- Healthy snacks don’t have to be boring or tasteless. With creative twists on nutritious foods and planning to have these snacks on hand when you’re hungry, you’ll be reaching for nutrient-rich foods in no time. Here are a few fun ways to feed your cravings without reaching for foods high in sugar and calories.
1. Peanut Butter, Banana, and Honey Sandwich
The classic pb&j can be a tad high in added sugar, thanks to jams and jellies. Instead, try this: whole wheat bread, a sliced banana, a drizzle of honey, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. This sandwich has all the flavor with less sugar and more vital nutrients.
2. Avocado Tuna Salad
Tuna is a great low-fat, high-protein snack. Still, when we make traditional tuna salad, mayonnaise or miracle whip adds a great deal of calories without adding any nutritional value. Instead of mayo, reach for a ripe avocado and smash it before mixing it into your tuna. You’ll get the creamy texture without mayo. Try adding a boiled egg for extra protein!
3. Make-Your-Own Trail Mix
Make a trail mix that’s all your own! Try adding whole-grain cereal, dried fruits, unsalted nuts, and bits of granola. Get creative with your mix and put it into easy grab-and-go containers that you can pick up when you’re heading out the door.
4. Hard-Boiled Eggs
For a snack packed with protein, try boiled eggs! They are a great snack on their own or as an addition to tuna salad, toast, or sandwiches.
5. Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Craving fries? Instead of stopping through a drive-through, try slicing a sweet potato at home and baking your fries yourself. If you have an air fryer, that is a great option as well. Drizzle a bit of olive oil on your fries and sprinkle your favorite seasonings on them for the perfect afternoon snack.
6. Hummus and Veggies
The chickpeas used to make hummus are packed with nutrients, making hummus a great snack to satisfy your cravings. Try pairing it with your favorite sliced veggies or lightly salted pita chips.
7. Greek Yogurt Parfait
For a high-protein treat, try making a Greek yogurt parfait with any combination of granola, nuts, and fruit. Mix and match yogurt flavors and toppings until you find your perfect snack.
8. Cottage Cheese and Fruit
Cottage cheese is a versatile snack that can be paired with fruit, toast, nuts, honey, and many other additions. Try different combinations to find your favorite!
9. Edamame
Edamame is rich in fiber and flavor, making it a great snack or appetizer. Add a little sea salt or other spices and flavorings to make it your own.
10. Popcorn
Your favorite movie snack can be light and healthy—with a twist, that is. Instead of reaching for rich, buttery popcorn, try plain popcorn and add your own seasoning. Here are a few ideas: cinnamon and sugar, taco seasoning and lime zest, or a drizzle of olive oil with sea salt. The sky’s the limit!
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For more healthy recipes, download the National Cancer Institutes Down Home Healthy Cooking guide.