The good thing about summer is that the heat reduces the craving for heavy and fatty meals. But even with light snacks, you should pay attention to calories and nutritional value. Here are some suggestions for summer snacks for people who are also watching their weight.

 

Shrimps
Shrimps are high in protein and contain little fat. Shrimps also contain a lot of vitamin B12. Grilled shrimps with avocado and cherry tomatoes are a healthy and low-calorie summer snack.

The hotter the temperature, the more the body needs to cool down. Instead of iced lemonade or ice cream, frozen grapes or cherries are a healthy and refreshing snack. Place dark grapes and sweet cherries in the freezer for a few hours. When frozen, the fruit takes on a sorbet-like consistency. The fructose content satisfies the sweet tooth.

Tinned tuna
Tuna is full of protein. Fresh from the fridge, canned tuna is the ideal summer snack, especially when mixed with Greek yoghurt and served on rice crackers.

Watermelon
Watermelon contains a lot of liquid, a bonus on hot summer days. Chilled watermelon therefore provides hydration, refreshes and fills you up. Watermelon contains important e-amino acids, antioxidants and vitamins. A slice of watermelon tastes good with a Greek salad with feta cheese and olives.

Cold soups
Low-calorie soups chilled beautifully are a fantastic meal in summer. Soups with granulated stock and fresh vegetables are best. Puree briefly in a blender, chill and enjoy. The typical gazpacho soup, which is eaten cold, consists of tomatoes, cucumber, onions and garlic.

Greek yoghurt
There is a reason why this yoghurt is so popular: it contains twice as much protein as conventional low-fat yoghurt and therefore has a creamy consistency. Greek yoghurt is just as suitable mixed with fresh fruit as it is with savoury grilled dishes.

Raspberries
Raspberries can be eaten anywhere; they go just as well with breakfast cereals as they do with a summer salad. They contain lots of fibre, antioxidants and vitamins. Raspberries pickled in vinegar make an excellent marinade or salad dressing.

Grilled vegetables
It doesn't always have to be meat when you're having a barbecue, especially if you want to watch your weight. Vegetables are low in calories but high in fibre. They can be eaten with fresh dips and dressings. Courgettes, onions, aubergines, tomatoes, peppers and asparagus are particularly good for grilling. Leftover grilled vegetables can be used in salads or eaten with pita bread.

Green iced tea
Green iced tea has long been appreciated in Asian countries. Nothing is as refreshing as iced green tea with a slice of fresh lemon. Green tea also contains many antioxidants.

Mango
A refreshing fruit drink can be made from fresh mango. The mango contains vitamins and fibre and fills the stomach. Puree mango pieces with ice in a blender and drink. Diced mango goes well with a salad, a spicy sauce or grilled chicken.

Salmon
Salmon contains muscle-building protein and monounsaturated fatty acids. Instead of a heavy meal, serve delicious salmon with vegetables and potatoes.

Pears
Pears contain a lot of pectin, which stimulates the metabolism and promotes weight loss. They also contain 30% more potassium than apples and provide plenty of energy. They are suitable as a snack between meals or as an ingredient in salads.

Salad
When you hear salad, you automatically think of leafy salads. But a summer salad can consist of many fresh vegetables and fruits. Add wholemeal rice or couscous with a flavoursome dressing and you have a full and low-calorie meal. Salads can be customised to suit every taste.