There is nothing romantic about going on a Valentine’s Day picnic (especially if you’re trying to impress that special someone) and filling up on chips, ham sandwiches, chocolate and scones to then feel like an overstuffed, uncomfortable mess (nothing romantic here). Rest assured it does not have to be like that, here is how to pack a romantic healthy picnic:
- Choose whole or chopped pieces of fresh seasonal fruit instead of packaged sweets. A highly nutritious easy to prepare, throw in and go option. Think apples, peaches, strawberries, grapes, lychees, plums, blueberries etc etc
- Throw in a bag of raw or dry roasted unsalted nuts (or seeds if there is a nut allergy) rather than a bag of chips. Nuts and seeds are high in protein, fibre and fats so snacking on a handful of these is going to make you feel a lot better than a fistful of refined carbed crisps. They are also a fuss free option to just throw in the basket.
- Make your own dips and use fresh cut vegetables instead of processed savoury biscuits. Here are 2 super quick dip ideas: Mash together 1 avocado, juice from 1 freshly squeezed lemon, 1 clove crushed garlic, salt and pepper OR in a food processor blitz 1 can chickpeas, 1 clove garlic, juice from 1 lemon, 1 tablespoon tahini, salt and pepper. Carrot, capsicum, celery and cucumber are all excellent dippers when cut into think stick shaped pieces!
- Utilise leftovers. Don’t stress about trying to come up with some extravagant picnic meals, simply cook up some extra roast veg from dinner, an extra pork chop or whatever meat source you’re having. The next day in a salad bowl combine the roasted vegetables and a bag of leafy greens together. Make a dressing out of olive oil and balsamic vinegar in a small jar. At the picnic it’s now just a matter of getting together a handful of salad mixture, some left-over meat and dressing it. YUM
- Use sparkling water with freshly squeezed lemon juice or whole raspberries soaked in it to drink vs soft drinks and also always choose dark chocolate over milk (I recommend 90% Lindt from the grocery stores). Because let’s face it, what’s a romantic picnic without chocolate!
So there we go, some tips on how to ensure a romantic Valentine’s Day picnic, leaves you with the warm fuzzies and not bloated and gassy.
If you would like help with boosting your nutrition, call Embrace Life to book your appointment with Jess Cheney.
