August Summer Treats to Savor

The heat is blazing, and our summer cravings are still in full swing. With the end of summer just around the corner, take the next few weeks to savor every last bit of heat and some of our favorite August summer treats.

August Summer Treats

Watermelon:

One of my all time favorites. Despite being a popular summer fruit, watermelon is in peak season on the East Coast from August through October. Delicious, juicy, and sweet, watermelon can give a whole new meaning to the term nutrient dense. Packed with water, Vitamin A and C, potassium, and lycopene, a powerful disease-fighting antioxidant, this fruit is a great way to fuel and hydrate your body, while satisfying your taste buds. Looking for more to do with watermelon, like our 4th of July-themed Summer Salad? Whether it’s spritzing up your drink or watermelon pizza, the Watermelon Board has you covered.

Ice Cream:

“Go big or go home.” As much as I’m a dietitian and health enthusiast, that’s my motto when it comes to ice cream. See, I love ice cream. Like, love it and grew up in a household where ice cream was our thing. Sundae Saturday? Yup. Sundae Tuesday? We made that happen too. Although I like frozen yogurt, when I’m craving ice cream, I embrace it and this is often the better way to address cravings. So, what better time to treat yourself with a cone than the hottest days of summer? Go for it.

Shaken Iced Teas:

I’m by far a coffee drinker, but Starbucks’ shaken iced teas are beginning to make me rethink my morning caffeine. With flavors like passion fruit, blackberry, mint, and lemon, I love gulping this down after a morning run for just the right energy boost. Ask for the unsweetened version with a splash of lemonade for a version with just enough sweet and tartiness.

Beets:

I’ll be honest, I hate beets. I have tried them roasted, raw, plain, or mixed into an otherwise delicious salad and for some reason, I just can’t bring myself to like them. However, this is just unfortunate because I love the IDEA of beets. A not-so-common veggie unlike any other, beets contain blood flow-boosting nitrates and are packed with potassium, magnesium, fiber, phosphorus, vitamins A, B, & C, beta-carotene, folic acid and plenty more nutrition. Check out all the benefits of beets.

Homemade Dressings:

Although there are many reputable brands out there, most salad dressings are packed with preservatives, unhealthy fats, artificial flavors and colors, and added sugar. Don’t get me wrong, pre-made salad dressings are a practical choice and can be a part of a healthy diet, especially when acting as a transport system for veggies. However, making your own dressing can also be an easy alternative. For a basic combo, combine your choice of oil (like olive, walnut, or flaxseed), vinegar, and any flavors you want. Top off with a touch of salt and pepper. Check out this infographic for more creativity in the kitchen.

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Enjoy these august summer treats!