roasted Chickpeas
Chickpeas are a great source of fibre and protein, and they also happen to be super cheap, making them an excellent choice if you’re looking to save money. If you’re not sure how to roast chickpeas, don’t worry — it’s super easy! All you have to do is toss a bag of dried chickpeas into the oven while it’s preheating, and then mix them around every 10 minutes until they’re completely roasted. How to make it: Chickpeas are great as a snack on their own, or you can also use them to make salads and soups. You can also toss them into a salad with greens, olives, and other vegetables for added fibre, protein, and healthy fats.
Baked Edamame
Edamame is a great source of fibre, protein, and iron, making it a healthy choice for vegetarians and vegans. You can buy edamame pods in most grocery stores, just make sure to read the label and select pods that are out of water, as they’re much easier to prepare. Simply steam the edamame in a pot with a little bit of water in it until they’re tender. How to make it: Edamame is delicious on its own, but you can also use it to make edamame dip, or sprinkle it onto salads. You can also mix the pods in with baked chicken breasts to add more fibre and protein to your meal.
Dark Chocolate and Berries
There are few things better than chocolate and berries as a quick snack, especially if you’re looking for a low-calorie option. You can pair any type of berries with dark chocolate for a healthy, balanced snack that also tastes great! How to make it: Simply choose your favourite dark chocolate bar, and then top it with a handful of mixed berries. Be sure to check the ingredients list on your chocolate bar, as some brands use unhealthy additives and preservatives.
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The summer is a great time to get outside and enjoy the warm weather, but it can also be easy to overindulge in unhealthy snacks if you aren’t careful. With these three healthy summer snacks, you can enjoy yourself during the day without feeling guilty about what you’re eating.