Summer is all about getting outside, enjoying the sunshine, and boosting your vitamin D. While it’s great to pack nuts, seeds and energy bars, we can also fuel our summertime outdoor adventures with the convenience of delicious and nutritious fruits and veggies.

For your picnic
The best picnics are simple, colorful, and easy to share. Fruits and veggies check all the boxes! Use a divided container to make a crudité, complemented with satisfying, delicious dips made from beans, Greek yogurt, or avocado. Add make-ahead salads from grain and veggies, like this gluten-free Tabbouleh twist (made with quinoa instead of bulgur) or add grilled, fresh, frozen or canned veggies to your favorite grains and beans and season with fresh herbs and vinaigrette for a simple side. Lastly, finish it off with easy to pack fruit kebabs served with lemon lime dip.

For your hike
If you are not packing fruit for your next hike, then you’re missing out on a fuel source that’s sure to help you reach new heights. Bananas and stone fruits like summer peaches, plums and nectarines are portable and pair perfectly with nut and seed butters, as well as trail mix and other nuts. It is also easy to pack canned, dried or dehydrated fruit, which will supply the energy your body needs and is simple snack on-the-go.

For your road trip
A long day in the car is potentially also a long day of snacking and drive through food unless you pack along fruits and veggies to keep your travel mates satisfied and nourished. Begin by making a mixed fruit smoothie blended with nut or seed butter, ground flaxseed, hemp seed, whey powder or other nourishing ingredients before you hit the road. Breakfast done! Then also pack along crunchy, colorful cut fruits and veggies to snack on. Regardless of where you find food on the road, you’ll know the day is more balanced and nourishing.

For your beach day
A long day in the sun also means a long day of hydrating foods and drinks that are refreshing and perfectly made for a summer day. Pack your cooler with frozen cubed watermelon, berries and grapes that can be enjoyed “as is” or used to chill and flavor water. Or sip some chilled melon soup. Lastly, don’t forget about hydrating veggies like iceberg lettuce, cucumbers, celery, and tomatoes.

 

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