Entertaining Ideas
When most people hear the words healthy food they think no flavor, no variety, and very small portions. When FitCity hears healthy food, we think about ways to share it with others!
There are easy ways to include healthy eating in your entertainment plans. Check out this month's Entertaining Idea.
by Jenni Purcell, MS, RD, CD
Jenni is an exercise physiologist and Registered Dietitian with nearly 10 years experience in the the public & community health fields. She is currently the Director of Communications for the American Dairy Association of Indiana.
The summer months are well-known for friendly, outdoor gatherings. Whether it’s at your house entertaining a group of people or you have decided to meet in a park for a pitch in - either way food is always involved!
The thought of a picnic or outdoor gathering usually creates pleasant memories and nostalgic feelings of summer. Outdoor events may include large groups of people from work or church, small groups of family and friends, or just a romantic picnic for two, and now is the ideal picnic season. No matter if it is a spontaneous event that only requires a few things to be tossed into the picnic basket, or a planned affair, here are some healthy recipe and fun planning ideas:
1. Add fun plates, utensils and napkins to make the gathering a little extra special.
2. Snack-sized portions are perfect for a picnic. Any type of bread (Italian would work), some type of cured meat like prosciutto, a few good cheeses, fruit like grapes, sliced apples or pears, and a bottle of wine and you have the makings of a perfect picnic.
3. Of course salads are a must – there are plenty of options besides potato salad, such as
- small grape or cherry tomatoes with small mozzarella balls or cubes, tossed with basil, olive oil, a dash of balsamic vinegar and salt and pepper to taste
- green grapes and cubes of feta cheese tossed with mint, olive oil and salt and pepper
Since June is National Dairy Month, I encourage you to visit a local dairy farm and learn how your food gets from the farm to your fork! Here are some additional healthy recipes for your next picnic or outing so you can be sure to get your three servings of dairy in for the day at the same time you are enjoying the great outdoors.
You can also serve flavored milk (strawberry, vanilla, or chocolate) with your food for a fun twist. For the adults you can have a Mootini (Chocolate Martini made with chocolate milk)!
By hosting a party that both parents and their children can enjoy, you'll be sure to create lasting memories. There's nothing quite so universally well loved -- and so symbolic -- as an outdoor summer party with family and friends.
Instead of keeping your good food ideas to yourself, tell us about them. Don't forget to share them with your friends, neighbors and family members too.
Did you miss a month? Check out past Entertaining Ideas here
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