We All Scream for Healthy and Tasty Summer Treats
Four Healthy Ice Cream Recipes
By Julien Her, quality care coordinator at Network Health
Originally published on 7/16/2021 at 1:40 p.m.
As we make it to mid-July, one of the hottest months of the year, there is no better way to celebrate the Wisconsin summer than to observe National Ice Cream Month. Surprised that we’re celebrating a holiday centering on a high-sugar snack? Don’t be.
At Network Health, we love ice cream and the options we have in America’s Dairyland (plenty of sorbets, lemon ice and gelato, as well). It’s hard to deny, however, that ice cream’s standard form is one that should be eaten in moderation. Yes, even in July.
So, today we want to look at some healthier ways to enjoy this summer staple. We’ve put together four simple recipes to allow you to dive head-first into celebrating.
First things first, these recipes require either a food processor or a blender, so if it’s been a while since you used one, you may want to make sure you’ve dusted off and cleaned whichever appliance you’ll use.
Strawberry and banana ice cream recipe
Quick and easy, this recipe is one that doesn’t require a day of planning or prep. Simply throw some frozen bananas and strawberries in either your blender or food processor and whip up. As the frozen banana is broken down, you’ll notice a familiar texture taking shape.
Chocolate ice cream recipe
Craving something creamier and less fruity? Try this recipe. Like above, you’re going to start with frozen bananas, but instead of adding strawberries to the mix, add some cocoa powder, peanut butter (almond/cashew butter also works great) and a little bit of water to help with blending and smoothing. Just like the first recipe, you’ll be surprised how much this tastes like dairy ice cream.
Strawberry ice cream recipe
Even up north in Wisconsin, it’s hard not to let the warm days of summer whisk you away to that tropical feeling.
Ingredients
16 oz. frozen strawberries
14 oz. coconut milk
¼ tsp. liquid Stevia (available in most natural foods/keto sections)
1 ½ tsp. lemon juice
- Start by blending all ingredients together.
- After texture begins to smooth, remove from blender/food processor and freeze for 30 minutes.
Peach ice cream recipe
This recipe requires an ice cream maker. Beyond that, it’s fairly simple.
Ingredients
2-3 ripe peaches, cut into chunks with pits removed
¼ cup of honey (substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan recipe)
2 ½ cups Greek yogurt (substitute with coconut, soy or nut yogurt for a dairy-free recipe)
- Start by peeling the peaches, cut lengthwise to remove the pits and cut into cubes/chunks.
- Mix honey and Greek yogurt in with peaches in your blender/food processor.
- Once blended and smoothed, add the mixture to the ice cream maker and churn for 30 minutes.
Enjoy a sweet summer in Wisconsin
Wisconsin summers are unique. We’re lucky and blessed to live in a region with so much going on, so much natural beauty and—of course—plenty of delicious dairy treats to enjoy all summer long. Celebrating occasions like National Ice Cream Month, however, means finding ways to put a healthy twist on our favorite summer treats, and eating traditional ice cream in moderation.
These recipes should empower you to eat great and feel great all summer long (pro tip: these recipes can also be made in the winter, but you didn’t hear that from us).
For more information on how your Wisconsin-based health plan can help you get the most out of summer and every season, contact us today.
