For me, the perfect cottage weekends are filled with morning runs or bike rides followed by swimming in the lake, tanning and reading mags on the dock with friends and family, kayaking, boat cruises at sunset, camp fires, and of course delicious meals and snacks.
When it comes to traditional cottage and camping snacks, the first things that comesto my mind are chips, pop and candy. While those things are okay as treats sometimes (some of my best memories of camping as a kid were going to the store for five-cent candies!) you want to make sure to incorporate some healthy choices as well.
Here’s a list of some healthy, yummy snacks that you and your family can enjoy at the cottage this summer!
For the Kids…
Apple Slices with Aged White Cheddar
Sweet Potato Hummus with Raw Veggies
Homemade Yop
Fruit + plain 2% yogurt + squeeze of honey or real maple syrup…blend and enjoy!
Frozen Chocolate Banana Bites
http://amazingpinterestworld.blogspot.ca/2012/11/frozen-choco-banana-bites.html
Tip: Semi-sweet chocolate chips from Costco are okay if you can’t find vegan chocolate chips. Also, try topping your banana slices with a teaspoon of natural peanut butter before dunking in the chocolate!
Thin Oat Crisp Cookies
http://milkandcotton.ca/the-perfect-cookie/
Homemade Fruit and Nut Bars
Raspberry Pineapple Chia Popsicles
http://www.fitsugar.com/Berry-Pineapple-Popsicle-Recipe-16198260
Tropical Avocado Popsicles
http://cookingstoned.tv/recipe/tropical-avocado-popsicle/
Tip: use real maple syrup or honey instead of simple syrup
Simple Homemade Pineapple Sorbet
http://detoxinista.com/2013/02/pineapple-whip/
Homemade Granola Bars
http://www.cookincanuck.com/2012/01/low-fat-granola-bars-with-bananas-cranberries-pecans-recipe/
Tip: Use raisins instead of craisins (raisins are all-natural & a source of antioxidants while craisins have added sugar)
Something Savory for the Adults…
Healthy Choice Chips with Salsa and Skinny Guacamole
Caprese Salad Kabobs
Using a toothpick, spear a cherry tomato, mini boccacini cheese (or cube of white cheddar) and a basil leaf. Dip in balsamic vinegar.
Smoked Oysters or Mussels with Mary’s Crackers
I think my love of smoked fish may have to do with my Dutch background, but don’t be afraid – it’s a great snack!
Sardine and Avocado Mash
Combine a can of lemon or jalapeño-flavored sardines with 1 ripe avocado, a squeeze of lemon and sea salt. Serve on Mary’s crackers or healthy choice chips. This is a tough one for my clients to try, but it’s so tasty and SO good for you! Full of omega-3s, calcium and healthy fats.
