Some of the most delicious snacks are just waiting to be brought to life in your kitchen. Even if you’re not a chef, its possible to combine simple ingredients using everyday tools. But, why should you give up your usual bag of chips or afternoon muffin? There are a multitude of reasons why. Consider this — over the long term, an unhealthy diet can be a risk factor for many chronic diseases such as heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and even cancer. People who consume overly processed foods regularly are more likely to suffer ill effects such as hypertension, high cholesterol and weight gain. According to Anne Wolf, RD, a researcher at the University of Virginia School of Medicine: “Healthy food is essential. People take it for granted, but we need nutrients.” There is a direct connection between what you eat and how you feel, not to mention how you look. Its important to choose foods that will not only give you energy, but provide your body with the things it needs.
5 Recipes for Healthy Snacks That Can Change Your Life
These delicious and nutritious recipes will improve your overall nutrition, save you time and money, and give you the boost you need to get you through your day.
Chocolate Espresso Protein Smoothie
This delicious smoothie is chock full of healthy ingredients including banana and coconut milk (and it has chocolate!). Instead of your usual run to Starbucks for an afternoon pick-me-up, try this amazing mocha flavored smoothie instead. Pour into your favorite glass, top with a straw, and voila — a yummy and healthy treat!
Apple Sandwiches With Almond Butter and Granola
Talk about simple and delicious! This recipe only includes three ingredients, and requires no cooking. Apples provide a good amount of fiber while almond butter introduces protein and healthy fat. Granola is packed with whole grains to keep you full until your next meal. To keep apples from turning brown, consider brushing with fresh Meyer lemon juice. It’s not overly sweet yet will keep your apples looking and tasting fantastic!
Bacon Guacamole Sammies
Try this amazing guacamole recipe which uses minced shallot, lime juice and aleppo peppers to sandwich between your cooked bacon slices for a delicious filling snack that’s full of protein and can be made ahead of time for easy assembly. Even the pickiest eaters will love these bacon sandwiches that offer a good amount of healthy fat from the avocados. To turn into a meal, simply add lettuce or tomato, and two slices of whole grain bread.
Basil Pesto Almonds
Almonds are a super food and its no secret. This nut is full of copper, magnesium, vitamin E and high quality protein. Add a burst of flavor with an herb coating and this is one snack that creates a party in your mouth! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices that you have at home. Consider using curry or cardamom for an extra zing!
Cucumber Feta Rolls
These cucumber feta rolls are easy and cheesy! Cucumbers are naturally low in calories and feta cheese adds a powerful punch of protein. Mixed with sundried tomatoes and kalamata olives, these rolls are easy to assemble and incredibly flavorful. Top with a tiny mint leaf for a beautiful presentation — who says your snacks can’t look gourmet?
Other healthy snack ideas include trail mix, nuts and seeds, dried fruit, cut up raw veggies, berries and greek yogurt, low-fat cottage cheese, mozzarella cheese sticks, pretzels, air popped popcorn (just go very easy on the butter and salt or omit altogether), edamame, graham crackers with cashew butter, diced watermelon with crushed pistachios and so much more. Don’t be afraid to try new blends of healthy ingredients because you never know what will be your next favorite flavor combination. What other healthy snacks do you love? Leave a comment and share your healthy snack ideas!
