Snacking is a very important aspect of your day. Sometimes you just need something to munch and crunch on to keep you going. Often, we end up reaching for quick, processed options that leave us feeling less than great. But what if you could indulge in tasty treats without the guilt? Below, we've compiled a list of 30 fun and healthy snack ideas that are perfect for any time of the day. So put down that bag of chips that has a million calories and unknown quantities of processed oils, and try one of these instead!
1. Apple Slices with Almond Butter
Ditch the processed sweets and reach for some apple slices with almond butter. This combination not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides a good balance of fibre and protein. Opt for almond butter instead of peanut butter, because most peanut butter brands are highly processed and full of sugar. We suggest Granny Smith or Red Delicious for this crunchy snack.
2. Greek Yogurt and Honey
A bowl of Greek yogurt topped with a drizzle of honey is not only creamy and delicious but also packed with protein and probiotics, making it an excellent snack for gut health. It's perfect on its own, or you can spice it up by adding some berries and a dash of cinnamon. Maybe some granola if you're really hungry.
3. Homemade Trail Mix
Mix together nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips for a homemade trail mix. It's a perfect on-the-go snack that's both satisfying and nutritious. Top your yogurt with it, or you can even bake into granola bars. Whatever tickles your fancy.
4. Veggie Sticks with Hummus
Crunchy veggie sticks like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers served with hummus make a great, low-calorie snack that's full of fiber AND delicious. Sometimes you really just need something crunchy dipped in hummus to get you through the day. You can even try a fancy hummus, like the spicy kind. If you're feeling REALLY creative, you can even try your hand at making your own hummus.
5. Baked Kale Chips
Bake some kale chips for a crunchy, low-carb alternative to potato chips. Season them with your favorite spices for an extra flavor kick. Plus, you're getting your daily dose of greens in.
6. Banana and Peanut Butter
Slice a banana and spread a thin layer of all-natural peanut butter on each slice. It's an excellent way to get some vitamins and protein in. You can even do the same combination on toast, for a more substantial snack.
7. Whole-Grain Toast with Avocado
A slice of whole-grain toast topped with smashed avocado is not just trendy but also a powerhouse of healthy fats and fiber. You can even add things to it, like microgreens, tomato, or an egg for extra protein.
8. Cottage Cheese and Pineapple
Combine cottage cheese with pineapple chunks for a snack that's both refreshing and filling, thanks to the high protein content in cottage cheese.
9. Oatmeal and Berries
A small bowl of oatmeal topped with fresh berries is a warm and comforting snack, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings healthily.
10. Air-Popped Popcorn
Air-popped popcorn is a low-calorie, whole-grain snack that's perfect for when you need something a little salty and a lot crunchy. Get creative and add some extras to it, like M&Ms or nuts. Or top it with some homemade caramel. Whatever your heart desires.
11. Edamame Beans
Steamed edamame beans, sprinkled with a pinch of sea salt, are not only delicious but also a great source of protein and fiber.
12. Frozen Grapes
Freeze a bunch of grapes for a sweet, ice-cold treat. They're like natural candy, but much healthier! If you're feeling boozy, you can soak them in champagne, freeze them, and then roll them in some cane sugar for a crowd-pleasing snack.
13. Rice Cake with Nut Butter
Rice cakes make for a great snack because they're gluten-free and light. Top a rice cake with your favorite nut butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a quick, satisfying snack. Sprinkle some nuts or berries on top for some added fibre or crunch.
14. Chia Seed Pudding
Mix chia seeds with almond milk and let it sit overnight. Add a touch of maple syrup for a delicious pudding that's packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
15. Hard-Boiled Eggs
Hard-boiled eggs are a protein-packed snack that's easy to prepare in advance. Sprinkle a bit of salt and pepper for flavor. If you have it on hand, add some Everything But The Bagel seasoning for some extra flavour.
16. Roasted Chickpeas
Roast chickpeas in the oven with some olive oil and your favourite spices for a crunchy, protein-rich snack. You can add paprika, cayenne, and/or garlic powder for some extra flavour. Roasted chickpeas also make an excellent salad topper, if you have any extra left over.
17. Smoothie Bowl
Blend up a smoothie bowl using your favorite fruits, a scoop of protein powder, and a splash of almond milk. Top with nuts and seeds for extra crunch.
18. Sweet Potato Fries
Craving some french fries? Bake some sweet potato fries for a fiber-rich alternative to regular fries. Season with a bit of olive oil and paprika. Add some sriarcha sauce to a bit of mayo for the perfect dipping sauce for your fries.
19. Guacamole and Whole-Grain Crackers
Pair homemade guacamole with whole-grain crackers for a snack that's a good mix of healthy fats and fiber.
20. Overnight Oats
Prepare overnight oats with almond milk, a touch of honey, and your favourite fruits. It's a great grab-and-go snack for busy mornings.
21. Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups
Roll up some turkey slices with cheese for a low-carb, high-protein snack that's super satisfying. Add some lettuce and tomato for some extra crunch.
22. Fruit Salad with a Twist
Make a fruit salad and add a sprinkle of chia seeds or a dollop of Greek yogurt for an added health boost.
23. Cucumber Sandwiches
Layer cucumber slices with hummus or low-fat cream cheese for a light and refreshing snack.
24. Protein Bars
Opt for homemade or natural protein bars as a quick snack, perfect for post-workout or a mid-afternoon energy boost.
25. Caprese Salad Skewers
Thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto skewers. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar for a fancy, healthy snack.
26. Mini Quiches
Bake mini quiches with your favorite veggies for a tasty, protein-rich snack that's great on the go.
27. Almond-Stuffed Dates
Stuff dates with almonds for a sweet and nutty snack that's naturally rich in nutrients.
28. Peanut Butter Celery Sticks
Spread peanut butter on celery sticks and top with raisins for a crunchy, satisfying snack.
29. Fruit and Nut Yogurt
Mix some yogurt with a handful of nuts and fresh fruit for a creamy and crunchy snack.
30. Tuna Salad on Cucumber Slices
Top cucumber slices with tuna salad for a refreshing and protein-packed snack.
These snack ideas are not only delicious but also nutritious, making them perfect for satisfying your cravings without the guilt. Happy snacking!