A busy summer schedule requires plenty of energy, and while relaxation is sure to help, what you eat is your essential source of fuel. Just like filling up your gas tank, food is what makes your body go.
A well-balanced approach to eating is a smart way to ensure your body gets the nutrients it needs to power you through each fun-filled day and keep you operating in tip-top shape.
Reach for snacks full of seasonal fruits and vegetables like peaches, cucumbers, zucchini and raspberries that will satisfy your appetite and fuel your summer days.
Here are some recipes, courtesy of Atkins. Find more warm-weather recipes at Atkins.com.
Tropical Raspberry Smoothie
Prep time: 5 minutes; servings: 1
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup coconut cream
- 4 ounces firm silken tofu
- 1/2 cup red raspberries, plus additional (optional)
- 2 tsp sugar substitute (optional)
- 1/8 tsp coconut extract
- 3 ice cubes
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
In blender, combine coconut cream, tofu, raspberries, sugar substitute, if desired, and coconut extract; blend until smooth. To remove seeds, strain mixture through sieve then return to blender.
With machine running, add ice cubes, one at a time, and blend until smooth.
Pour into tall glass and garnish with whipped cream and raspberries, if desired.
Peachy Prosciutto Bites
Prep time: 10 minutes; servings: 4 (3 bites per serving)
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup whole almonds
- 2 medium peaches (each 2 1/2 inches in diameter)
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Sugar substitute (optional)
- 12 thin slices prosciutto
- 12 basil leaves (optional)
Instructions:
Heat oven to 350 degrees.
In single layer, toast almonds 10 minutes. Let cool then coarsely chop. Set aside.
Slice each peach into six wedges and set aside.
In small bowl, combine softened cream cheese with cinnamon and pinch of sugar substitute. Add almonds; blend to combine.
Lay out single slice of prosciutto, place 1 tablespoon cheese mixture on top of peach wedge and top with basil leaf. Place wedge at one end of prosciutto and roll up. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Smoked Salmon, Cucumber and Cream Cheese Roll-Ups
Prep time: 5 minutes; servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 2 cucumbers (8 1/4 inches long each)
- 8 tbsp cream cheese
- 12 ounces smoked chinook salmon (lox)
Instructions:
Use mandolin or vegetable peeler to cut long, thin strips of cucumber.
Spread cream cheese onto smoked salmon, place strip of cucumber at one edge and roll up with salmon and cream cheese. Pin in place with toothpick. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Zucchini Crisps
Prep time: 10 minutes; cook time: 10 minutes; servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated
- Garlic powder (optional)
- Italian seasoning (optional)
- Rosemary (optional)
- Dill (optional)
Instructions:
Heat oven to 400 degrees.
Cut zucchini into 1/4-inch slices. If small, cut diagonally. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt, pepper and Parmesan. Season as desired with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, rosemary or dill.
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