Outdoor adventures are slowly gaining popularity as the go-to family activity. And according to reports, about 10.1 million American households went on a camping adventure last 2020. That means people are showing interest in getting in touch with nature.
One of the best things about camping is that you can finally unplug your gadgets and take a break from your hectic daily life. For some, it’s an excellent opportunity to reconnect with their family and friends. But whether you’re camping with your loved ones or going solo, there’s one thing you need to consider before heading out — your food.
Camping food doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, there are a lot of easy and healthy camping meal ideas that you can try. So, if you’re planning your next outdoor adventure, here are some recipes you can add to your menu.
Grilled Plant-based Burger
A classic burger will never go out of style. But with all the health concerns with eating meat, it’s time to try plant-based burgers. This dish is perfect for campers looking for a healthier yet indulging meal option.
A grilled plant-based burger is a delicious alternative to your regular beef burger. It’s also a great protein, fiber, and healthy fats source. Plus, it contains no cholesterol and has a lower saturated fat content than meat burgers.
To make your grilled plant-based burger, you can start by mixing cooked grains, vegetables, and beans in a bowl. Then, add some breadcrumbs, spices, and salt. Once everything is combined well, shape them into patties.
After that, preheat your grill over medium heat and coat it with oil. Grill the patties as you would with regular burgers. Serve your burgers on a toasted bun with your favorite condiments and toppings. You can also add some grilled vegetables to the side. It’s one of the best camping meals you can prepare.
Vegan Waffles
If you’re tagging along children on your camping trip, you need to have some easy and tasty breakfast recipes on your menu. And one of the best camping breakfast ideas you can try is vegan waffles.
Waffles are a crowd favorite, and they’re perfect for campers who love comfort food. Plus, they’re super easy to make. All you need is a waffle iron and some essential ingredients, and you’re good to go.
But making a vegan alternative might seem a bit challenging, especially if you’re used to using eggs and milk in your waffle batter. But don’t worry, there are a lot of ingredient substitutes you can use. For instance, you can replace milk with almond milk or soy milk. And instead of using eggs, you can try using ripe bananas or applesauce.
When making vegan waffles, it’s essential to use a non-stick waffle iron to avoid sticking and burning. You can also spray it with oil to be sure. And once your waffles are done, top them off with fresh fruits, maple syrup, or powdered sugar. These tasty treats are sure to make your camping trip more enjoyable.
Campfire Charcuterie
A romantic camping trip is incomplete without a cheesy charcuterie board. This dish is perfect for couples who want to enjoy a night under the stars while munching on some delicious snacks.
A charcuterie board typically includes cheese, meat, fruits, and crackers. But since you’re making a healthy version, you must find substitutes for the meat and cheese. Luckily, it’s easy to find vegan cheese makers that offer various flavors. As for the meat, you can try using plant-based deli slices or tofu.
When it comes to fruits and vegetables, the sky’s the limit. You can add anything you want to your charcuterie board. But some of the best camping food ideas include adding grapes, berries, carrots, cucumbers, and celery.
To make your charcuterie board more visually appealing, arrange the food in rows or a circular pattern. You can add some herbs or edible flowers to make it more aesthetically pleasing. After that, enjoy your romantic night with your partner while munching on this healthy and delicious treat.
Steamed Fish and Vegetables
If you’re looking for a healthy and easy-to-make camping meal, steamed fish and vegetables should be on your list. This dish is perfect for health-conscious campers who want to get their nutrient fix while enjoying the great outdoors.
Steaming is one of the best ways to cook your food since it preserves its nutrients. It also keeps your food moist and flavorful. Place your fish and vegetables inside a steamer basket or a colander that fits inside your pot, add some water, and bring it to a boil.
Once the water is boiling, put a lid on the pot and let it steam for about 10 minutes. After that, check if your food is cooked through. If it is, remove it from the heat and enjoy your healthy and delicious meal.
It’s a simple yet nutritious dish perfect for campers who want to enjoy a healthy meal. You can also add some seasonings or spices to give it more flavor.
Healthy camping meals don’t have to be boring or bland. There are plenty of delicious and easy-to-make dishes you can try. The recipes mentioned above are just some of the best camping food ideas you should try on your next trip. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your menu and enjoy a healthy and delicious camping experience.
