In the last few years, I have really taken a liking to cooking. I find that when I cook my own meals, I tend to make better choices because I see what goes into my food at every step of the way.
But finding time to make healthy snacks is not always an easy task. When you’re constantly on the go, it’s tempting just to grab the most convenient option — and that’s usually processed foods. It was when I started snacking healthier that I noticed a change in how I felt over all. I had more energy, felt less bloated, and the effort I was putting into my workouts was starting to show.
I’ve compiled a list of some of my go-to healthy snack recipes here. They’re easy to make, and once you start, you’ll find yourself taking the time to do it more.
What’s great about these recipes is that they call for a lot of the same ingredients. So while some ingredients are on the more expensive side, they are quite versatile, you know you will be getting your money’s worth.
Flaxseed Energy Bites
Now you may be wondering — what the heck is flaxseed? It’s a small oil seed loaded with tons of health benefits. It’s rich in dietary fiber and omega-3 fats, been known to reduce cholesterol, contains high-quality protein, and can even curb hunger to help you lose weight.
I actually found this recipe on the back on the Trader Joe’s flaxseed bag, and have made my own variations to it. It’s a great snack pre or post workout. I sometimes eat a few for breakfast with some fruit since they’re so filling.
Ingredients:
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup flaxseed meal
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1/3 cup maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla
Instructions:
Add all ingredients to a large mixing bowl and stir. The peanut butter will be difficult to disperse evenly, so you may want to use your hands.
Use your hands to roll the batter into 1 inch balls — like you’re making cookies.
Place on a cookie sheet, and put in the freezer for about one hour.
Enjoy right away, or save in the refrigerator for later!
Chia Seed Pudding
Similar to flaxseed, chia is another seed packed with nutrients. Chia seeds are also a great source of energy. In fact, “chia” is the ancient Mayan word for “strength.” This makes a great breakfast, or a healthy dessert alternative.
I’ve seen this recipe done in a variety of ways, but here’s my take on it.
Ingredients:
1 cup milk of your choice
1/4 cup chia seeds
1 tbsp honey or vanilla
toppings of your choice (fruit, chocolate chips, granola, flaxseed etc.)
Instructions:
Add chia seeds to a bowl or mug.
Add milk, honey or vanilla, and whisk for about 1 minute.
Wait 30 seconds, and whisk again to keep seeds from sinking to the bottom.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and let settle in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Decorate the pudding with your favorite toppings, and enjoy!
Tip: Not sure what to top with? I usually go for strawberries, chocolate chips, granola, and a drizzle of honey. Also, I’ve tried this recipe with a few different types of milk, and I recommend vanilla almond milk for extra flavor.
Healthy Ice Cream
Ice cream that’s actually good for you?! Yes, please! This protein packed “dessert” is light, refreshing, and so yummy you’ll forget it’s not real ice cream. Plus, this recipe can be made vegan if you leave out the chocolate chips!
Ingredients:
2 small bananas
2 tbsp peanut butter
1/2 cup milk of your choice
chocolate chips
toppings of your choice (shredded coconut, walnuts, honey, etc.)
Instructions:
Slice bananas into coins, and place onto a cutting board.
Let it sit in the freezer for about 30 minutes.
Add frozen bananas, peanut butter and milk to your blender, and blend until smooth.
Empty contents into a freezer-safe container, or a cake pan lined with parchment paper (as shown in photo). Sprinkle in chocolate chips.
Let freeze for 2.5 hours for a creamy, ready-to scoop consistency.
Scoop, add your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Tip: Sometimes if I know I will be sharing this with friends, I will put the blended ingredients in small ramekins before freezing.
With love,
Sabrina