We can all agree that summer is about relaxation, sunshine, tans, and relishing the freedom away from school. But, my favorite part is trying new tasty recipes. As the season approaches, I encourage you to indulge in these 3 nutritious and delicious recipes!

1. Papaya Yogurt Boat

This fruity sensation is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while also adding nutritious benefits. Greek yogurt is protein-rich to keep you full, and papaya is packed with digestive enzymes that help your body properly absorb its nutrients. Additionally, blueberries are a great source of antioxidants and full of fiber as well. The combination of these wholesome ingredients make this dish all the more nourishing.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 small/medium-sized de-seeded papaya
• ½ cup plain yogurt
• 1 tbsp of honey
• 1 tbsp of peanut butter
• A sprinkle of blueberries
• A handful of granola
• A sprinkle of cinnamon

PREPARATION

1. Cut your papaya in half and scoop out the seeds.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together your plain yogurt with honey and cinnamon. 
3. Fill the papaya half with yogurt.
4. Top with a drizzle of peanut butter, blueberries, and granola, and enjoy!

2. Peanut Butter Ice Cream Bars

Here’s a yummy, nutty, and refreshing sweet treat that tastes almost as good as it is for your body. Creamy coconut milk and nut butter as a healthy fat, topped with magnesium-rich chocolate, will surely satisfy any sugar cravings without any processed sugar. This is definitely a recipe to share with your friends or family!

INGREDIENTS

• 1 can of unsweetened coconut milk
• ½ cup of peanut butter
• ½ cup of maple syrup
• A pinch of salt
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract
• Toppings: 
  • Dark chocolate
  • Peanut Butter
  • 1 tbsp of coconut oil

PREPARATION

1. In a large blender, add the coconut milk, peanut butter, maple syrup, salt, and vanilla extract and blend. 
2. Pour the mixture into a popsicle mold and freeze for 3-4 hours until fully frozen. 
3. In a separate bowl, add your desired amount of chocolate with a tablespoon of coconut oil. Melt in 30 second intervals and mix in between them until it fully melts. 
4. Drizzle or dip your frozen popsicle into the melted chocolate and let it freeze for a few seconds.
5. Enjoy a sweet and satisfying icy treat!

3. Berry Crumble

A balance of sweet and tart with an amazingly crunchy texture is what truly makes this treat special. The crumble holds healthy fats and fiber that aid in digestion, and berries contain lots of antioxidants, vitamins, and gut-loving prebiotics. Fun fact: The gut is called the body’s “second brain” because it’s regulated by a network of nerves directly connected to the brain. Eating this treat will nourish not only your gut, but your brain as well.

INGREDIENTS

• Berries:
  • 1 cup of frozen berries
  • ½ a lemon
  • 1 tbsp of honey
• Crumble:
  • 2 tbsp of almond flour
  • 2 tbsp of oats
  • ¼ tsp of cinnamon
  • A pinch of salt
  • 1 tbsp of honey
  • 1 tbsp of melted coconut oil
  • 1 tsp of vanilla extract
• Topping:
  • Yogurt
  • More fresh berries of your choice

PREPARATION

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In an oven-safe bowl, mix your berries, honey, and lemon juice together.
3. In a separate bowl, combine your almond flour, oats, cinnamon, salt, honey, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour your crumble mixture on top of your berry mixture in the oven-safe bowl and mix until just combined.
5. Insert your bowl into the oven and let it bake for 25 minutes, or until it’s golden brown.
6. Let it cool for 5 minutes.
7. Top with the yogurt of your choice and enjoy!
   

Whether you’re trying to satisfy your sweet tooth, familiarize yourself with new and easy recipes, or just want to immerse yourself in the summer feeling, I encourage you to recreate or create your own spin on these delicious snacks!