Cool Down With Refreshing Summer Snacks

As the temperatures rise this summer season, nothing beats chilling out with some refreshing snacks that won't heat up your kitchen.

“As summer approaches, you should understand that most fruit juices, energy drinks, and sodas are very high in sugars, so that is something you want to avoid,” said Rob Daily, executive chef at The Ridge at Horizons. “A great way to avoid sugar is to drink sparkling water, fruit-infused water, or unsweetened tea. Natural fruit juices can be good but should only be consumed moderately to support proper hydration.”

From homemade iced treats to grab-and-go options, summer snacking can be simple and delicious.

“As far as snacks go, please ensure you stay away from processed snacks like chips, cookies, and ice cream, which are really high in fats and artificial sweeteners,” Daily said. “Opt instead for fresh fruits, frozen yogurt, homemade snacks like trail mix, and fruit popsicles. Many frozen fruits can be frozen and pureed to make homemade fruit popsicles. You should be sure to stay away from alcohol because it is very dehydrating to your body.”

Here are some of the best summer snack ideas to keep you comfortable and nourished this season.:

Iced Coffee Granola Bars

Start your summer mornings right with homemade granola bars that feature cold-brew coffee. Simply mix normal granola bar ingredients like oats, honey, and nuts, and add 2-3 tablespoons of cold brew concentrate. Press into a pan and chill in the fridge for an iced coffee-infused treat that will cool you down from the inside out. You can experiment with different nuts, seeds, and dried fruit to make your perfect granola bar recipe.

Fruit Popsicles

Skip the sugar-laden store-bought pops and whip up your own nutritious frozen snacks using in-season fruit. Blend berries, stone fruits, or melons into a puree, then pour into popsicle molds and freeze overnight. For lower-sugar popsicles, squeeze lemon or lime juice to the fruit puree before freezing. Add a splash of seltzer water for a fizzy fruit popsicle experience.

Watermelon Salad

Watermelon is one of summer's most refreshing snacks, and it makes a deliciously simple and healthy salad option. Cut watermelon into cubes and toss with thinly sliced red onion, feta cheese crumbles, and fresh mint leaves. Drizzle with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt for the perfect low-effort summer snack. Sometimes the simplest snacks from fresh, seasonal ingredients are the most satisfying.

Antipasto Platter

Make a batch of easy veggie snacks that you can dip into hummus or enjoy on your own. Slice bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and snap peas and arrange on a platter with olives, cheese cubes, and salami. Add whole-grain crackers or cut pita wedges for dipping. Antipasto platters are versatile - you can include whatever vegetables and spreads are on hand to create a flavorful selection of summer bites.

Cold Salad Sandwiches

Skip the summer heat and pack a cold sandwich using leftover salad as filling. Chop leftover marinated vegetables or grain salads and mix with chopped hard-boiled eggs, tuna, or chickpeas. Stir in Greek yogurt or mayonnaise and season with salt, pepper, and minced fresh herbs. Fill sandwich bread, lettuce cups, or pita pockets for a healthy summer lunch that requires no stove or oven.