Laying out by the pool might not exert tons of energy…but can certainly zap you and make you famished. There is absolutely no need to starve yourself while working on your tan during this high summer season!
Finding something yummy to nosh on should be just as fulfilling as it is enjoyable. From crisp, health-infused options to ones that add in some extra oomph to balance out that poolside marg, we have come across some great options that provide you with the summer sustenance you need.
Sweet Treats
Oreo Icebox
Ingredients….
1 (8-oz.) package cream cheese, at room temperature
1 c. powdered sugar
1 Tbsp. vanilla extract
3 c. heavy cream, divided
50 chocolate Oreo cookies
3 (6-oz.) containers raspberries, divided
Directions…
Blend cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla on medium speed. Proceed with the first half of heavy cream for one minute and then pour in the additional 2 cups. Alternate cream mixture + Oreos + raspberries two full cycles and top with a few crushed Oreos. So cold and delish!
Dessert Pizza
Ingredients…
1/4 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1 large egg
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon lemon extract
1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
glaze: 1/4 cup sugar, 2 teaspoons cornstarch, 1/4 cup water, 1/4 cup orange juice
topping: 4 ounces cream cheese, 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar, 1 cup whipped topping, 1 banana sliced, 1 cup sliced strawberries, 1 can mandarin oranges, 1/3 cup blueberries
Directions…
In a small bowl, cream butter and sugar for 5 minutes. Beat in egg and extracts. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Then, add to creamed mixture. Press dough into a greased pizza pan and bake at 350° for 12-14 minutes.
For glaze, combine sugar and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Stir in the water and orange juice until smooth. Bring to a boil; cook 1-2 minutes or until thickened. Cool to room temperature (possibly 30 minutes or so).
For topping, in a small bowl, beat cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Add whipped topping. Spread over crust. Arrange fruit on top. Brush glaze over fruit. Store in refrigerator. A cool and refreshing treat with some added health benefits!
Savory + Fresh Options
Avocado Salsa
Ingredients:
2 avocados, peeled and diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes quartered
1/4 red onion chopped
1 pepper seeded and chopped
1/2 c. diced jicama
1/2 c. chopped fresh cilantro
Juice of 2 limes
1/2 tsp. garlic salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
Directions:
In a medium bowl, combine the avocado, tomato, red onion, poblano, jicama, cilantro, juice of 1 lime, garlic salt, and pepper. Taste the mixture for lime juice and salt, adding more as necessary. Serve this dip with any tortilla chip….our crew LOVES Siete options!!!
Watermelon Feta Salad
Ingredients:
1/4 cup EVOO
2 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
Kosher salt
3 cups cubed seedless watermelon
1 cup chopped cucumber
1 cup crumbled feta….or more if you prefer!
1/2 cup coarsely chopped mint
1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
Directions:
In a small bowl whisk oil, vinegar, and 1/2 tsp. kosher salt. Then, it’s time to add your watermelon, cucumber, feta, mint, and onion all together. Finally, toss to coat in dressing. So light and refreshing….perfect for a lunch or dinner side!
