The sun is shining, the grill is up and running, the kids are splashing in the pool…nothing beats summertime! If you’re struggling to find nutritious ways to keep your weight on track in these sunny months, look no further. We’ve compiled some of the best (and yummiest) foods for your summer indulgence, easy to modify and customize for your exact dietary preferences! Check out these summer recipes.
1: Watermelon
What’s not to love about this juicy summer treat? Watermelon is a sweet staple of summer fun, and at more than 90% water, it’ll help keep you hydrated while only packing on about 30 calories per 2/3 cup! It’s also full of fantastic nutrients like vitamins A, B6 and C, lycopene, antioxidants and amino acids. And if eating it on its own is getting old (could it ever?) look here to find inspiration on creative and easy ways to incorporate watermelon into sorbets, salads, juices, and more!
2: Grilled Kabobs
I just want to go on record here and say that if you haven’t tried grilled pineapple, you haven’t really lived. Shish kabobs are the perfect customizable summer dinner! Whether you’re plant-based, gluten-free, keto, or just trying to lose weight…you can endlessly reinvent the protein, fruits, and veggies on skewers to fit your dietary needs! Modifiable ingredients and predetermined portions make them an excellent food for a group gathering as well, meaning you don’t have to skimp on the socializing during your weight loss journey! Check out some awesome recipes here.
3: Fruit Salad
Let’s be real; when has fruit salad ever not been the hit of the party? Nothing says summer like fresh berries, easy to serve and guilt-free to snack on. A cup of strawberries alone contains 53 calories; an entire kiwi has barely 40 calories and contains vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin E, folate, and potassium + antioxidants and fiber!
4: Salmon Burgers
Salmon burgers will have you saying “how did I not know about this before?!” Rich in protein and omega-3, substitute salmon at your cookout and you won’t regret it. I like mine with just some lemon drizzle and pepper flakes, but the options here are really endless; for a low-carb option, try switching out your bun for iceberg lettuce! Here is just one highly rated recipe for pure salmon deliciousness.
5: Quinoa Salad
If you haven’t ventured into the world of quinoa, let me introduce you: at twice the protein content and significantly more fiber than the same quantity of rice, quinoa is a tasty grain base that will fill you up fast at barely more than 100 calories per 1/2 cup! Serve it cold with cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, and spinach; or go for a Mexican spin with grilled bell peppers, avocado, and black beans! Pick your perfect healthy dressing of choice and you will have the world’s most satisfying summer salad. Here is just one recipe packed full of flavor and guaranteed to leave you full!
You are now prepared to tackle summer with these healthy recipes in tow! What’s the only thing better than eating well and losing weight? Getting paid for it! Check out HealthyWage – an individual weight loss challenge customized to you. You can pick your weight loss goal, timeframe you want to lose it in, and prize (up to $10,000)! Ready to get started? Enter your information in the HealthyWage Prize Calculator to find out how much you can win!
