Healthy Snacking Ideas to Help Ring in a Healthy New Year

Everyone has felt that in between meal hunger attack that sends us grazing for the right "snack" to satisfy us until meal time. Amidst the hunger pains and indecision we can make a not so healthy choice. If you are looking to make a few smarter, healthier snack choices, start by pairing fruit or veggies with a form of protein. The combination of the protein along with foods that are high in fiber and other nutrients will keep you full and satisfied for longer. They also won't break the "calorie bank." Check out a few suggestions below from Real Simple's online magazine. They are a great way to start off your healthy year of snacking.  http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/recipe-collections-favorites/quick-easy/healthy-snack-ideas

Bagel with Ricotta and Strawberries

Spread ½ toasted whole-grain "flat" bagel with 2 tablespoons fresh ricotta. Top with ⅓ cup sliced strawberries. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon honey or agave nectar. 148 calories | 4 g fiber | 7 g protein | 5 g fat

 

Cherry Tomatoes with Goat Cheese

Dividing evenly, top 5 halved large cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons fresh goat cheese. Sprinkle with 2 teaspoons chopped herbs (such as chives, basil, or parsley). 98 calories | 1 g fiber | 6 g protein | 7 g fat

Here are a few more tasty ideas that don't break the calorie bank, yet give a great balance of protein, fiber and fruit or vegetables.

Wasa Crackers, peanut butter,                                    Fresh Celery, peanut butter

                         Strawberries, and a drizzle of honey.                                    And raisins

 

Cucumber chunks, hollowed out a little, add tuna mixed with chopped onion, chopped hard cooked egg and mayonnaise.

For more ideas on healthy snacking, check out the following boards on our Pinterest account.

https://www.pinterest.com/5aspace/mangia/

https://www.pinterest.com/5aspace/health-wellness/