Summer is here… one of my favorite seasons for food! We are graced with a plethora of fresh veggies (that we can actually grow in our own garden) and fruits without the hefty price tag.
One of my favorite fresh snacks of the summer is the abundance of BERRIES. Our family’s intake of these fantastically sweet and juicy treats (not to mention high in anti-oxidants) goes up exponentially from late June through late August.
Having access to fresh berries also opens up our possibilities for some fantastic desserts and treats. I thought I would share with you today a few of my favorite kid-approved (and appreciated) summer berry treats:
1) Coconut Berry Bars
– Made with healthy “Coconut Cream” and a homemade “Larabar” base, these treats are so tasty and so healthy – they could be served for breakfast!
Recipe: http://paleomg.com/berry-cream-bars/
2) Raspberry Blackberry Coconut Parfait
– If you always keep a can (or two) of coconut milk in your fridge – this simple treat can be made in no time at all
Recipe: http://cookeatpaleo.com/raspberry-blackberry-coconut-parfait/
3) Berries and Greens
– Add some fresh berries to your summer salad to add a splash of sweetness. Spinach based salads work well with berries, but you don’t have to limit your choices to this leafy green. Added fat & protein pair well too by adding some raw seeds or nuts.
Suggested recipe: http://www.paleonewbie.com/a-berry-delicious-paleo-summer-salad/
4) Berry Smoothies
No need to follow a recipe for this one! Simply add some of your favorite berries, combined with banana (for thickness), a non-dairy milk (coconut is my favorite in smoothies) and some ice.
You can add extra sweetness by including a medjool date or some mango, or some extra flavor by adding some fresh mint.
For the kids – pour your favorite berry smoothie in a popsicle mold, along with chunks of fresh berries – and you now have the dessert dilemma solved.
Be creative… don’t hold back… embrace the berries!
Lizanne Rowe, Family Food Coach, Natural Care Clinic
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