We all know how kids (and teens especially) love eating tasty snacks. Nevertheless, these hungry individuals do not usually deem the words tasty and healthy as near synonyms. In their minds, perhaps, a “healthy” diet consists of chowing down on leafy greens all day while drinking disgustingly-colored beverages. With a little food education and taste testing, we can demonstrate how healthy snacks can have a bursting flavor, a crunchy texture, and even a sweet aroma. Here is a list of some healthy snack foods that you and your family will be sure to enjoy:
Apples and peanut butter
This common fruit has plenty of nutritious benefits that will excite your taste buds as they mix with the creamy texture and nutty flavor of the peanut butter.
- Vegetables and ranch dressing
Any crunchy vegetable, such as peppers, cucumbers, or grape tomatoes, can become even tastier with the accompaniment of creamy ranch dressing.
- Popcorn
This easy snack is good eaten plain, but it becomes great when topped with a swirl of melted butter and a couple shakes of salt.
- Hummus and carrots
When paired with hummus (a creamy paste made primarily from chick peas and tahini) carrots can fill the desire for a dip-and-crunch type of treat.
- Yogurt
With the exception of sugar-filled, dessert-type yogurts, this dairy product can be a great snack when paired with fresh or frozen berries.
- Chips and salsa (or guacamole)
Corn chips create a wonderful and crunchy bite, especially when paired with spicy salsa or cold guacamole.
- Frozen fruit pops
Skip the packaged kind and make your own by freezing fruits such as bananas sliced in half or big chunks of mango on wooden sticks.
- Nuts
Although nuts are high in calories, they can have many health benefits when eaten in small amounts, such as a small handful or two.
- Oranges and clementines
Being naturally sweet, these fruits can energize with natural sugars while providing nutritious vitamins as well.
The next time your children ask for a snack, you might be surprised when they smile at the thought of eating fruits and vegetables!
