Healthy Snacks & Cool Cocktails

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Healthy Snacks & Cool Cocktails

Summer is finally here, and the beach and pool parties are calling your name along with the family get-togethers, vacations, and lazy days at the beach or pool.  So how do you stay healthy while enjoying?  Here are some ideas for healthy snacks and cool cocktails to enjoy.
First, let’s start with some easy healthy snacks to make for a party or just enjoy as a guest.  A healthy snack can offer many health benefits and can be included in a weight-loss plan by choosing a mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, and will keep your energy levels consistent.

Bruschetta
An easy party favorite.  Top a small slice of Italian bread with a mixture of tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and basil. The tomatoes contain lycopene which is a powerful antioxidant, the olive oil helps your body absorb the nutrients in the tomatoes, the garlic is packed with antioxidants, and the basil contains Vitamin K, Iron, Calcium, and Vitamin A. So these tasty little bites not only taste good but are packed with some great things for your body.

Vegetables and Dip

Load up your plate with the veggies, and don’t forget to enjoy the creamy ranch dip.  Vegetables contain a strong source of Vitamin A, and studies show that adding a little bit of fat to your veggies helps the body absorb the nutrients.  

Cheese  

I think everyone loves cheese.  Well, at least I know I love it.  They say that women require 1000mg of calcium a day.  Hard cheeses such as cheddar have more calcium, and one or two good-size chunks can give you about 120mg, so go get your calcium.  You can pair with some fresh summer fruit and get in that Vitamin C along with the Calcium.

Watermelon and Prosciutto Skewers

Watermelon is a natural diuretic and good for hydration, so enjoy a skewer of refreshing watermelon with your choice of meat or cheese.  On 6-inch skewers, thread 3 pieces watermelon with 1/2 slice prosciutto folded between each.  You can drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.  You can substitute with lean bacon or pancetta or you can use goat or feta cheese with the watermelon if you do not want to use meat, and it is just as delicious.

Mixed Nuts

Enjoying a few small handfuls of plain nuts can keep you full with the protein and give you a nice dose of vitamins, fiber, and protein. Sunflower and pumpkin seeds are high in vitamin E that is good for circulation, skin, and even PMS.  

Yes, you can enjoy a couple of cocktails and still feel good in your bikini. Try some of these low-calorie cocktails below.


Ruby Red Grapefruit Cocktail
This refreshing sparkling grapefruit cocktail recipe has gin, Campari, fresh grapefruit juice and seltzer. The Campari gives this drink its beautiful red color, but you can omit if you prefer a less bitter drink.  Stir grapefruit juice, seltzer, gin and Campari together in a pitcher.  Fill glass with ice and top with the cocktail mixture. Garnish with grapefruit, if desired. 121 calories per serving.

Cucumber & Melon White Sangria
To create this delicious healthy cocktail, use fruity white wine, zesty liquor, and a lot of fresh fruit and basil—crisp and refreshing.  Combine wine, vermouth, melon, cucumber and basil in a large pitcher. Refrigerate until cold, and stir in seltzer just before serving. Serve over ice. 146 calories per serving.

Grapefruit Basil Martini
Here is a low-calorie cool cocktail that has some added benefits of vitamins and antioxidants.  It consists of basil, grapefruit juice, sugar-free sweetener syrup, gin, and sparkling wine. In a shaker, muddle basil and syrup.  Add syrup and gin and shake with ice for 20 or so seconds. Strain ingredients into a glass with ice and top with sparkling wine. Garnish with a grapefruit twist. 161 calories per serving.

Mimosa Lite

Enjoy this light and fruity cool cocktail.  4 ounces champagne, juice of 1/2 medium-size orange.  Add several ice cubes to a glass, squeeze the juice of the orange into the glass. Pour in orange tangerine juice followed by champagne and stir. Garnish with fresh orange rinds. 120 calories per serving.
When All Else Fails—Wine (Red or White)

Red wine is chock-full of polyphenols that can help lower blood pressure and promote overall heart health.  White wines contain flavonoids that have antioxidant properties.  The sweeter wines will have more calories than the dry wine.  You can always cut your calories in half by ordering a spritzer which is half wine, half seltzer.  125 calories for 5 fluid oz of wine, approximately 80 calories if you have the spritzer.

So whatever your choice for a healthy snack or a cool cocktail, enjoy and wishing you all a great summer!