Simple Snack Hacks

Getting Arya to eat healthy hasn’t been a challenge. We chose to offer fresh fruits instead of sugary sweets. And I know what you’re thinking…I’m not one of those health crazed moms! Fed is best honey! Micky D’s or tangerines….makes me no difference! A full belly is always the goal but when I can help it I offer the healthy stuff. The problem is healthier food options tend to be more expensive and never seem to be easy to make. Here are a few snacks that are always a hit. You may or may not notice a chocolate theme…because why not?

Chocolate Covered Bananas

Cut a few bananas in about ¼ inch slices and freeze for about two hours. Melt dark chocolate and coconut oil in the microwave then dip the bananas in the mixture and place onto a sheet pan covered in parchment paper. Place them back into the freezer for a couple of hours and keep them there until you're ready to eat! *Side Note: If you’re feeling fancy - put peanut butter between two banana slices and then freeze and dip in chocolate!*

Apple Slice Cookies

Slice a few apples into thin, manageable rounds. Top with peanut butter, chocolate chips, nuts, oats and enjoy!

No Bake Protein Balls

These are not only delicious but can be made in large quantities and stored for future use! Mix all of the ingredients together, refrigerate for 30 minutes and then roll into 1 inch balls. These can then be stored in the fridge or freezer depending on when you will eat them. Also, feel free to mix in other goodies like shredded coconut or chia seeds and to multiply this recipe to make greater quantities.

❏ 1 cup of Rolled Oats

❏ ½ cup of Peanut Butter (You can substitute almond butter here)

❏ ½ cup of Mini Chocolate Chips

❏ ½ cup of Ground Flaxseed

❏ ⅓ cup of Honey

Roasted Sweet Potato Fries

These make a great snack or a side dish! First you are going to want to peel and slice a sweet potato into long slices. Then toss in an oil of your choice (I usually opt for olive or avocado depending on how healthy I’m feeling), sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder and if you like it spicy - Tony’s Chachere or paprika. If you have an air fryer toss them in there on 380 for about 10 minutes and BAM! Be sure to check half way through and toss them around. If not, lay them out on a baking sheet and put in the oven on 350 for 20 minutes - also rotating half way through.

*Side Note: Sweet potatoes can be substituted for carrots and are just as delicious!

❏ 2 Sweet Potatoes

❏ 1 Tbsp of Oil

❏ ½ tsp of garlic powder

❏ ½ tsp of paprika or Tony’s Chachere

❏ ½ tsp of salt

❏ ½ tsp of pepper

Frozen Yogurt Pops

These are a fabulous summer time snack and only 4 ingredients! First, you will want to blend all of the ingredients into a puree. Then pour them into paper cups and cover with aluminum foil. Use a popsicle stick to pierce the foil in the center of the cup. Freeze for about 4-5 hours or until solid.

❏ 1 cup of yogurt

❏ 1 banana

❏ 1 cup of frozen mixed berries

❏ ⅛ cup of honey