Simple, Snappy (& Healthy) Snack Ideas
If you’re in a bit of a healthy snack rut, this post is for you.
CA team member/registered dietician Jill KitkoBernard has been coming up with healthy, delicious and EASY options for her own daughter. She wanted to share one of her favorites for quick homemade nachos and guacamole… because who needs the premade stuff when you and your kids can make it fresh!
Bonnie Pace is another CA rockstar who loves whipping up fun finger foods, particularly her peanut butter-chocolate chip protein balls. That combo, though… mmmm…
First, let’s cover something really important.
Why do these recipes work?
The brain is the fattiest organ in our bodies, and while carbohydrates are one of the main sources of energy, the brain needs healthy fats too. Both of these recipes have some sort of healthy fat incorporated to keep your students’ noggin going strong.
Okay, now for the recipes. Each should take less than 10 minutes to prepare and might even be simple enough for your kids to follow on their own.
Jill’s Quick and Easy Nachos With Guac
- 1 avocado
- ½ of a lime
- ¼ cup red onion, diced
- 2 tbsp fresh chopped cilantro
- ½ tsp garlic, minced
- Corn chips of your choice
- 1-2 tbsp shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ roma tomato, diced
- Peel, pit and mash the avocado.
- Squeeze juice out of ½ of a lime.
- Add onion, cilantro and garlic. Mix and set aside.
- Layer a small, shallow bowl with chips. Add cheese and tomato.
- Microwave chips, cheese and tomato for 20 to 30 seconds
- Enjoy!
Bonnie’s Power Protein Balls
Makes 15-20 protein balls
- Rolled Oats ( 1 ½ – 2 cups)
- Peanut Butter – no sugar or oil added- ( 1 ½ cups) *sunflower butter also works for non peanut households
- Protein Powder – 1 scoop
- Chia Seeds ( ½ T)
- Ground Flax Seeds ( ½ T)
- Dark Chocolate Chips ( 2/3 cup)
- Honey – drizzle as needed for moisture
- Combine the dry ingredients in a bowl and mix.
- Add peanut butter and chocolate chips and combine all ingredients together.
- Drizzle the honey to add moisture and hold the balls together.
- Roll into balls and refrigerate to solidify.
- Enjoy!
Bon appétit!
CA insider info: If you’re looking to combine this healthy fuel with some movement, check out Coach Andy’s quick kids’ boot camp.
For more tips, check out the CA Parents’ Corner blog.
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