As we all know, snacking can be a tricky business – especially when you’re trying to eat healthy. With so many options out there, it’s hard to know what to reach for when that 3 pm craving hits. But fear not! We’ve got you covered with our collection of delicious and nutritious snack recipes that are perfect for busy days.
From crunchy baked sweet potato chips to creamy hummus dippers, we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering treats that are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your dietary goals on track. Whether you’re a health enthusiast or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Avocado and Chickpea Stuffed Cucumber Bites
These bite-sized appetizers are a perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and refreshing flavors. Perfect for hot summer days or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large cucumbers
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Slice the cucumbers into 1-inch pieces.
2. In a bowl, mix together mashed avocado, chickpeas, lemon juice, and salt until well combined.
3. Stuff each cucumber piece with about 1 tablespoon of the avocado-chickpea mixture.
4. If using feta cheese, crumble it on top of the filling.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! These bites are ready in just a few minutes.
Baked Sweet Potato Chips with Sea Salt
Transform sweet potatoes into crispy, flavorful chips with a touch of sea salt. This recipe is perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 teaspoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– Optional: Additional seasonings such as paprika, garlic powder, or chili powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and dry the sweet potatoes.
3. Slice the sweet potatoes into thin rounds, about 1/16 inch thick.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer, leaving some space between each chip.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the chips and sprinkle with sea salt.
6. Bake for 2-3 hours, or until the chips are crispy and golden brown, flipping them halfway through.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Greek Yogurt with Honey and Walnuts
This classic combination of creamy Greek yogurt, drizzled with golden honey and topped with crunchy walnuts is a match made in heaven. It’s the perfect quick snack to curb your hunger and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and honey. Stir until the honey is fully incorporated.
2. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the top of the yogurt mixture.
3. Add a pinch of salt if desired to balance out the sweetness.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Kale and Quinoa Energy Balls
These bite-sized energy balls are packed with the nutritional benefits of kale, quinoa, and rolled oats. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
• 1/4 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup nut butter (peanut butter or almond butter)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, combine kale leaves and process until finely chopped.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped kale, rolled oats, nut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
4. Place energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! Simply prepare and store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Enjoy your nutritious and delicious kale and quinoa energy balls!
Roasted Chickpeas with Smoked Paprika
Elevate your snack game with this addictive and aromatic recipe! Roasted chickpeas infused with smoky paprika make for the perfect crunchy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Optional: garlic powder, chili powder, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse chickpeas and remove any loose skins.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, and salt until well combined.
4. Add the chickpeas to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
5. Spread the chickpeas in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Apple Slices with Almond Butter and Chia Seeds
This recipe is a tasty and nutritious snack that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the creaminess of almond butter and the nutty flavor of chia seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 apples, sliced
– 2 tbsp almond butter
– 1 tsp chia seeds
– Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the almond butter and chia seeds until well combined.
2. Spread one side of each apple slice with the almond butter mixture.
3. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This snack is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Apple Slices with Almond Butter and Chia Seeds!
Zucchini and Carrot Veggie Muffins
Moist and flavorful, these muffins are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go. This recipe combines the goodness of zucchini and carrots with wholesome ingredients to create a nutritious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup grated zucchini
– 1/2 cup grated carrot
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, zucchini, carrot, and yogurt. Stir until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Dark Chocolate Covered Banana Bites
A sweet and indulgent treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as Crisco or coconut oil)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the dark chocolate chips and shortening, stirring occasionally.
3. Dip each banana piece into the melted chocolate, coating completely.
4. Place the chocolate-covered bananas onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
6. Just before serving, dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Hummus and Bell Pepper Dippers
This classic Middle Eastern dip gets a fresh twist with the addition of crunchy bell pepper dippers, perfect for snacking or as an appetizer. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying this tasty treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into strips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil and continue blending until creamy.
4. Arrange bell pepper strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast bell peppers in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Serve hummus with warm bell pepper dippers.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chia Seed Pudding with Fresh Berries
A nutritious and delicious breakfast or snack option that’s packed with omega-3 rich chia seeds, creamy texture, and sweet-tart berry flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries) for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds, almond milk, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well combined.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the chia seeds to gel.
3. Just before serving, give the pudding a good stir to redistribute the chia seeds.
4. Spoon the pudding into individual cups or bowls.
5. Top with fresh berries and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 2 hours or overnight refrigeration
Air-Fried Beetroot Chips
Transform ordinary beetroot into crispy, flavorful chips with this simple air-frying recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroot, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the sliced beetroot, salt, black pepper, and sugar.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the beetroot mixture and toss to coat evenly.
4. Load the beetroot mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between each chip.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the chips are crispy and golden brown.
6. Repeat with any remaining beetroot slices.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spiced Roasted Almonds
Elevate your snack game with this simple recipe that combines the crunch of roasted almonds with a blend of warming spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup raw almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Add the almonds to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the spice mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the almond mixture in a single layer.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until fragrant and lightly browned, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Edamame with Himalayan Salt
This classic Japanese appetizer gets a flavorful boost from the addition of Himalayan salt. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a light snack or as an accompaniment to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound edamame
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 teaspoon Himalayan salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the edamame under cold running water, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. Place the edamame in a medium-sized saucepan and add the water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the pods are tender.
4. Remove the pan from the heat and immediately sprinkle the Himalayan salt over the edamame.
5. Let it sit for 1 minute to allow the salt to penetrate the pods.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Oatmeal and Peanut Butter Protein Bars
Get ready to fuel your active lifestyle with these delicious and nutritious oatmeal and peanut butter protein bars! Made with wholesome ingredients and minimal added sugar, these bars are perfect for a post-workout snack or a quick breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (approx. 25 grams)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon chopped dark chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, peanut butter, honey, applesauce, and Greek yogurt. Mix until smooth.
3. Add the protein powder and salt, stirring until well combined.
4. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Celery Sticks with Cream Cheese and Raisins
A simple yet satisfying snack that combines the freshness of celery with the richness of cream cheese and sweetness of raisins.
Ingredients:
– 1 large bunch of celery, cut into sticks
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh raisins
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and honey until smooth.
2. Spread about 1-2 teaspoons of the cream cheese mixture onto each celery stick.
3. Top with chopped raisins.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake snack!
Pumpkin Seeds and Cranberry Trail Mix
This sweet and salty trail mix is perfect for snacking on-the-go or as a healthy addition to your backpacking trip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, and rolled oats.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Pour the melted chocolate over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.
4. Fold in the chopped almonds.
5. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in no time.
Whole Grain Toast with Avocado and Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe is a perfect combination of creamy avocado, sweet cherry tomatoes, and crunchy whole grain toast – a delicious and healthy snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole grain bread (toasted)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: feta cheese, basil leaves for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Toast the whole grain bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread one slice with the mashed avocado.
3. Top the avocado with the halved cherry tomatoes.
4. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, crumble feta cheese or add fresh basil leaves for extra flavor.
6. Assemble the second slice of toast in the same manner.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (toasting time + prep)
Baked Apple Chips with Cinnamon
Baked Apple Chips with Cinnamon: A Delicious Snack Option!
Are you looking for a healthier snack option that’s still sweet and satisfying? Look no further than these baked apple chips with cinnamon! This recipe is perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a healthy alternative to traditional potato chips.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 apples, sliced into thin rounds
– 2 tbsp cinnamon
– 1 tsp sugar (optional)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, toss together the apple slices, cinnamon, and sugar (if using) until the apples are evenly coated.
3. Place the apple slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your sheets.
4. Bake for 2-3 hours, or until the apples are dry and crispy. Repeat with any remaining apple slices.
5. Once the chips are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Carrot and Ginger Energy Bites
These bite-sized treats are packed with nutrients from carrots and ginger, making them the perfect snack to boost your energy levels.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, carrot, and ginger. Mix well.
3. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the honey until smooth. Remove from heat.
4. Add almond butter to the warmed honey and mix until combined.
5. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well incorporated.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch of space between each bite.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the richness of spinach and feta. Perfect for a quick and easy gathering or as a show-stopping side dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Brush mushroom caps with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the spinach-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Stay fueled and focused with these 20 healthy snack recipes perfect for busy days. From sweet treats like dark chocolate-covered banana bites to savory options like hummus and bell pepper dippers, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in baked sweet potato chips, roasted chickpeas, or spiced almonds for a crunchy pick-me-up. Whip up energy-boosting balls with kale and quinoa or carrot and ginger. Plus, discover creative ways to enjoy avocados, apples, zucchinis, and more. These easy-to-make snacks will keep you satisfied and energized all day long.
