When snack time hits, it’s tempting to grab a bag of potato chips or another unhealthy option. These are “go-to” munchies because they’re fast and easy and require pretty much zero thought. But, if healthier eating is your goal, then it’s time to change your snacks. Make healthy snacks your new default with the following ideas:
Flavored Popcorn
Pop your own popcorn in the microwave, and then add your own flavors such as garlic salt or chili powder. The crunch and the spice will satisfy your savory snack cravings.
Trail Mix
A handful of trail mix as a snack is a much healthier choice than an equivalent handful of chips. You’ll get variety and a bit of protein, both of which will meet your snacking needs.
Mozzarella Sticks
Healthy mozzarella sticks are a great mindful snack choice. The warm, melty, creamy cheese has every quality a great snack needs.
Apples and Peanut Butter
The sweetness of an apple paired with the saltiness of peanut butter is a match made in heaven. It tastes delicious and will keep you going all afternoon.
Rice Cakes Spread with Almond Butter and Banana
Brown rice cakes topped with creamy almond butter and sliced fresh banana have minimal calories and maximum flavor.
Avocado Toast
Avocado toast makes a perfect healthy snack, especially if you use dark, rich, whole grain seeded bread. Maybe even add a cherry tomato for a dash of color and sweetness. Yum.
Yogurt and Mix-ins
Pair a serving of plain or vanilla protein-rich Greek yogurt with your favorite mix-ins. Try the following combinations:
- Honey and dried figs
- Lemon curd
- Strawberry jam
- Fresh berries
- Crunchy granola
Or try your own “recipe”. Lots of things pair well with yogurt, so be creative.
Fake Snickers
To make fake Snickers, you’ll need dates, peanut butter, and dark chocolate chips. Slice the dates in half, remove the seed, and fill with a teaspoon or so of peanut butter. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave and drizzle over the filled dates. You can also sprinkle on a few flakes of sea salt if that sounds good to you. Freeze for 30 minutes. You’ll be amazed at how delicious these bite-sized treats are.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate, the darker, the better, is a good snack choice, especially for chocolate lovers.
New Habits
Once you stock your fridge and pantry with these healthy snack options, you’ll find yourself reaching for the good stuff every time. Whether you need after-school snacks for the kids or something to munch on during movie night, make mindful eating easy with these simple snack ideas.