Junk food destroyed my health, but nothing tasted better—until I found the foods that put chips to shame
Junk food destroyed my health, but nothing tasted better—until I found the foods that put chips to shame
Don’t Even Think About Grabbing That Bag of Chips
We all love a good chocolate bar, and heaven knows we’ve wolfed down a bag of candy before, but the world is full of healthy foods that are not only better for you, but better tasting! While there's nothing wrong with the odd chocolate bar, it's time we talked about which options make better snacks than anything else in the junk aisle.
1. Strawberries
Nothing tops the king of the berries. These delicious treats are packed with vitamins and nutrients, which not only make them healthy but a guilt-free snack far better than any junk food. Dip them in a bit of yogurt and you’ll never go back.
2. Cheese
Depending on how much you consume, cheese is actually a perfectly healthy snack all things considered. You have protein, calcium, vitamins—and dozens of options to choose from. Whether you eat them alone or sprinkle a pinch in your salad, cheese brings a lot to the table.
3. Salsa
Pre-packaged salsa might be full of sodium, but homemade varieties only bring the flavor! Tomatoes, cilantro, onion, and fresh herbs fill this simple dip with all kinds of vitamins and minerals. Now if we could only make tortilla chips healthy.
4. Ripe Peaches
Is there anything better than sinking your teeth into a ripe peach? This low-cal fruit offers plenty of benefits—improved digestion, lower blood sugar, and even boosted immunity. Not bad for an unassuming, delicious treat.
5. Buffalo Cauliflower
We know some people refuse to eat cauliflower, but we beg you to give it another chance! Cauliflower is like any other vegetable: the flavor depends on preparation. Toss this veggie in some flour, garlic powder, and paprika (among other things), and coat with Buffalo sauce for a healthy snack.
6. Pistachios
Are you looking for a smaller waistline and tasty food? Look no further than pistachios. They’re chock-full of nutrients, support healthy blood sugar levels, and are also good for the heart. While you don’t want to chow down on too many, they still make a simple, mouthwatering snack.
7. Roasted Vegetables
You’ve probably told yourself that you don’t like vegetables. Bowls of bland greenery likely haunted every dinner table, so why go back now? You’re free! But vegetables deserve a second chance—and a little seasoning to get the job done right. Roasted broccoli tossed in salt and pepper? Asparagus sprinkled with garlic and parmesan cheese? Carrots brushed with maple syrup? You’ve been missing out!
8. Homemade Popcorn
Homemade popcorn is just as yummy as theater snacks. If anything, it’s way better because you save time and calories popping a bowl at home. Feel free to indulge in the flavored stuff too because a little caramel or cinnamon never hurt anyone.
9. Mangoes
We can’t make this list without talking about velvet-smooth mangoes. They’re juicy, they’re delicious, and they’re filled with health benefits like vitamins and improved immunity. Summer will be here before you know it, so don’t forget to indulge!
10. Dark Chocolate
It doesn’t get much better than dark chocolate. Sure, it’s more bitter than white or milk chocolate, but it’s also packed with more benefits. It lowers blood sugar, protects against heart disease, and pairs well with other foods. Dip your strawberries in a bit of melted chocolate or be bold and add it to your coffee.
11. Salads
When you think about it, salads are incredible. They’re a blank canvas for healthy foods, earning a gold star for versatility and taste! Grilled chicken and salmon make terrific protein options while fresh greens like kale or spinach make the perfect base. As for the toppings? Bell peppers, carrots, cucumbers, avocados, eggs, and cheese are all good places to start.
12. Freshly Picked Raspberries
You could always grab raspberries from the grocery store, but there’s nothing fresher than right off the bush. Try growing some in your backyard this year and see what we’re talking about. You’ll nab a delectable berry filled with potassium and omega-3 fatty acids.
13. Homemade Smoothies
When they’re done right, homemade smoothies are way better than anything in the snack aisle. A big plus is their versatility—you can add any fruit and veggie combo or kick it up a notch with protein powder. Just remember to keep high-sugar fruits to a minimum for maximum health benefits.
14. Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Did someone say smoked paprika and sweet potatoes? We sure did! A pinch of kosher salt ties it all together and you’re left with an incredible side dish that’s healthy and tasty. Sweet potatoes help everything from your heart to your eyes, so it might be time to sneak it into your diet.
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15. Watermelon
You wouldn’t think something that’s 92% water would taste so darn good—but it’s basically the perfect snack. It’s refreshing, keeps you hydrated, and can even aid digestion. You don’t need to add anything either since it packs enough flavor on its own.
16. Roasted Chickpeas
If you need a crunchy snack loaded with protein, chickpeas are the answer. They’re the easiest snack to make, only requiring a little olive oil, smoked paprika, and garlic powder to bring it all together. What you’re left with is a simple dish high in fiber and low in sodium.
dimitri.photography on Unsplash
17. Chocolate-Covered Bananas
Alright, we’re being a little naughty with this one but how could we ignore chocolate-dipped bananas? Whether you indulge in halves or a few frozen slices, this potassium-packed snack gives everyday snacks a run for their money.
Volodymyr Hryshchenko on Unsplash
18. Mejdool Dates
Dates have much more than a succulent flavor—they offer potassium, fiber, and antioxidants to boot. Perhaps the best part of them is how chewy they are, letting us get the most out of every bite. You won’t find that in a bag of chips!
19. Avocados
Avocados remain a polarizing option, but not for us. We’re not only fans of the modest flavor, we also appreciate how versatile it is. Toss it in a salad, mash it on bread, or add it to a delicious sandwich. Either way, you’re eating one of the healthiest superfoods around. It’s also responsible for everyone’s favorite dip: guacamole!
20. A Great Steak
Red meat is best consumed in moderation, but meat-eaters everywhere agree that nothing tops a good steak. It’s also not a bad option for most diets either! You’ll score a heavenly dish that offers protein, iron, and vitamins.
