Quick and easy treats for the summer

Summer is approaching and while children are enjoying the break, you would like to give them treats that they will love and enjoy, while maintaining the health factor.

Chef Noel Cunningham noted that "when thinking about food for kids during the summer, it is best to keep in mind quick, colourful, or something they see fun in that makes them want to try it. But most off all, keep in mind nutrition and get them involved."

Here are a few of his sweet treats:

 

Blueberry-Coconut Yogurt Popsicle

 

This popsicle is perfect for the kids instead of ice cream on a hot summer day. I'm sure they won't even realise it's not ice cream.

1 cup coconut Greek yogurt

1 cup blueberry yogurt

Honey (optional)

Directions

Fill each popsicle mould or cup with blended yogurt alternatively and insert popsicle sticks using a mould. If using a cup after you add all the yogurt, insert stick and place carefully in the freezer overnight.

 

Orange juice Popsicle

 

The easy way to add vitamin C to children's diet during the summer while they are active.

Ingredients

Orange juice

Sliced strawberry

Blueberry

Blackberry

Sliced kiwi

Directions

Fill each popsicle mould or plastic cup with prepared fruits and add orange juice. Insert stick and place carefully in the freezer overnight.

Note: You can use just about any juice that you love in this recipe.

 

Melon Pizza

 

Perfect for a hot day outside. The kids will surely think it's a pizza.

Ingredients

1 watermelon (round cut or wedges)

1/4 cup coconut yogurt (for spread)

4 strawberries, sliced in quarter

4 raspberries cut in half

8 blueberries

Diced pineapples

Directions

1. Cut watermelon round in half then cut off a slice of watermelon right down the middle, about 2-3 inches thick.

2. Spread yogurt over the watermelon then add your fruits on top as you desire.

3. Cut melon in 8 pieces and enjoy.

 

Grilled Peanut Butter and Strawberry Jam Sandwich

 

Quick and easy sandwich the kids can enjoy. Crispy outside and filled with gooey goodness.

Ingredients

Bread slices

Peanut butter

Strawberry jam

Directions

Apply peanut butter and strawberry jam to toasted bread and cut in the desired shape

 

Blueberry and orange juice slushy

 

Ingredients

 1 cup frozen blueberries

 Orange juice

Directions

1. Blend the blueberries with the orange juice, scraping downs sides as necessary. Be careful not to add too much more liquid; you want to keep this thick and icy.

2. Pour into cups and enjoy.

 

Fruit kabobs

 

These fruits kabobs are fun to make and can always be made ahead of time for a family day out.

Ingredients

12 red seedless grapes

1/2 pineapple diced

12 green seedless grapes

12 blackberries

6 strawberries (hulled and cut into halves)

Sauce

1 cup yogurt

2tsp honey

Milk

Directions

Take 12 wooden skewers and thread the fruits in order and serve with yogurt dipping sauce.

For the sauce, combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine.