Happy Friday! What are you getting into this weekend? Can you believe we’re winding down the month of May? Where did all that time go? More importantly, summer is coming! For a lot of us, that means summer cook-outs* with friends and family.
I usually contribute some kind of vegetable-based dish and let the grill-masters tend to the meaty stuff, but that still leaves dessert up in the air. Warmer weather is prime time for frozen treats, making the post-dinner fro-yo run a popular outting. I already see a lot of people walking around NYC with a spoon in a cup.
Though frozen yogurt still returns of that health halo from the fat-phobic 1990s, it’s still fairly high in sugar and should be enjoyed in moderation as opposed to an everyday thing, but there are certainly ways to make it a healthier options. Toppings can make or break your fro-yo experience, so if you want some ideas for what to add, an article I wrote about healthier frozen yogurt toppings appeared on YouBeauty earlier this week.
If frozen yogurt and ice cream aren’t your thing, summer is a great time to enjoy fruit-based desserts or even—shocker—fruit for dessert. I know, I know. I have to say these things. As a dietitian, I’m basically bound by law to remind you eat your fruits and veggies. Here are a few of my favorite summer dessert recipes:
- Single-Serving Ginger Peach Crumble
- Grilled peaches
- Roasted Figs
- Frozen Banana “ice cream”
- Fit-Bottomed Girls grilled watermelon
And this dark chocolate coconut granola makes a great garnish.
All that said, nothing beats the real deal once in a while (think once or twice a month, as opposed to every other day), so whether it’s a piece of cake, an ice cream bar at the beach—whatever—enjoy a little bit guilt-free and get on with your life.
Also, because you’re going to want something to drink at said sumer cook-out, check out my suggestions for healthier summer cocktails.
What are you looking forward to this weekend?