From sliders and grilled skewers to fruity mocktails and ice cream pops, these pool party food ideas are perfect for sunny days and outdoor snacking.
Nothing says summer quite like a backyard pool, good company and shareable snacks that are easy to pass around. This collection of pool party food ideas brings together cold finger foods, pitcher-ready drinks and frozen treats, just right for long afternoons outdoors. From sliders and fruit skewers to no-bake goodies and icy lemonade, these summer party snacks deliver big flavor with simple prep.
We chose light and flexible recipes, with textures that hold up in the heat. Many of these dishes make the most of summer produce, like juicy watermelon, crisp cucumber and sweet mango in every bite, offering sweet and savory options for both kids and adults. Pasta salads are tossed with fresh veggies and crumbled feta cheese, while tropical slaws bring crunch to pulled pork or chicken sliders. You’ll also find easy finger food for pool parties, including grilled kabobs and snack mixes, and refreshing poolside beverages like raspberry iced tea and other fruity drinks. For dessert, frozen parfait pops, coconut Tres Leches cupcakes and ice cream cake offer a cool finish that won’t melt away the fun.
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Summer Dessert Pizza
From the Recipe Creator:
Especially refreshing during the summer months, this dessert lets fresh fruit shine. —Ida Ruth Wenger, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 176 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 29mg cholesterol, 118mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
Start off with these easy summer appetizers.
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Chicken Skewers
From the Recipe Creator:
Chicken skewers with tender chunks of chicken and garden-fresh veggies are easy to assemble and are always a hit at parties. —Margaret Allen, Abingdon, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 skewer: 244 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 421mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable.
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Fruit Skewers
From the Recipe Creator:
We came up with this fresh and fruity summer snack idea. It's easy to make ahead and carry to the ballpark, beach or playground, and the cinnamon-spiced yogurt dip adds a fun touch kids love. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 kabob with 2 tablespoons dip: 147 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 143mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
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Corn on the Cob
From the Recipe Creator:
The trick to serving the best corn on the cobs? Cooking it for just the right amount of time until it reaches that desired crunchy and juicy texture—then keeping the toppings simple with butter and salt. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 ear of corn: 123 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 21mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 5g protein.
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Pulled Pork Sandwiches
From the Recipe Creator:
The slow cooker not only makes this an easy meal, it keeps the pork tender, saucy and loaded with flavor. —Beki Kosydar-Krantz, Mayfield, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 402 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 1181mg sodium, 56g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 2g fiber), 29g protein.
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Watermelon Feta Flag Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Our family celebrates the Fourth of July with a watermelon salad that resembles the flag. Here’s an all-American centerpiece that’s truly red, white and blue. —Jan Whitworth, Roebuck, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup salad: 140 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 256mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
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Guacamole
From the Recipe Creator:
Juicy tomatoes, spicy jalapeno pepper, tangy red onion and the refreshing juice from limes are mashed with creamy avocados to make a traditional and versatile guacamole dip. Put it on tacos and nachos, or pair it with plain ol' chips for an added flavor of richness. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 31 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 76mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 0 protein.
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Tropical Island Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
The marinade makes a savory statement in this all-time-favorite chicken recipe that I served at our son's pirate-themed birthday party. It smelled so good on the grill that guests could hardly wait to try a piece! —Sharon Hanson, Franklin, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 296 calories, 21g fat (4g saturated fat), 66mg cholesterol, 1199mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 23g protein.
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Hummus
From the Recipe Creator:
Hummus is my go-to appetizer when I need something quick, easy and impressive. Over the years I've picked up a number of tricks that make this the best hummus recipe you'll ever have. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 250 calories, 19g fat (3g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 361mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 5g fiber), 7g protein.
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Caprese Skewers
From the Recipe Creator:
Trade in the usual veggie platter for these fun kabobs. In addition to preparing these for get-togethers, I often make these as snacks for my family. And because assembly is so easy, the kids often ask to help. —Christine Mitchell, Glendora, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 kabob: 44 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 10mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat.
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Summertime Fun Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
Use this basic sugar cookie recipe to make the perfect poolside treat. Kids (and adults) won't be able to get enough. —Coleen Walter, Bancroft, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 cookie: 174 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 33mg cholesterol, 107mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
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Maryland Corn Pops
From the Recipe Creator:
Fresh-picked sweet corn is a big thing in Maryland. Here’s my homespun version of Mexican street corn that brings in local bay flavors. —Kristie Schley, Severna Park, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1 corn pop: 164 calories, 14g fat (3g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 336mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
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Strawberry Watermelon Lemonade
From the Recipe Creator:
The nutrition department at my local hospital inspired me to create this refreshing summer sipper. I tweaked their recipe slightly to create this drink full of sweet-tart flavor. —Dawn Lowenstein, Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 119 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 7mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (30g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
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Hot Dog Sliders
From the Recipe Creator:
Turn all-American hot dogs into a fun international treat at your next casual party. They get three special treatments in this recipe: Chicago-style, Bavarian and south of the border. Bet you can’t eat just one! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 slider (calculated without toppings): 86 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 214mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
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Coconut-Rum Cake Pops
From the Recipe Creator:
Plan your own tropical escape with these surprisingly light-tasting pops. Angel food cake is a nice change of pace.
Nutrition Facts:
1 cake pop: 188 calories, 8g fat (7g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 92mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (25g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
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Orzo Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
I’m always looking for fun ways to use the fresh veggies that come in my Community Supported Agriculture box, and this summer orzo salad is one of my favorite creations. I like to improvise with whatever I have on hand, so feel free to do the same here! —Shayna Marmar, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 291 calories, 15g fat (4g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 501mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 11g protein.
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Grilled Sausages with Summer Vegetables
From the Recipe Creator:
After 30 years of camping, we've come up with an arsenal of surefire recipes. Our grilled sausage with veggies would be a superstar at a potluck. —Nancy Daugherty, Cortland, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 sausage with 1 cup vegetables: 362 calories, 22g fat (9g saturated fat), 60mg cholesterol, 1099mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 3g fiber), 17g protein.
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Summer Celebration Ice Cream Cake
From the Recipe Creator:
I wanted to make my youngest son an ice cream cake one year for his summer birthday, as he prefers ice cream to the traditional cake. He picked the flavors and I decided to try my favorite brownie recipe as a crust. It worked! —Krista Frank, Rhododendron, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 505 calories, 24g fat (14g saturated fat), 79mg cholesterol, 133mg sodium, 71g carbohydrate (53g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein.
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Summer Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
I came up with this recipe to show appreciation to all the teachers at my son’s school. The dish had to be as special as the teachers, who always go the extra mile for their students. I think this salad did the trick! It's hearty, earthy, sweet and loaded with nothing but good stuff. —Ramya Ramamurthy, Fremont, California
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 269 calories, 15g fat (2g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 700mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 3g fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 fat.
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Refreshing Raspberry Iced Tea
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe makes two gallons, so it’s a sensible thirst-quenching choice for a springtime party when you have a medium-size crowd. It freezes well, making it a timesaver for party prep. —Arlana Hendricks Manchester, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 108 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 7mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (27g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
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Creamy Layered Blueberry Ice Pops
From the Recipe Creator:
These delicious ice pops can also be made with raspberries or blackberries. The rosemary sprig and lemon zest bring another layer of flavor. The pops are quick, easy, kid-friendly and freezable. —Gloria Bradley, Naperville, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 pop: 104 calories, 3g fat (3g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 0 sodium, 19g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 1g fiber), 0 protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
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Summer Splash Chicken Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
When it’s too hot to eat inside, I head out to the patio. Shred some rotisserie chicken and toss with mango, watermelon and grapes for an ooh-ahh healthy chicken salad. —Barbara Spitzer, Lodi, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup chicken mixture with 1 cup lettuce and 1 tablespoon pistachios: 262 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 58mg cholesterol, 249mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (22g sugars, 3g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1 fruit, 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
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Jersey-Style Hot Dogs
From the Recipe Creator:
I grew up in northern New Jersey, where hot dogs with grilled potatoes were born. It's a combo you’ll love. —Suzanne Banfield, Basking Ridge, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 453 calories, 24g fat (8g saturated fat), 35mg cholesterol, 1261mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 4g fiber), 13g protein.
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Mini S’mores
From the Recipe Creator:
Want to sink your teeth into s’mores all year long? Here’s the answer! Just combine marshmallow creme, chocolate and graham crackers for an awesome bite.—Stephanie Tewell, Elizabeth, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 145 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 66mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
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Pomegranate Splash Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
The sparkling pomegranate gems make this salad irresistibly beautiful. My family loves it at holiday gatherings when pomegranates are in season. Even the children can't get enough of this antioxidant-rich delight. —Emily Jamison, Champaign, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup with about 4-1/2 teaspoons vinaigrette: 164 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 140mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 starch.
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Peach Crisp Parfait Pops
From the Recipe Creator:
My little ones love fruit crisps and ice pops. I created a healthy and delicious treat that combines the two. For a sweet addition, use cinnamon sticks in place of the wooden pop sticks. —Carmell Childs, Orangeville, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1 pop: 167 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 40mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 5g fiber), 10g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1/2 fat-free milk.
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Raspberry Lemonade Concentrate
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's a concentrate that allows you to enjoy a refreshing summer beverage any time of year. Sweet raspberries balance the tartness from lemons. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 319 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 20mg sodium, 83g carbohydrate (78g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
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Honey-Glazed Chicken Wings
From the Recipe Creator:
I received this easy wing recipe from a cousin on Vancouver Island during a visit there a few years ago. They're an appealing appetizer, but also a favorite for Sunday lunch with rice and a salad. —Joan Airey, Rivers, Manitoba
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 86 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 380mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein.
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Strawberry Corn Salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe makes art in a bowl! All the colors of summer are captured in this salsa with a fresh, light flavor perfect for snacking between swims or to kick off a backyard barbecue. This can be served with chips or alone as a side dish. —Catherine Goza, Charlotte, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup (calculated without chips): 49 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 56mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
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Shrimp Sandwich
From the Recipe Creator:
Our family took a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Norway, where we got to eat incredible shrimp sandwiches like these. The crustier the bread, the better. —Monica Kolva, Millville, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich (calculated without lettuce and tomato): 534 calories, 31g fat (6g saturated fat), 156mg cholesterol, 992mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 27g protein.
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Pina Colada Molded Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
My gelatin ring gets a tropical twist from coconut, pineapple and macadamia nuts. It's a wonderful anytime treat. Now that I'm retired from teaching, I have more time for kitchen experiments. —Carol Gillespie, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 331 calories, 20g fat (11g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 82mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (33g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
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Mojito Slush
From the Recipe Creator:
Whether you're splashing poolside or watching the kids inside, this slushy beverage has just the right balance of minty crispness and limey tartness that's sure to tingle your taste buds. —Jessica Ring, Chicago, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 278 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 28mg sodium, 61g carbohydrate (59g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
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Teriyaki Shish Kabobs
From the Recipe Creator:
When I was a teenager, my father worked for an airline, and my family lived on the island of Guam in the South Pacific. A friend of my mother gave her this tangy-sweet recipe, and we enjoyed it often. Now I make it for my family, and they're big fans as well. —Suzanne Pelegrin, Ocala, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 306 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 46mg cholesterol, 1203mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (32g sugars, 2g fiber), 27g protein.
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Watermelon Shark
From the Recipe Creator:
Take a bite out of summer boredom with this kid-friendly food project. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup (calculated without candies): 129 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 7mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (28g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fruit, 1/2 starch.
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Crispy Barbecue Chicken Tenders
From the Recipe Creator:
These crunch-coated chicken tenders are a little sweet, a little tangy and a whole lot of fun. In half an hour, your family's new favorite dish is ready to eat. When I have extra time, I roast garlic and add it to the sauce. —Andreann Geise, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked chicken with 2 tablespoons sauce: 411 calories, 27g fat (6g saturated fat), 109mg cholesterol, 492mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 31g protein.
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Watermelon Mint Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
I invented this refreshing fruit salad one sultry afternoon while my friends were gathered around my pool. It was quick to prepare and disappeared from their plates even quicker. The kids loved it too! —Antoinette DuBeck, Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 56 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 2mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 fruit.
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Coconut Tres Leches Cupcakes
From the Recipe Creator:
Three types of milk wonderfully moisten these cupcakes. Toasted coconut on top adds an elegant touch. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 cupcake: 342 calories, 16g fat (11g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 226mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (33g sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein.
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Strawberry, Cucumber & Honeydew Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Strawberries and cucumbers together—I just love this combination! We used to eat a lot of cucumbers growing up in upstate New York. We'd get them, along with strawberries and melons, from fruit and veggie stands to make this sweet and tangy salad. —Melissa Mccabe, Long Beach, California
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 56 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 6mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fruit.
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Shrimp Kabobs
From the Recipe Creator:
Marinating the shrimp in Italian dressing adds wonderful flavor to these colorful shrimp kabobs.—Sharon Aweau, Kapolei, Hawaii
Nutrition Facts:
2 kabobs: 260 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 207mg cholesterol, 416mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 31g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable.
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Frosty Watermelon Ice
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's a fun twist on watermelon. It's so refreshing on a summer day, and you don't have to worry about seeds while you're enjoying it. —Kaaren Jurack, Manassas, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 81 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 3mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fruit, 1/2 starch.
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Chicken & Caramelized Onion Grilled Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
My grilled cheese sandwich combines chicken with sweet caramelized onions, red peppers, Swiss cheese and sourdough bread. It’s oh-my goodness. —Kadija Bridgewater, Boca Raton, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 675 calories, 36g fat (12g saturated fat), 97mg cholesterol, 1189mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 3g fiber), 35g protein.
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S’mookies
From the Recipe Creator:
S'mores are one of my favorite desserts. I wanted to create a cookie to replace the graham cracker—that's when my s'mookie was born. Just as delicious as the classic.—Maria Davis, Hermosa Beach, California
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Cashew-Curry Chicken Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband and I fell hard for the curried chicken salad from our grocery store deli, and I knew I could find a way to make something similar. This greek yogurt chicken salad has become one of our favorites to take on trips to the beach. —Janine Cooper-Moren, Portland, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 287 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 60mg cholesterol, 267mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (20g sugars, 2g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fruit.
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Sand Dollar Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
Before the military relocated our family, my children had never lived near the ocean. I came up with this special treat with a beach theme—it made our move even more fun!—Michelle Duncan of Callaway, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 cookie: 240 calories, 16g fat (10g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 227mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
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Orange Juice Spritzer
From the Recipe Creator:
Here’s a zippy twist on regular orange juice. It is not too sweet, and it's refreshing with any breakfast or brunch entree. —Michelle Krzmarzick, Torrance, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 103 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 9mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (23g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
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Pulled Pork Sliders
From the Recipe Creator:
One of our favorite pulled pork recipes combines the heat of chipotle peppers with a cool tropical coleslaw. The robust flavors make these sliders a big hit with guests. —Kadija Bridgewater, Boca Raton, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 265 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 430mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 2g fiber), 16g protein.
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Orange Beef Lettuce Wraps
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a lighter version of a restaurant favorite. I also recommend trying these wraps with ground chicken or turkey.—Robin Haas, Cranston, Rhode Island
Nutrition Facts:
1 wrap: 250 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 53mg cholesterol, 462mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 2g fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 lean meat.
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Refreshing Tropical Fruit Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Want a family-friendly side dish? This colorful medley is kid-pleasing and a great way to encourage healthy eating. —Sharon Ricci, Spooner, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 120 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 3mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (22g sugars, 4g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fruit.
Pool Party Food Ideas FAQ
What are easy finger foods for a summer pool party?
The easiest finger foods for a summer pool party are bite-sized, mess-free and heat-friendly, perfect for casual snacking between dips. Mini sandwiches, fruit skewers, veggie sticks with dip or sliders on soft rolls are quick to throw together if you want to offer something a bit heartier. Add color and variety to the spread with deviled eggs or cheese cubes with cherry tomatoes. Dishes like stuffed mushrooms, meatballs and cookie bars work well as make-ahead, easy appetizers for a crowd that can hold up at room temperature. To keep things kid-friendly, serve trail mix or seasoned popcorn that’s easy to grab and go.
How do I keep food fresh during outdoor parties?
Combine smart storage with a few cooling tricks to keep food fresh at outdoor parties. Serve smaller portions and keep the rest chilled in a cooler or insulated bag. Chilled salads and dips stay fresher in shallow bowls over trays of ice, especially creamy dips or mayo-based salads like potato or coleslaw. Sturdier options like grilled kabobs, pasta salads, couscous with vegetables and fruit parfaits can hold up better in warm weather. Mesh covers or lid containers help protect food from bugs and dust. Portable tools such as food tents, insulated carriers or other outdoor picnic items can help maintain temperature and reduce spoilage, which is ideal for when the party lasts all day. If you’re planning on bringing food to cook at the party, pack raw meats and ready-to-eat dishes in separate, leakproof containers to prevent cross-contamination.
What are the best beverages for a pool party?
Pool party beverages are cold, refreshing and easy to serve by the pitcher or cooler. Big batch drinks like citrus spritzers, flavored lemonades and herbal iced teas are classics. Frozen cocktails or mocktails made with fresh juice bring a chill to hot afternoons. Punches with watermelon, berries or mint and mixed berry sangria make refreshing poolside beverages that double as colorful centerpieces. For kids, serve homemade drinks like infused water or fruit slushies and keep everything chilled in dispensers or ice-filled buckets for easy self-serve sipping.
