8 Foods Worth Making at Home For Weight Loss This Summer

8 Foods Worth Making at Home For Weight Loss This Summer
Published on: 11/11/2024
8-minute read

The summer season is here, bringing with it backyard barbecues, vacations, and pool parties. While enjoying summer festivities, you don’t have to sacrifice your weight-loss goals. Preparing meals at home with wholesome, nutrient-rich ingredients can help you stay on track and enjoy what you eat.

“Home-cooked meals typically contain fewer calories, added sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats compared to restaurant meals or packaged foods,” says Lexi Endicott, RD, a culinary nutrition specialist with To Taste. Preparing food at home can also save money and help you develop meaningful connections with loved ones.

How to Shift to Homemade Foods
Start small: aim to prepare 3–5 meals or snacks at home each week, suggests Alka Chopra, RD. Use simple recipes and create go-to “formulas” you can customize, advises Abbie Gellman, a registered dietitian and chef in NYC.

Ready to give it a try? Here are eight foods worth making yourself this summer:

1. Fruit Yogurt

Store-bought fruit-flavored yogurts are often high in added sugars. Instead, try making your own chia fruit jam mixed with plain, 0% Greek yogurt.
Recipe:

• Simmer 2 cups of fresh or frozen fruit in a pot for 5 minutes.
• Mash and stir in 2 tablespoons of chia seeds.
• Let cool for 15 minutes, then mix with Greek yogurt.
  Enjoy as a snack, breakfast, or topping for toast.

2. Homemade Granola

Most store-bought granolas are high in sugar. Making your own ensures a healthier option, packed with fiber and nutrients.
Recipe:

• Whisk together 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1/4 cup canola oil, 1/4 cup natural liquid sweetener, and 1/2 tsp salt.
• Add 3 cups oats and 2–3 cups raw nuts.
• Spread on a baking sheet and bake at 250°F (121°C) for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
  Add dark chocolate chips, dried fruit, or coconut flakes after baking.

3. Salad Dressing

DIY salad dressings cut down on added sugars and preservatives.
Recipe:

• Combine olive oil and balsamic vinegar or lemon juice in a 3:1 ratio.
• Add honey and Dijon mustard for creaminess.
  Pro Tip: Use an almost-empty jam jar for a fruity dressing.

4. Protein Bowls

Protein bowls are nutrient-packed and customizable.
Formula:

• Base: quinoa or brown rice.
• Protein: tuna, chickpeas, chicken, etc.
• Veggies: leafy greens, carrots, peppers.
• Dressing: vinaigrette or creamy Greek yogurt.
• Toppings: nuts, feta, salsa.

5. Red Lentil Crepes

Ditch store-bought bread for a low-sodium alternative.
Recipe:

• Soak 1 cup red split lentils in 2 cups water overnight. Blend.
• Heat skillet, add batter, and cook 2–3 minutes per side.
  Enjoy with hummus, cream cheese, or scrambled eggs.

6. Spaghetti Sauce

Avoid added sugars found in store-bought pasta sauces.
Recipe:

• Mix 1 can (15 oz) no-sodium tomato juice, 1 cup marinara, and 1/2 cup strained tomatoes.
• Boil for 15–20 minutes with salt, pepper, and herbs.
  Freeze for future use!

7. Frozen Yogurt

A healthier twist on summer treats.
Recipe:

• Blend 1 1/4 cups frozen fruit, 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, and 1 tbsp collagen powder.
  Pro Tip: Mangoes, peaches, and bananas create a creamy texture.

8. Chocolate Cake

Make your own to control sugar and use quality ingredients.
Ideas:

• Try vegan chocolate lava cakes or a microwavable nut butter and chocolate chip mug cake.

The Bottom Line
Preparing food at home helps you save calories, sodium, and unhealthy fats, and allows you to use fresh, wholesome ingredients. Have a favorite easy recipe? Share it in the comments below!