7 Healthy Summer Snacks for Kids

January 15, 2024

Finding the perfect summer snack for kids can be tricky. You want options that are delicious, nutritious and convenient, and that can feel like a big ask. Whether you’re dealing with a picky eater or a sweets enthusiast, we are breaking down a bunch of tasty options that kids will love, and you can feel good about sharing.

From sweet, fruity treats designed to be enjoyed poolside to protein-packed bites for on-the-go, the kids in your life are bound to love these easy summer options.

Explore these seven healthy snack ideas for kids that will have them asking for more. 

1. Homemade Fruit Popsicles

Homemade fruit popsicles are a go-to snack option for the warmer months. In addition to being sweet and juicy, they can cool kids off on a hot summer day. These healthy frozen treats are nutritious and hydrating. 

You can also customize the ingredients to create the perfect frozen snack for the kids in your life to enjoy on a sunny afternoon. To make your own fruit popsicles at home, you’ll need a few simple ingredients, including:

  • Fruit of your choice.
  • Coconut water, 100% fruit juice or yogurt.
  • Extras like honey, vanilla extract, mint or fresh lemon juice.

With these bits, you can concoct a combination that is creamy, tart or sweet. If the kids in your life like savory flavors, you can also add a light dusting of mild chili lime seasoning for a tangy, citrusy edge. 

You’ll need a few items to put these popsicles together. First, you’ll need either a mixing bowl or a blender. If you are using a blender, you can add all your ingredients and mix them into a smooth batter. A masher and mixing bowl can also work if you want to keep some of those sweet, fruity chunks intact. 

You’ll also need something to freeze the mixture in. You can use one of the following:

  • Popsicle molds
  • Muffin tins
  • Small cups
  • Ice cube trays
  • Small yogurt containers

Lastly, you’ll need sticks or tongue depressors so the kids can easily hold and eat their popsicles. 

Homemade Fruit Popsicles

Measurements will depend on the size of your popsicle molds and the last you’re going for. A good place to start is blending your fruit. From there, you can add a splash of coconut water, juice or yogurt until you achieve your desired texture. 

Pour the mixture into your molds and insert the stick. Then, place the soon-to-be popsicles in the freezer overnight or until firm. You can store these popsicles in an airtight container in your freezer for up to a month, but good luck getting them to last that long!

2. Peanut Butter and Oatmeal Bites

Looking for easy-to-make protein snacks for kids? Peanut butter and oatmeal bites are an excellent choice. Dubbed “energy balls” thanks to their plant-based protein and antioxidants, these bite-sized treats are delicious and made with simple ingredients. They’re a satisfying treat after playing in the pool, going to the beach or running around the yard. 

This recipe is as easy as it gets — all you’ve got to do is combine the following ingredients: 

  • ½ cup of peanut butter
  • 1 cup of old-fashioned oats
  • ⅓ cup of honey or maple syrup
  • ½ cup of mini dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs
  • ½ cup of seeds
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a large bowl. 

Once combined, pop the dough into the freezer for 30 minutes to one hour. Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, grab some dough and roll it into a ball before dropping it into an airtight container. These energy balls will stay good in the freezer for up to three months, or you can keep them in the fridge for easy access during the week. 

Make sure to save this recipe for fall, too — they make delicious healthy kids’ snacks for school. Just pack them in an insulated lunch box, and send kids on their way. 

You can play around with ingredients to make variations of these bite-sized snacks. Experiment with the following ingredients based on what the kids you’re cooking for enjoy: 

  • Cinnamon 
  • Coconut flakes
  • Raisins
  • Chopped nuts
  • Protein powder 

With tons of customization options, you can make gluten-free or low-carb energy bites to fit the needs of every kid. You can also add some pizzazz by rolling the energy balls in colorful sprinkles. 

3. Frozen Yogurt Bark

Yogurt is chock full of nutrients kids need, including probiotics, protein and calcium. It’s also the staple ingredient in this delicious frozen bark recipe. These treats are cold and creamy, making them one of the best summer snacks for kids.

Pour 2 cups of vanilla yogurt over a baking sheet lined with parchment or wax paper, spreading it into an even layer. Sprinkle tasty toppings on top, and place the baking sheet into the freezer for at least three hours. Once the bark is frozen, all that’s left to do is cut the bark into pieces — or break it with your hands. 

There’s no wrong choice when it comes to toppings, but these are some of our favorites:

  • Blueberries
  • Strawberries
  • Raspberries
  • Granola
  • Almonds 
  • Walnuts
  • Chocolate chips
  • Peanut butter drizzle 

You’ll want the kids in your life to eat the frozen yogurt bark while it is cold. Serve it immediately to avoid letting the pieces melt. 

Promptly place any leftover pieces in an airtight container, and pop the container in the freezer until they’re ready to eat again. You can safely keep frozen bark for two to three months, but this sweet treat is best enjoyed within a few days. 

This recipe will give you a simple and delicious vanilla frozen yogurt bark, but you can use any yogurt flavor that the kids in your life love. If you notice your bark is icy, consider using a full-fat yogurt option or freeze-dried fruit on top. 

4. Fruit Spring Rolls

If you want to make a nutritious and fun summer snack for kids, consider giving fruit spring rolls a try. These treats are healthy and really pretty, making them an amazing option for a cookout or pool day. They are perfect for this time of year, and some people even refer to them as “summer rolls.”

You will need a few simple, healthy ingredients for this snack. You can include whatever combination of fruits inside the spring roll that the kids in your life like, such as:

  • Strawberries.
  • Mango.
  • Kiwi.
  • Blueberries.
  • Cherries.
  • Star fruit.
  • Oranges.

The only other ingredient you’ll need is rice paper. If you’re looking for a way to sneak some more leafy greens into your kid’s diet, consider including some baby spinach inside as well. 

While fruit spring rolls are scrumptious on their own, you can also make a fresh dipping sauce to go with them. Some ideas include:

  • Vanilla yogurt.
  • A lemon, lime and honey mixture.
  • Strawberry cream cheese dip.

To assemble your rolls, you’ll need a cutting board, a knife, a serving dish and a bowl of warm water. Begin by cutting your fruit into smaller pieces. If you want to add a special touch, consider cutting some of them into cute shapes like stars or hearts.

When your fruit is ready, start by soaking your rice paper in the bowl of warm water until it is damp on both sides. Add the fruit to the center of the rice paper and carefully fold each side until you form a roll. 

These are cute and healthy snacks for kids that look as good as they taste. 

Watermelon Pizza

5. Watermelon Pizza

Watermelon pizza is another healthy summer snack idea that is sure to be a hit with the kids. Making this juicy and hydrating treat can be a playful afternoon activity for the whole family to enjoy. Ask your kids to join in on the fun!

You’ll need the following ingredients to assemble this snack:

  • A large watermelon
  • Yogurt
  • Sliced fruit
  • Maple syrup or honey

You can choose whatever type of fruit the kids in your life love most. Some of the best fruit pairings with watermelon include the following:

  • Strawberries
  • Bananas
  • Mango
  • Pineapple
  • Blueberries 
  • Kiwi

To get started, grab a sharp kitchen knife and a cutting board. Cut the watermelon into discs by slicing it crosswise. Each piece should be about two to three inches thick. Place this slice on a large plate. 

Scoop enough yogurt onto your watermelon piece to create an even layer, similar to pizza sauce. Then, add all of your favorite fruit toppings. A drizzle of maple syrup or honey adds an extra sweet twist. If you are interested in having a small crunch, you can also sprinkle some granola on top of your watermelon pizza. Kids will love decorating their own plates. 

Once you’ve finished crafting your masterpiece, use a pizza cutter to make the perfect slices. 

You can also make a more savory version of this snack using feta cheese, mint leaves and a drizzle of olive oil. Picky eaters may not enjoy this variation as much, but kids feeling adventurous could find a new favorite. 

Watermelon pizza can be stored in an airtight container in your refrigerator for a few days. However, it is best to eat your slices right after they’re prepared.

6. Veggie Muffins

When looking for healthier snacks for kids, especially those who don’t get their recommended daily serving of fruits and vegetables, veggie muffins are a yummy choice. You can pack these small but mighty treats with nutritious fruits and vegetables that kids will hardly notice. 

You can alter your ingredients depending on your kids’ unique taste preferences. We are sharing two veggie muffin recipes — one that is a bit sweeter and one that is on the savory side. They’re a tasty snack on their own, or you can serve them alongside turkey slices, nuts and cheese for a more satisfying treat. 

Sweet Veggie Muffins

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a food processor to combine the following ingredients, pulsing until you’re left with a thick puree. 

  • ½ cup of steamed broccoli
  • 1 shredded zucchini
  • 1 ½ medium shredded carrots
  • ½ of a chopped apple
  • 1 medium banana
  • ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce

Next, mix these ingredients in a medium bowl: 

  • 1 cup of whole wheat flour
  • 1 cup of all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon of baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon of salt
  • ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon of cinnamon

In another bowl, beat the following wet ingredients:

  • ½ cup of sugar
  • 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter (softened)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup of plain Greek yogurt

Combine the fruit and veggie puree with the wet ingredients and mix well. Then, add the dry ingredients to the mixture. 

Once combined, spray your standard muffin tin with cooking spray, or line the tin with muffin cups. Scoop the mixture into the pan, filling the cups about ¾ full. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. 

7 Healthy Summer Snacks for Kids

Savory Veggie Muffins

For more savory muffins, you’ll also preheat your oven to 375 degrees. From there, you need to do is combine the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup of grated carrot
  • 1 cup of finely chopped broccoli
  • 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 ½ cups milk
  • ¼ cup of melted butter
  • 2 lightly beaten eggs
  • 1 cup of cornmeal
  • 1 cup of whole wheat flour
  • 1 teaspoon of baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon of baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon of salt. 

Spray a standard muffin tin with cooking spray or line the tin with muffin cups. Fill each cup about ¾ of the way full, and bake for around 18-20 minutes. When a toothpick comes out clean, your muffins are ready to go!

7. Salata’s Kids Meals

If you are looking for a healthy on-the-go kids’ snack this summer, turn to the Salata menu. Kids 10 and younger can order a kids meal from Salata Salad Kitchen. Kids can choose up to three ingredients like vegetables, nuts and fruits, as well as a protein option like chicken. Then, they can pick a dressing or dipping sauce, a lemonade and either bread or a cookie to complete their snack.

For example, kids can choose a meal like this:

  • Chicken
  • Carrots
  • Apples
  • Buttermilk ranch dressing
  • Chocolate chip cookie
  • Peach Lemonade

Or, they can pick something like this: 

  • Steak
  • Cucumber
  • Strawberries
  • Honey mustard
  • Croissant
  • Raspberry Lemonade

The possibilities are endless! Salata kids meals allow children to choose whichever four ingredients they want to snack on. They are packaged together in a convenient container that makes on-the-go travel simple. Kids will love being able to customize their meals and pick out their favorite food items. They may even feel ready to try something new.

Explore the Delicious Menu From Salata Today

Explore the Delicious Menu From Salata Today

At Salata, we make finding a tasty, healthy meal simple. We are your kitchen away from home. When you want a convenient and nutritious snack for your child, turn to our menu. 

You can personalize the Kids Meal with or without protein, depending on your little one’s unique preferences. With more than 50 different fresh toppings and a wide range of signature dressing options available, creating a salad or wrap that is tailored to your taste is fun and easy. 

Are you craving a healthy snack? Check out the Salata menu, and start your order today!

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