The warm weather is finally here, and what better way to celebrate the arrival of the season than with a fresh and healthy snack? Here at The Gardens at Brook Ridge Memory Care and Transitional Assisted Living, we want to help our residents and their families find the best snacks that fill you up and are tasty and nutritious! That’s why we have come up with some refreshing ideas that are perfect for any warm day.
One of the easiest and healthiest snacks you can enjoy during the spring and summer is a delicious fruit salad. Not only is it easy to make, but it is also packed with essential vitamins and minerals. You can mix and match different fruits like strawberries, blueberries, kiwis, and bananas, and if you want to get a little fancier, top it off with some fresh mint leaves. For an extra burst of flavor, we recommend drizzling some honey or yogurt on top!
Another refreshing snack that is great for warmer weather is veggie sticks with hummus. Cut up some carrots, celery, and cucumber into bite-size sticks and serve them with a side of hummus. Hummus is a good source of protein and healthy fats, and veggies are packed with vitamins and minerals. You can change this up with different kinds of hummus, too! Try one with garlic or cilantro, jalapeno, lemon, or red pepper. We love this snack because not only is it delicious but it also provides a lot of energy to keep you going throughout the day.
Smoothies are a fantastic way to stay hydrated and cool during those warmer days. You can use any combination of fruits and vegetables, and add some ice cubes to make it extra refreshing. Or opt for frozen fruit for an extra-creamy and cool base. We also recommend adding protein powder, chia seeds, or flaxseed for a nutritional boost. Add-ins like these are also useful for keeping you full throughout the day and are perfect to turn your smoothie from a refreshing snack to a meal replacement option.
A yogurt parfait is a delicious and healthy snack that is perfect for on-the-go or to satisfy a sweet tooth! You can layer yogurt, granola, and fruit in a glass, and top it off with some honey or agave syrup. This snack is not only tasty but also provides a good amount of protein and fiber. The probiotics in yogurt also make it a great snack for your gut health.
Avocado toast is a delicious snack that represents the season beautifully. Simply toast a slice of whole-grain bread, spread some mashed avocado on top, and add salt and pepper. You can also add some sliced tomatoes or hard-boiled eggs for added nutrients and an extra burst of flavor. Want to go the spicier route? Try garlic or onion powder and top with red pepper flakes. Bonus: avocado is a major source of healthy fats and fiber!
Spring rolls are super fresh and healthy, and are very customizable! Combine fresh veggies like carrots and cucumber into a rice paper wrapper and voila! You can also add shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a protein boost. One of our favorite ways to elevate the freshness of spring rolls is to add mint or basil to them. Take it up a notch with a side of peanut sauce for dipping.
We hope you enjoy our snack recommendations and try a few of these out! They’re not only tasty but also packed with good-for-you nutrients like vitamins, protein, and fiber, and all of them are easy to make.
If you want to learn more about The Gardens at Brook Ridge, our Rio Grande retirement home, give us a call or schedule a tour today!