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Summer is here, and I want to savor every minute! So I’m sharing my favorite things to make summer a bit more memorable, enjoyable, and healthy, without a lot of fuss.

“Live in the sunshine. Swim in the sea. Drink in the wild air.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

Images of Rachel's favorite things.

Rachel’s 9 Favorite Things For Summer

Summer means the kids are out of school, things move a little bit slower, and there is time to relax and take it all in. To help you make your summer even more special, I rounded up a few of my favorite things for you to try.

1. Electrolytes

If you know me, you know I’m OBSESSED with Just Ingredients Electrolytes. The ingredients are the highest quality and the flavors are insanely DELICIOUS! If I’m out working in the yard, going for a walk, or laying by a pool this summer, there’s definitely a big ole’ mug of electrolytes with lots of ice nearby.

They are such a treat! If you’re trying to cut back on soda or other artificially flavored drinks, give ’em’ a try!

Try replacing your afternoon coffee or energy drink with a tall glass of electrolytes. You’ll feel awake and the energy is solid and sustained instead of caffeine’s usual crash and burn.

You can find all the different flavors of Just Ingredients Electrolytes here: https://cleanfoodcrush.com/just

Is Just Ingredients Electrolyte mix safe for daily consumption?

Yes. Just Ingredients electrolytes contain the ideal 3:1 potassium to sodium ratio – to keep you hydrated without going overboard on the sodium, making them great to drink multiple times a day!

Just Ingredients do not use artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners. Their electrolytes are made with real fruit and thoughtfully chosen ingredients to support hydration. 


2. Ice Cream Maker

Favorite things for summer: ninja creami ice cream maker surrounded by ice cream desserts.

I’ve bought so many ice cream makers in my life and NEVER been impressed. Some didn’t even work! Wasted food right into the garbage.

Well, this one works fantastic! This little Ninja CREAMi is AMAZING! 

I prefer to ideally have a little fat (not tons) and only natural sugar in my desserts. 

Fruit sorbets are EASY to prepare and come out great.

I’ll never buy another box of ice cream again. I can flavor mine to my desired sweetness (not too sweet for me please!) with raw honey or pure maple syrup.

What sets the CREAMi apart from traditional ice cream makers is the revolutionary processing method. Instead of churning ingredients as they freeze, you freeze your base completely solid in the provided containers, then the machine uses its powerful blade system to shave and blend the frozen mixture into incredibly smooth, creamy perfection. This process creates a texture that’s noticeably superior to conventional churned ice cream, with none of the ice crystals or graininess that plague homemade frozen desserts.

The ability to customize flavors and control ingredients is perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions or specific preferences. I can create sugar-free versions using alternative sweeteners, make dairy-free options with coconut or almond milk bases, increase protein content for post-workout treats, or experiment with unique flavor combinations that you simply can’t find in stores. Having complete control over every ingredient means I know exactly what I’m consuming.

It’s a bit expensive but I sure like it better than the Cuisinart. I like this container method rather than the freezer churn by 1000%.

Really easy to clean, just be sure to rinse it off well immediately after using.

If you’re trying to stay away from all those additives they put in food these days, this is one step closer, and it’s really fun! I love knowing exactly what’s in my ice cream.

Btw, I also have a vitamix and you can’t do the same things in the vitamix that the CREAMi will do. The vitamix is fantastic and can also make frozen desserts, but not the smooth, whipped pineapple that the CREAMi will make.

I love this machine. Highly recommended. Take the time to experiment, learn, and have fun!

Here is the link to purchase the Ninja Creami I’m using: https://cleanfoodcrush.com/vky1


3. Non Toxic Sunblock that actually works!

Rachel's hand holding up her favorite Sun and Sol sunscreen.

Why are we putting so many chemicals on our skin?

There’s been a lot of debate over sunscreen the past few years. To use it? Don’t use it? And this hot topic is only heating up. As with most things, I’d rather not debate at all, but I do want to choose the absolute safest, most natural ingredients for those days when my family is going to be in the sun all day. Nobody wants to burn!

Formulated with natural, non-toxic, skin-compatible ingredients free of harsh chemicals, this formula is designed to be gentle on sensitive skin. Dermatologist-tested for use on children. 

While we don’t recommend eating your sunscreen, we believe what goes on your skin should be just as safe as what you put in your body.

At Sky and Sol, they follow one bold rule: If it’s not safe enough to trust around your body, it has no business on your skin. That’s why they use food-derived, nutrient-rich ingredients—like grass-fed tallow—that your body already loves.

You can purchase this safe suncreen for your next trip here: https://cleanfoodcrush.com/4q33

Make sure to use my DISCOUNT CODE for a percentage off: RACHELM


4. Popsicle Molds

Favorite things for summer: popsicle molds.

Have you ever looked at the back of a box of store-bought popsicles? They are usually loaded with high fructose corn syrup, artificial food dyes (like Red 40 or Blue 1), and “natural flavors” that are anything but natural. When you use your own molds, you are 100% in control of what goes in.  

Why Every Family Needs These Popsicle Molds! 🍦☀️

If you’re looking for the ultimate way to stay cool while sticking to your clean eating goals, these Popsicle Molds are AWESOME! Here is why they are a must-have for your summer kitchen:

1. You Control the Ingredients 🍓

Store-bought popsicles are often loaded with high fructose corn syrup, artificial dyes, and “natural flavors” that are anything but natural. With these molds, you can blend up fresh fruit, Greek yogurt, or even green smoothies to create treats that are actually good for you! 

2. The “Easy-Release” Magic ✨

Forget running your molds under hot water and hoping for the best! These modern silicone molds are flexible and soft, meaning your popsicles slide right out without breaking or melting. It’s a total stress-saver for busy parents. 

3. No-Drip, No-Mess Design 🧼

I LOVE the “no-mess” design of these molds. They come with built-in drip guards that keep the sticky juice inside the mold and off your kids’ clothes and hands. It’s the cleanest way to enjoy a frozen treat! 

4. Reusable & Eco-Friendly 🌍

Stop buying boxes of single-use plastic-wrapped popsicles. These molds are durable, BPA-free, and designed to last for years. You’re saving money and reducing waste every time you use them! 

5. Perfect for “Sneaky” Nutrition 🥦

Have a picky eater? You can easily hide a little blended spinach, blended frozen cauliflower, blended avocado, ground chia seeds, or protein powder in a fruit-based popsicle, and they’ll likely never know if you get the quantity just right! It’s a great way to get extra nutrients into your family on a hot day. 

6. Endless Creative Combinations:

  • Creamy Berry: Blend Greek yogurt with a touch of raw honey and fresh strawberries.
  • Tropical Green: Blend Pineapple, mango, and a handful of spinach.
  • Chocolate Banana: Blend ripe bananas with raw cacao powder and almond milk.
  • Watermelon Zest: Pureed watermelon with a squeeze of fresh lime.

Rachel’s Tip: For the prettiest popsicles, drop a few whole berries, a slice of banana, or a slice of kiwi into the mold before pouring in your liquid. They look fancy and taste even better!

Purchase my favorite popsicle molds using this link: https://cleanfoodcrush.com/jn3k


5. Gorgeous Salad Serving Bowl

Favorite things for summer: beautiful salad bowl for serving with wood accents.

“The most important thing I’ve learned in life, and I can’t stress this enough: You gotta make a salad in a bigger bowl than you think”

Elaine: Can I have a big salad?

Waitress: A big salad?

George: Just tell them what you want. They’ll make it for you.

Elaine: It’s a salad, only bigger, with lots of stuff in it.

Waitress: I can bring you two small salads.

Elaine: Could you put it in a big bowl?

Waitress: We don’t have big bowls.

It’s a salad, only bigger, with lots of stuff in it!

This large salad serving bowl is elegant and beautifully made, with a wood base that adds a nice touch. I appreciate that it’s the perfect size for dinner parties that can hold a lot of salad. The bowl is easy to clean and makes a great gift! Grab one to make your summer parties memorable!

This is my pick for a beautiful, large salad bowl: https://cleanfoodcrush.com/k6hx


6. Sea Salt Flakes

flaked sea salt is one of rachel's favorite things.

I’ve enjoyed sprinkling these sea salt flakes on EVERYTHING lately! I REALLY LOVE the flavor of these salt flakes.

Because the seawater used is relatively pure and low in certain minerals, Maldon salt has a mild, almost sweet flavor without bitterness or acidity. This makes it ideal for enhancing rather than overpowering dishes, allowing the natural flavors of ingredients to shine 

High-quality sea salt flakes have a very “clean” and fresh flavor without the bitter aftertaste that some ultraprocessed salts have. They are packed with natural minerals from the sea, which adds a subtle depth to your dishes. 

Maldon Salt Company has been making salt since 1882. 

Rachel’s Tip: This is a finishing salt, not a cooking salt. Keep a little “salt cellar” on your table and sprinkle it on right before you eat to enjoy that amazing flavor & crunch! 

There are so many sea salts out there, but my favorite is Maldon which you can purchase here: https://cleanfoodcrush.com/9iej


7. Dragon Fruit Powder

Dragon fruit powder isolated on white background.

If you want to make THE MOST VIBRANT and incredible smoothies, bowls, popsicles, chia pudding, oatmeal, drinks, etc. Grab some Dragon Fruit Powder to make this summer memorable!

Why Dragon Fruit Powder is Your New Kitchen BFF! 🌸✨

If you haven’t tried Dragon Fruit Powder (also known as Pink Pitaya) yet, you are in for a treat! 

It’s one of my favorite ways to add a “wow” factor to healthy recipes without any artificial dyes.

rachel's favorite pink smoothie made with dragon fruit powder.
Dragon fruit smoothie in a glass with ice

Here’s why it’s so much fun to use:

1. Nature’s Most Vibrant “Neon” Pink 🎨

Dragon fruit powder gives you the most stunning, vibrant pink color you’ve ever seen, naturally! It’s perfect for turning “boring” foods into “fairy food” that kids (and adults!) absolutely adore.

2. A Nutritional Powerhouse 💪

It’s not just a pretty face! Dragon fruit is packed with Vitamin C, magnesium, and iron. It’s also loaded with fiber, which helps support a healthy gut and keeps things moving smoothly. 

3. The “Anti-Aging” Glow 🌟

It’s rich in antioxidants like betacyanin and flavonoids, which help fight inflammation and protect your cells. Some people even use it in homemade face masks for a natural glow! 

4. It’s a “No-Waste” Wonder ♻️

Unlike fresh dragon fruit, which can be tricky to find and goes bad quickly, the freeze-dried powder stays fresh in your pantry for months. You get all the nutrients and color whenever you need it!

5. Creative Ways to “Crush” It:

  • Pink Smoothie Bowls: Blend with frozen bananas for a thick, neon-pink base.
  • Magical Pancakes: Stir a teaspoon into your batter for bright pink breakfast treats.
  • Dragon Fruit Chia Pudding: Layer it for a beautiful, Instagram-worthy breakfast.
  • Pretty-in-Pink: Stir it into Greek yogurt or Cottage cheese for a fun, protein packed snack.
  • Vibrant Lattes: Add it to your frothy milk for a “Pink Drink” that’s actually healthy!

Rachel’s Tip: A little goes a long way! Start with just half a teaspoon to see that amazing color pop, and remember to store it in a cool, dry place to keep that pink nice and bright!

This is my pick for Dragon Fruit Powder: https://cleanfoodcrush.com/lp5g


8. Edible Flowers

rachels favorite edible flowers.

These edible flowers are absolutely GORGEOUS and very high quality!

Whimsical, beautiful, summer memories are now loading! Edible flowers are the easiest way to elevate EVERYTHING!

Now I just want edible flowers on everything I eat! Salads, Grilled fish, Drinks, Frozen in ice cubes, Cakes like this Chocolate Zucchini Cake.

Flowers aren’t just pretty; they are packed with antioxidants, polyphenols, and vitamins. For example, roses are incredibly high in Vitamin C, and many blooms help fight inflammation in the body. 

Some flowers, like roses and lavender, contain compounds that are known to help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Adding them to your tea or salad is like a little spa day for your senses! 

Edible flowers offer a surprising range of flavors:

  • Nasturtiums: Have a peppery, radish-like kick.
  • Pansies: Offer a mild, grassy, or slightly minty flavor.
  • Lavender: Sweet and floral, perfect for healthy treats.
  • Borage: Tastes remarkably like fresh cucumber!

Nothing makes a salad or smoothie bowl pop like a sprinkle of fresh petals. It’s an instant way to make your healthy creations feel special and inviting. 

rachel's favorite edible flowers on hummus.

Creative Ways to “Crush” It:

  • Floral Ice Cubes: Freeze small blooms like pansies or violas into ice cubes for the prettiest water or iced tea you’ve ever seen.
  • Garden-Fresh Summer Rolls: Tuck whole flowers inside your rice paper wraps for a stunning, “see-through” floral effect.
  • Chilled Soup Garnish: Sprinkle petals over a cold gazpacho or cucumber soup for a fresh, elegant finish. 
  • The Ultimate Salad Topper: Toss a handful of colorful petals into your Salad for a burst of color and unique flavor.

You can purchase your own edible flowers using this link: https://cleanfoodcrush.com/hjle


9. Sprouts Growing Kit

Favorite things for summer: bean sprouting jars.

You NEED this! These bean sprouting jars are so fun for kids & adults alike!  

Why Everyone Needs a Sprouts Growing Kit! 🌱

If you’ve been looking for the ultimate way to level up your nutrition while saving money, this Sprouts Growing Kit is about to become your favorite kitchen tool. 

This is a total must-have for every CleanFoodCrush kitchen:

1. It’s a “Nutritional Powerhouse” in a Jar 💥

Did you know that during the sprouting process, vitamins and minerals in seeds can increase by 13% to 600%? These tiny greens are concentrated with Vitamin C, B vitamins, and antioxidants—often at much higher levels than the full-grown vegetables! 

2. Save Money Every Single Week 💰

Store-bought sprouts are expensive and often come in plastic containers that go bad in days. Growing your own is exponentially cheaper. You can grow a massive jar of organic sprouts for just pennies using bulk seeds. 

3. “Farm-to-Table” in Just 5 Days 🚜

You don’t need a green thumb or a backyard! This kit makes it so easy to grow fresh, crunchy sprouts right on your kitchen counter in less than a week. It’s the ultimate “indoor garden” for busy people.

4. Fresher & Safer than the Store 🛡️

When you grow your own, you know exactly what’s in them. You harvest them right before you eat, locking in all those active enzymes and nutrients that start to fade the moment store-bought sprouts are packaged. 

5. Perfect for Clean Eating & Weight Loss 🥗

Sprouts are incredibly low in calories but high in fiber and protein, making them the perfect “volume food” to keep you full and satisfied. They add a delicious crunch to salads, sandwiches, and wraps!

6. The “Mess-Free” Design🧼

I LOVE the stainless steel mesh lids and sturdy stands in this kit. They allow for perfect drainage and airflow, which is the secret to growing crisp, fresh sprouts without any of the “sliminess” or mold issues that come with DIY methods. 

Rachel’s Tip: Start with broccoli or alfalfa sprouts. They are super easy, delicious, and packed with sulforaphane, a powerful compound that supports your body’s natural detox process!

This is the Sprouts Growing Kit that I personally love: https://cleanfoodcrush.com/it96


Elevate Your Summer With My Favorite Things

Take some time this summer to really enjoy the things that make you happy. I hope you try some of these fun products to help you savor every moment!

More Of Rachel’s Favorite Things

Hi, I'm Rachel!

Welcome to CleanFoodCrush! Here you will find SIMPLE and FUN recipes. We’re all about REAL Food for REAL Life. Eating a little bit better, not “perfect”.

I’ve been creating recipes, inspiration, and supportive online communities through Cleanfoodcrush for over 12 years! I hope you feel supported and inspired to make some small changes that add up big time!

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