Healthy Snack Ideas to Enjoy

A roundup of three healthy snack ideas for midday cravings.

The transition to an overall balanced diet from our regular processed-food dominating one is a struggle that most of us have faced. However, the real challenge when making this switch is resisting the urge to grab a chip, cookie or candy when we feel the need to snack. A ‘snack’ refers to the smaller food items that you consume in-between your meals to satiate your cravings. Even if you are not necessarily eating clean for your larger meals, it is fairly easy and convenient to snack on something processed and unhealthy as a quick bite. You may think that unhealthy snacking will not be as detrimental, but in the long run, these smaller portions add up and make a big difference. To help curb these cravings, identify your favorite snacks and switch them with a healthier alternative. A nutritious snack will provide the fuel to help you stay focused. Here are some healthy snack ideas that you can enjoy guilt-free!

Nut Crackers

Nuts are chock-full of nutrition credentials and may offer various health benefits ranging from the heart to hormones. Packed with protein, fiber and healthy fats, nuts are vitality-boosting and an easy ingredient to cook with. These gluten-free nut crackers are a healthier snack idea that are also convenient and can be had on-the-go. Skip the salt and top with sesame seeds for this healthy snack idea to be enjoyed as breakfast!

Ingredients:

• 1 ¼ cup of mixed nuts and seeds
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons water
• ¾ tsp sea salt
• Extra seeds for sprinkling

Directions:

• Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
• Finely grind the nuts in a blender. Add the egg, water and sea salt and stir with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a stiff dough.
• Divide the dough into two and place each piece directly on the parchment papers.
• Roll them out into two rectangles, about 2-3mm thick.
• Cut the dough into slices or squares, spray them with a little bit of water and top with the seeds of your choice.
• Bake for about 10 minutes, keeping an eye on the oven as the crackers burn easily.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Banana-Coconut Moringa Chia Pudding

Chia is one of the most versatile seeds that can be used in any form for numerous nutritious snack ideas. This particular recipe is a great breakfast option but can be doubled-up as a healthy snack as well, if you are looking for something on the sweeter side. The moringa may add your daily dose of nutrients to this recipe and help increase its health quotient.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond milk
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2 tablespoons rolled oats
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 banana
• 1 tablespoon shredded coconut
• 1 tablespoon raisins
• 1 or ½ tablespoon moringa powder (as per preference)
• Dash of cinnamon

Directions:

• Add the almond milk, chia seeds, rolled oats, lemon juice, maple syrup, and vanilla to a blender and blend until the chia seeds and rolled oats have been fully puréed.
• Add to a covered container and refrigerate overnight, or at least for 3 hours.
• When you are ready to serve the pudding, thinly slice 1/3 of a banana and set aside for garnish. Mash the other 2/3 of the banana into your serving bowl.
• Add a tablespoon of shredded coconut as well as the moringa powder to the bowl.
• Finally, pour the chia pudding over the top and mix the banana, coconut, and chia together.
• Lastly, garnish with toppings of choice.

Kale Chips

One of the easiest alternatives to regular processed chips, kale chips are delicious and come with all the benefits of a green leafy vegetable. This low calorie nutritious and healthy snack idea is light and perfect for munching on, at any time. Enjoy it by itself or with a healthy dip of choice.

Ingredients:

• One bunch kale
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt

Directions:

• Preheat an oven to 350°F. Line a non-insulated cookie sheet with parchment paper.
• With a knife or kitchen shears carefully remove the leaves from the thick stems and tear into bite size pieces. Wash and thoroughly dry the kale.
• Drizzle kale with olive oil and sprinkle with seasoning salt.
• Bake until the edges brown, for about 10 to 15 minutes.