Poolside Bites

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By Stephenie Cox-

The Houston heat and sweltering humidity can only mean one thing – it’s time for a pool party! Houstonians won’t be stopped by the heat that we adoringly refer to as summertime. Our backyard and neighborhood pools are ready for us to invite our friends and family for a delightful cooling off experience.

In addition to planning a perfect cannonball to splash your guests, a light and refreshing menu is the ideal way to appreciate the summer’s best in show for fruits and veggies. Try a few of these ideas at your next pool get together, and stay cool and refreshed.

Watermelon Fruit Wands

Watermelon is a staple at any summer get together. We have hollowed them out and used them as bowls, made cocktails out of the juice, and they make fabulous bases for art carving. But short and sweet is on my mind – more time to enjoy poolside and still have the staple make a grand entrance. Cut the watermelon into two inch thick slices, and use your favorite cookie cutter to make shapes. Add berries to the skewer, and place in a vase on your table.

Single  Serving Crudité

No pool side event would be complete without a few perfectly tasty crudité. Instead of opening up a grocery prepared veggie tray, try your hand at a simple yet effective veggie cup. Single servings are sure to be a hit – no unwanted double dippers! Your favorite veggies with your favorite dipping sauce. What could be better?

Skinny Pool Side Dip

It’s all the creamy sinfulness you crave without guilt later. Mix one chopped red pepper, two seeded and chopped jalapeños, three ears cooked and cut corn (or two cups thawed frozen corn), 8 ounces of fat-free cream cheese softened, ½ cup of low fat greek yogurt and one packet of Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning dip mix. Chill, and serve with tortilla chips or triscuits, and you have a crowd pleaser.

Dolphin Play

For a little playful fun to entertain young and old, try this whimsical fruit creation with a dolphin ready for fun. It’s a simple idea but promises to deliver happy faces and giggles. This requires only bananas, grapes, serving cups, a marker and a happy heart.

Caprese Pops

Cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, a garlic clove, fresh ground pepper, a dash of sea salt, balsamic vinegar and pearl Bocconcini balls are all you need to create Caprese Pops. Just chop the basil and garlic, and mix with balsamic vinegar, fresh ground pepper and salt to taste. Then, marinate the cheese. Hollow out the cherry tomatoes, and add the marinated Bocconcini, and skewer them. You have an old favorite appetizer made new again.