7 Low-Fat Beach Snacks
How many of us have been in this exact scenario: we’re enjoying a day at the beach, soaking in the sun, priding ourselves on remembering everything from extra SPF to an umbrella that actually stays put — when we notice a growling in our stomachs.
Knowing those boardwalk restaurants are full of options we should try to avoid if we’re working on losing weight, we decide to just ignore our hunger pangs. But that only works for a little while, and before we know it, we’re spending money on food that’s less than stellar in terms of nutrition.
Luckily, this problem is easily avoided. All it takes is a little bit of prep time in the kitchen, and before you know it, you’ll have some delicious, low-fat beach snacks that are portable and good for you!
Healthy Beach Snacks
Fresh Fruit
One of the easiest, most versatile, and healthiest options out there, fresh fruit is a great beach snack. Make a fruit salad (don’t forget to squirt a little lime on top for an extratart kick!), blend up some fresh options for an all-natural sorbet, or even freeze smaller fruits like grapes and berries to use as ice cubes!
Chicken Sandwich With Hummus
Grilled, skinless chicken breast is a great high-protein, low-fat option for sandwiches. Skip the high-fat mayonnaise and add a small dollop of hummus, which contains fiber and iron, and fill two pieces of whole wheat bread with lettuce, tomato, sprouts, and a pickle for a satisfying, balanced meal.
Roasted Chickpeas
Chickpeas are a high-protein, high-fiber, low-fat legume. To turn them into a crispy snack, pour them out of the can, rinse, pat dry, and toss them with a little bit of olive oil (not too much, as olive oil can be high in fat). Add salt, spices, and garlic powder, and then set them on a baking sheet in a 450°F oven. Keep them roasting for about 45 minutes, checking on them periodically.
Beef Jerky and Homemade Salsa
Many types of beef jerky are high in protein and low in fat. Instead of dipping chips into salsa, consider using beef jerky instead! And when it comes to the salsa itself, consider making your own version with lots of fresh veggies and as much spice as you want.
Cold Pasta Salad With Veggies
Use whole-grain or chickpea pasta to amp up the fiber and nutrients, then add fresh vegetables and a fat-free vinaigrette to bring out the flavors.
Frozen Yogurt Sticks
If you’re craving something sweet, freeze tubes of low-fat yogurt the night before your beach trip. Keep them in a cooler, and by the time you’re ready to eat them, they should be the consistency of ice cream, but much healthier for you!
Angel Food Cake and Fat-Free Whipped Cream
Easy to find at most grocery stories, angel food cake is typically low-fat or fat-free, and is perfect for when you’re looking for a treat. Pair it with fat-free whipped cream, and you have a heavenly dessert that won’t weigh you down.