Summer is just around the corner so if your family is like mine that typically means; cook outs, barbecues, potato salads, pasta salads, ice cream and you know all those fabulous tasting carbs.

I think the key thing to remember is moderation!! You can enjoy those fattening foods once in a while in a small portion! You certainly don’t want to deprive yourself of your favorite foods but you don’t want to indulge every week! I’ve designed a few menu items to bring along with you that are healthy and fun for summer time! Your friends and family will surely be impressed with the flavor packed punch!

These are actually protein bars that are mistaken for desserts!

(this you can add any of your favorites or leave out what you don’t like, it’s a fool proof recipe)

1 cup natural Natural Peanut Butter (creamy or smooth)

For those who have a peanut allergy I suggest almond butter

1 cup Honey or light agave nectar

1 cup Bob’s Red Mill steel cut oats

1 cup diced Apricots or any dried fruit

1 cup sliced Almonds or walnuts

3 scoops chocolate Protein Powder

¼ Cup Coconut

Cinnamon

Directions:

1) In medium size pot, heat Honey & Peanut Butter on stove on medium heat until texture is runny.

2) Mix in Apricots, Nuts, Oatmeal, & Protein Powder

3) Stir until all ingredients are well coated

Fold in coconut

4) Grease a 9″x9″ pan with fat free non-stick spray

5) Press in ingredients evenly

6) Cool in fridge for at least 45 minutes

7) Slice & wrap individual bars in foil or plastic wrap

Burgers:

If you’re like me I love myself a good burger on the grill. Let’s take this with a different approach

2 Lb Turkey

Crumbled Goats Cheese

Caramelize onions (1 Large onion) cook ahead and let come to room temperature before assembling burgers

Salt, pepper, garlic powder and rosemary

Mix all of this in a bowl and shape into 4 oz patties.