summer

Healthy (Easy) Summer Recipes You Need to Try

Delectable Detox: Watermelon, Feta, and Mint Salad

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups watermelon, cubed

  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine watermelon cubes, feta cheese, and mint leaves.

  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.

  3. Drizzle dressing over the watermelon mixture and toss gently to combine.

  4. Serve immediately, garnished with extra mint leaves if desired.


Clean Carbs: Quinoa and Black Bean Salad

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

  • 2 cups water

  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 bell pepper, diced

  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped

  • 1 avocado, diced

  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon cumin

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a medium pot, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until water is absorbed and quinoa is tender. Let cool.

  2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, avocado, and cilantro.

  3. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour over quinoa mixture and toss to coat.

  4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.



Glow on the Go: Berry and Spinach Smoothie

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fresh or frozen mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

  • 1 banana

  • 1 cup fresh spinach leaves

  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt

  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or your preferred milk)

  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)

  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine berries, banana, spinach, Greek yogurt, almond milk, and chia seeds.

  2. Blend until smooth, adding honey if additional sweetness is desired.

  3. Pour into a glass and enjoy.



Have the best weekend!

Top Tips for a Healthy Summer Morning Routine

Summer mornings are an excellent opportunity to embrace healthy habits that set a positive tone for the rest of the day. With longer daylight hours and warmer weather, there's no better time to revamp your morning routine. In this blog, we'll explore ten healthy habits that will help you start your summer mornings on the right foot, ensuring you feel energized, focused, and ready to make the most of the season.

  • Wake up with the sun:

During summer, the sun rises early, and waking up with it can be invigorating. Allow natural light to fill your room by leaving curtains partially open before going to bed. This helps regulate your body's internal clock and promotes a more refreshing wake-up experience.


  • Hydrate first thing:

After a night's rest, your body craves hydration. Start your day by drinking a glass of water as soon as you wake up. Add a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing boost of vitamin C and to kickstart your metabolism.


  • Morning stretch or yoga:

Greet the day with gentle stretches or a short yoga session. Stretching improves blood circulation, enhances flexibility, and promotes a sense of calm, setting a positive tone for the day ahead.


  • Take your workout outdoors:

Embrace the pleasant summer mornings by taking your workout outdoors. Go for a jog, bike ride, or brisk walk in the park. Outdoor exercise not only elevates your mood but also exposes you to natural vitamin D.


  • Mindfulness or meditation:

Spend a few minutes each morning practicing mindfulness or meditation. This quiet time helps reduce stress, enhances focus, and fosters a positive mindset for the rest of the day.


  • Plan your day:

Take a moment to plan and prioritize your tasks for the day. Whether it's using a planner, journaling, or a productivity app, organizing your thoughts and goals can boost efficiency and reduce feelings of overwhelm.


A healthy morning routine sets the foundation for a productive and enjoyable day, especially during the summer when you have the chance to embrace the early sunlight and pleasant weather. By incorporating these ten healthy habits into your morning routine, you'll experience increased energy levels, reduced stress, and an overall improved sense of well-being. So, rise and shine to a refreshing summer morning filled with positivity and vitality!