Whether I'm at a backyard barbeque celebrating the 4th of July or just lounging by the pool, summertime weather almost requires indulging in frozen treats. Of course, I must reserve my desire for a cherry screwball in a plastic cone for special occasions and, unfortunately, the sound of an ice cream truck does not a "special occasion" make.

Never one to deprive myself of all things sweet in this world, I've pulled together a few of my favorite summer-time picks that are healthier than a screwdriver, or anything that comes from an ice cream truck for that matter.

Summer on a spoon

If you crave ice cream, why not try Weight Watchers frozen deserts instead? They're sweet and creamy, just the way you like it, but with half the calories and fat of your average indulgent spoonful. Save $1.00 on Weight Watchers Smart Ones with this coupon.

Summer in a smoothie

For some reason, you call something a "smoothie" and everyone assumes it's healthy. Sure, a smoothie made with real fruit can be part of a healthy diet, but places like Jamba Juice are guilty of sullying their smoothie menu with a few bad blends. For example, I used to order the Aloha Pineapple before I realized that is contained 450 calories and a shocking 99 grams of sugar! My new favorite is the Berry Fulfilling, which contains half the calories and sugar of the Aloha Pineapple. My advice is to always make sure to read the nutrition facts first! And, of course, to always take advantage special offers like this one for a 16 oz. smoothie for just $2!

Summer on a stick

It wouldn't be summer without blue, purple and red stained tongues, which is why Yosicles are such a great addition to the Popsicle family! Part Popsicle and part yogurt, Yosicles give kids the calcium they need while they enjoy a cool treat. Save $0.55 when you use this coupon. Oh! and don't worry, they still come with a joke once you get down to the stick :)

"What did the melted cheese say to the unlucky tortilla? Man, it's nacho day!"

While we're on the topic of veggies, I thought I'd take this opportunity to share with you my favorite recipe for preparing them. Actually, it's less of a recipe and more of a strategy. Summer is a hectic time of year. The kids are out of school, and we're constantly running around between sports practice, camp and play dates all day long. There's no way I would be able to have a wholesome meal on the table every night without a few tricks up my sleeve.

One of my favorite tricks is called tin-foil veggies. They're fast, easy and require very little clean up. Best of all, I can make them on the grill alongside burgers, salmon or steak. Here's how it's done:

Tin-foil Veggies

1. Tear off a piece of aluminum foil and brush with olive oil.
2. Arrange the vegetables on the aluminum foil.
3. Brush the vegetables with more olive oil and sprinkle salt and pepper or whatever other herbs and spices you like.
4. Place another piece of aluminum foil over the top and roll the edges together to create a pocket.
5. Slice a slit in the top of the pocket and transfer to the grill.
6. Cook for 5-10 minutes.