Go-To Healthy Snacks

DSCF5029Snack time in my house looks a lot like a stampede of two, racing down to the kitchen, throwing open the cupboard and saying “There’s nothing to eat!!!” (when in fact, there most certainly is).

Here are some of my go-to favourites that appeal to several different age groups- and are easily to assemble (which is nice if you have kids that are almost cooking, but not quite).

Nuts

I’m fortunate that neither of my kids have food allergies, but many of their classmates do- so this is strictly a stay-at-home snack (and I always have them wash their hands and brush teeth afterwards, just in case).

A handful of almonds or cashews are a protein-packed snack that is higher in calories and in nutritional value.

Veggies and Dip

Chop up loads of carrots, celery and peppers and store in Ziploc bags, ready to go when you need it. Salad dressings that are creamy and a little thicker (i.e. ranch style) make for good dips.

Tzatziki and Pita

Kids love to tear off pieces of pita bread and to load them up with savoury tzatziki. Yogurt-based, this dip is high in protein and low in fat. Yummy

Hummus and Pita

Since you have the pita bread out anyways, hummus is a good option as well- again high in protein and low in fat.

Homemade Popsicles

You can throw juice in a popsicle mould and have a refreshing treat, but for an extra nutritional punch, fill up your popsicle tray with Greek Yogurt and fruit (berries freeze well). Also refreshing, but with protein and extra vitamins and minerals!

Bagel Cream Cheese & Fruit

Sure, you’ve smeared a bagel with cream cheese, but why not add an extra layer and up the nutrition and the flavour.

Top regular cream cheese with sliced strawberries or peaches. The sweetness of the fruit is a nice complement to the rich flavour of the cream cheese.