Chef Seamus Mullen is back on our blog giving us some advice on a common question we ask ourselves every summer – how do we stick to a clean/healthy diet while out and about or traveling? Seamus is dedicated to staying active and energized, even though he travels frequently. Read on to see his advice!
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Summer is always a time for fun excursions and road trips. As much fun as a good road trip can be, it often means making bad food decisions simply because there are rarely good food options to be had. It takes a little extra work, but planning in advance can make all the difference.
Whenever I hit the road, or even jump on a plane for that matter, I always take some time before leaving and plan out some nutritious food options to take along with me. Finger food is helpful, especially if we’re in the car, but unfortunately many finger food options aren’t that healthy for us.
I always try to pack a picnic and, rather than trying to shovel in some food while we’re on the road, I prefer to take a quick stop, find a patch of grass or a picnic table and have a civilized quick meal. My go-to snacks for a road trip always involve a smoothie, blended up with summer fruit and Lifeway Kefir, packed in my cooler in a mason jar.
And I always love having some fresh veggies and a dip to go with them. It’s super easy to prepare, there aren’t any rules, and it packs up so easily! Here’s an idea of something that travels well, is super nutritious, and tastes great!
Summer Crudité with Garlic and Herb Dip
- 4 cups of mixed, cut raw vegetables like:
- Carrot sticks
- Fennel
- Cherry tomatoes
- Radishes
- Celery
- String beans
- Sugar snap peas
For the herb dip:
- 1 cup Lifeway Organic Whole Milk Plain Kefir
- ½ cup soft goat cheese
- 1 sprig of dill
- 1 sprig of basil
- 1 sprig of tarragon
- 3 sprigs of chives
- ½ clove garlic
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Sea salt and fresh pepper
In a food processor combine all ingredients for the herb dip and pulse to process. Set aside in a portable, sealable glass container. Pack in cooler with cut, mixed veggies and you’re all set!
– Seamus Mullen