Macro-Friendly Cooler Snacks
There's nothing quite like a spontaneous trip to the beach to break away from the daily grind…especially at this time of year.
The sound of waves crashing, the salty breeze, and the warmth of the sun can make for a perfect escape.
A few years ago, when I lived in San Diego…wait, that was more than a few years, more like 10! Gah! I decided to pack up the car and head to the nearby beach for a much-needed day of relaxation.
As I loaded my beach gear, I realized that packing the cooler would be the trickiest part. I wanted to bring some of me and my friends’ favorite snacks and drinks, but I knew they were often calorie-dense and loaded with sugar. As a fitness and nutrition coach, I didn’t want to load us down with junk food, but as I ran through what is expected of “beach snacks,” not a lot of it was nutritious and what was nutritious wasn’t easy to pack along at that time.
So in a predicament (and honestly, a time crunch!), I packed a little bit of everything: sodas, chips, cookies, and a few sandwiches loaded with deli meats and cheeses. A couple of chocolate granola bars and a bottle of sweet iced tea also made it into the cooler. It wasn’t until I was lounging on my beach chair, digging into my snacks, that I realized just how calorie-laden my selections were and how bloated and sluggish they made us all feel by that evening.
As much as I enjoyed my treats, I couldn’t ignore the nagging thought that I could have made better choices for our group. So, I started brainstorming ways to pack a cooler with snacks and treats that aligned more with my nutritional goals, focusing on macro-friendly options without sacrificing flavor.
Here are a few tips for creating a more balanced beach cooler:
1. Protein Power-Ups: Swap out deli meats for leaner options like turkey or chicken breast. Consider packing hard-boiled eggs or a small container of Greek yogurt for extra protein. Protein bars or shakes can also be a great, portable option.
2. Fresh and Crisp: Include fresh fruits and vegetables. Sliced apples, berries, and grapes make for refreshing snacks. Pairing veggies like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and cherry tomatoes with hummus can provide a satisfying crunch.
3. Whole Grains: Instead of white breads for your sandwiches or potato chips, opt for whole grain or multigrain options. Whole grain wraps or rice cakes can be paired with nut butter or avocado for a tasty treat.
4. Hydration Station: Replace sugary drinks with water or unsweetened beverages. Infuse your water with lemon, lime, or cucumber slices for added flavor without the calories. Want a little alcohol? No judgment here! Opt for low-cal seltzers or light beers instead of heavier craft beers.
5. Healthy Fats: Include snacks with healthy fats, such as nuts or seeds. A small bag of mixed nuts or a container of guacamole with veggie sticks can be both satisfying and nutritious.
More tips for your next travel trip:
Download my free guide Macro Friendly Cooler Snacks to help you grocery shop and pack for your next trip a little easier!