Fresher Snacks
When it comes to nibbles in the summer, look no further than your local farmers’ market or your own garden! Serve up fresh veggies—like green beans, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, carrot and celery sticks, sugar snap peas, and asparagus spears to dip into a homemade guacamole, Greek yogurt dip, or hummus.

Remember to Hydrate
You can easily become dehydrated at a barbecue or beach cookout. As you perspire, the body needs to refuel its vital fluid levels. Sure, a few beers are nice with a chicken burger, but remember to pack a cooler with bottled water, sparkling water, and infused water (i.e., a water pitcher with lemon and cucumber slices) to top up hydration levels at hot barbecue parties.

Summer’s Sweets
You wouldn’t dare deny your guests a sweet dessert following dinner. However, it’s what you serve that can make all the difference. Fresh, local fruits—like a seasonal fruit salad, fruit pops made with fresh fruit puree, or a huge platter of sliced watermelon will surely hit the sweet spot!

Liven Up Your Barbecue
You don’t have to sit on your duff while dinner grills. Instead, get up and move around, go for a swim, throw the football or Frisbee around, or stage a game of bocce ball or horseshoes to keep the circulation flowing. And remember, after dinner is the perfect time to go for a leisurely stroll…and maybe catch the sunset.

Julie Ching, MS, RDN, CDE
Julie Ching is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator in Los Angeles. She decided to become a Dietitian after traveling through Europe, South America, and Asia and discovered a passion for food. She now works with people of all ages and varying disease states to improve their health. She is passionate about teaching people about nutrition so they can live their best life while still considering their cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.