We're Packing Your Beach Cooler with 7 Refreshing Options

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Photo credit: Rachael Ray Show Aired June 09, 2015

by Lisa Lozano

If you’re heading to the beach this summer, you’re going to want to bring along a cooler stuffed with goodies. Want to skip the boring old sandwiches and packaged snacks and sodas? We’ve got seven delicious options that pair perfectly with a day at the beach!

First, you’re going to want some snacks. Because swimming and playing in the sand is hard work!

Graham Elliot's Curried Almonds

Rachael Ray Show

Graham’s flavorful roasted nuts will give you the burst of energy you need for water sports, but won’t weigh you down, because he substitutes egg whites for the butter or sugar used in some other roasted nut recipes.

Pita Chips or Sliced Cucumber and Hummus

Rachael Ray Show

When you’re out in the sun, you want light and fresh snacks. This homemade eggplant hummus is super easy to make, and super nutritious. You can serve with pita chips or sliced cucumber for an even lighter treat.

Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips

Rachael Ray Show

This is a fun and refreshing alternative to a traditional salsa, and will get gobbled up by kids and grownups alike.

Next, what would a beach trip be without sandwiches? Here are two delicious and nutritious options.

Dr. Travis Stork's Broccoli and Turkey Salad

Rachael Ray Show

This light and nutritious wrap is light, portable and easy to eat on the go. Even better, it’s so delicious your family and friends won’t even know it’s good for them!

Major Grey Chutney Chicken Salad

Rachael Ray Show

This spicy, sweet chicken salad is guilt-free because it’s made with Greek yogurt rather than mayo. With ginger, garlic and a mango chutney mixed in, it’s bursting with light and fresh flavor.

Tip: If you want to make it even easier on yourself, just pack this chicken salad in individual portions and bring along forks – no bread or assembly required!

And, of course you need a beverage to cool down. We have two refreshing suggestions:

Kara Vogt's Cucumber Lemon-Lime Mint Spritzer

Rachael Ray Show

This delicious lemonade-esque fizzy drink is the perfect antidote to the hot sun. Sit back in your beach chair and sip away!

Andrew Zimmern’s Cucumber-Mint Lemonade

Rachael Ray Show

This lemonade adds cucumber and mint and will quench even the deepest thirst.

What does your family usually take to the beach? Tell us in the comments.

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