Yes, my child is eating sand...don't judge.
My childhood pool day memories are so vivid that I can almost taste the chlorine, hot fries and coconut tanning oil. Half the fun of the whole swimming experience was lounging on my towel swapping stories and snacks during pool break. I never really considered the effort or expense my parents incurred so that I could happily refuel.
Now that I'm the mom, the snack bar is less of an option and hot fries are typically off the table. However, I still want my kids to enjoy tasty tidbits with their buds. The healthier, easier and less expensive the snack the happier mommy I am. Here are five of my favorites.
Minted Honey Grapes
Since we bought a little mint plant for our herb garden, I've been racking my brain to find uses. The girls and I created this little medley.
Green grapes (whole, or, sliced if you have time because the flavor infuses better)
Honey, lime juice and crushed mint leaves. We use approximately 2 1/2 tablespoons of each per pound of grapes. I recently invested in a mortar and pestle which is fantastic to blend and crush the leaves.
Combine all ingredients and chill for at least 2 hours before serving. I make a batch on Sunday nights and it keeps for about 2 days. You can freeze this as well and serve immediately in frozen state.
Homemade Snack Mix
Choose open pantry ingredients on hand and store in a plastic container. Suggestions for things to add are cereal (such as toasted oats or corn cereal), dried fruit, nuts, popcorn, carob chips, dark chocolate chips and pretzels. A little hint of cinnamon or the like is tasty too.
I use two methods. 1. Premix everything myself and bring the entire container to the pool. 2. Lay out all the open snacks, cereals on the counter. Give each kid a baggie and let them fill at will.
Dip and Tortilla Chips, Pretzels, Veggie Strips or Sliced Fruit
It doesn't have to be complicated to be good. Dip Ideas: Since tomatoes are flourishing, we're all about homemade pico de gallo or a simple salsa, hummus, light cream cheese, guacamole, bean dip, pimento cheese...
Fruit and Cheese Kabobs
These may not seem quick and easy at first, but, if you already have the ingredients on hand, they really are. Better yet, the kids like to do them on their own. Skewer cheese cubes, olives, pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges...you get the idea. Throw the skewers in a plastic bag to place in cooler.
Order a Pizza
You deserve a break too. You don't have to pay full price. Check with your favorite deliverer for deals or consider sources such as the Attractions Dining and Value Guide which offers tons of 'buy one get one free' eating out opportunities. Just make sure that you get a few extra pieces because your kids will suddenly make a few drooling friends when the Italian pie arrives!
What's your favorite poolside snack?
