The best part of a summer pool day—besides the pool, of course—is the food.
But it has to be the RIGHT kind of food.
Nothing too heavy or complicated. You need snacks that are easy to grab, super refreshing, and won’t leave you feeling sleepy in the sun.
That’s why I put together this list of some of my FAVORITE ideas for what to eat by the pool.
You’ll find everything from sweet, fruity treats to savory snacks you can eat with one hand.
So whether you’re planning a huge party or just a chill afternoon, here are some awesome ideas to get you started.
1. Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches
Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches are a classic frozen dessert everyone will love.
Perfect for cookouts or simply stashed in your freezer, these delightful treats make a sweet ending to any day.
2. Lemon Posset
Lemon Posset is a wonderfully simple English dessert that brings a bright, tangy finish to any meal.
You’ll love how this classic posset comes together with just a few basic ingredients for a delightful treat.
3. Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
Get ready to enjoy perfectly crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries that are quick and easy. This simple recipe transforms fresh zucchini into a delightful, savory snack. They make a fantastic, lighter side dish everyone will love.
4. Chocolate Pudding Pie
Chocolate Pudding Pie is the ultimate easy dessert.
This delightful no-bake pie combines rich chocolate pudding with a delicious graham cracker crust.
It’s a simple, crowd-pleasing treat perfect for any occasion.
5. Mini Oreo Cheesecakes
Mini Oreo Cheesecakes are an incredibly sweet and easy dessert perfect for any occasion.
Each delightful oreo cheesecake bite features a buttery, crispy Oreo crust and a rich, creamy cheesecake filling.
These treats are simple to make and promise a burst of flavor in every mini serving.
6. Chinese Tofu Salad with Sesame Vinaigrette
Enjoy the delightful Chinese Tofu Salad with Sesame Vinaigrette, a flavorful and satisfying meal.
This vegan Chinese salad features crisp cabbage, fresh carrots, and seasoned tofu for a truly satisfying bite.
It’s an inviting asian tofu salad that will quickly become a regular favorite in your kitchen.
7. Pimento Cheese Spread
This Pimento Cheese Spread is a wonderfully easy southern pimento cheese recipe.
Enjoy this creamy pimento cheese dip on crackers, or spread it into a classic grilled cheese sandwich.
8. Cold Salmon Salad with Mayo
Discover the perfect Cold Salmon Salad with Mayo, a truly refreshing dish. This delightful salmon salad brings together bright lemon, fresh dill, tangy Greek yogurt, and creamy mayo for amazing flavor. It’s an easy and satisfying meal.
9. Chicken Lettuce Wraps
These Chicken Lettuce Wraps bring together savory ground chicken and crisp veggies in a delicious sauce.
It’s a super easy PF Chang’s copycat recipe that tastes just like the restaurant version.
10. Beet And Blueberry Smoothie Shots
These delicious Beet And Blueberry Smoothie Shots offer a naturally sweet and refreshing taste.
This vibrant beet smoothie recipe is an incredibly cleansing way to jumpstart your day.
11. Peanut Butter Cheerio Balls
Peanut Butter Cheerio Balls are the ultimate easy no-bake snack for kids.
These delightful honey nut cheerio balls combine peanut butter and honey for a treat everyone will love.
12. Mixed Berry Quinoa Parfaits
Mixed Berry Quinoa Parfaits make a delightful and healthy treat.
Enjoy satisfying layers of cheesecake-flavored Greek yogurt and fresh berries in this vibrant quinoa parfait.
13. Vegan Sushi Salad with Spicy Mayo Dressing
Enjoy all the delicious flavors of your favorite rolls in this fantastic Vegan Sushi Salad with Spicy Mayo Dressing.
It’s the ideal way to satisfy your sushi cravings without any of the fuss of rolling.
14. Griddle Corn Cakes
Griddle Corn Cakes are deliciously fresh and fluffy.
Enjoy these versatile corn cakes for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Explore over 10 easy variations, like southwestern, cheesy, or bacon-lover, to perfectly suit your taste.
15. Blueberry Dump Cake Recipe (Fresh Blueberries)
Whip up the beloved Blueberry Dump Cake Recipe (Fresh Blueberries) for a dessert that always impresses. This easy recipe features vibrant fresh blueberries and a light lemon cake mix, creating a delicious real fruit filling. It’s a simple way to enjoy a fantastic treat without the need for pie filling.
16. Easy Canapés
Easy Canapés are simply delightful for any gathering. These delicious canapes, crafted with fresh, simple ingredients, are sure to impress and please your guests. They are also easily made as a fantastic vegetarian option.
17. Sweet and Salty Snack Mix
Sweet and Salty Snack Mix is your go-to for crunchy, chewy, chocolaty goodness.
It’s perfect for healthy snacks, easy lunchbox ideas, or a satisfying trail mix.
This kid-friendly recipe can also be made gluten-free to suit everyone.
18. Cowboy Caviar
Cowboy Caviar is a vibrant and fresh dip that’s ready in under 15 minutes. This simple Texas Caviar is perfect served with tortilla chips or as a colorful side salad.
19. Garlic Buffalo Potato Chicken Wings
Savor the ultimate crunch with these Garlic Buffalo Potato Chicken Wings.
Each baked chicken wing is perfectly coated for an extra crispy bite, then tossed in a flavorful garlic buffalo sauce.