Written by Whether you’re a kid or an adult, snacks are an excellent pick-me-up no matter the time of the day. They’re perfect while you’re studying, completing tasks, enjoying a movie or video game, or relaxing with loved ones.
Snacks are also an essential part of our daily routine. They not only help keep our hunger at bay but also maintain our energy levels and our bodies fueled so we can be active and productive throughout the day.
However, people often choose to eat unhealthy snacks because they are convenient and easily accessible. Chips, candies, cookies, donuts, pizza, hamburgers, sodas, and other sugary or salty treats are some examples of unhealthy favored snacks people often buy and eat.
But while they may be convenient and tasty, consistently eating unhealthy snacks can negatively affect your health and well-being in the long run.
I understand it’s sometimes hard to find healthy options, especially for kids. But the good news is there are plenty of healthy and delicious snack options out there!
So the question is: have you ever thought about trying some healthier options instead of processed snack foods?
If yes, then you’re in the right place!
So for snack lovers like me, here are 10 healthy yet easy-to-make and delicious snack ideas to keep you energized and feeling great!
1. Fruit and cheese kabobs
If you’re a fan of skewers, here’s a healthier version for you. You just need to skewer up nutritious fruits and cheese using a BBQ stick!
You can use fruits, such as:
- Apples
- Banana
- Blueberries
- Grapes
- Kiwi
- Mango slices
- Melon
- Peach
- Pineapple
- Plums
- Strawberries
- Raspberries
- Watermelon
- other fruits you like
Then finish them with a block of cheese if you want!
2. Yogurt Parfaits
Yogurt parfaits make a perfectly delicious breakfast, snack, or dessert, as they are a good source of protein and calcium.
Yogurt parfaits sound fancy, right? But it’s actually simple to do! It’s just layers of yogurt and frozen or fresh fruits.
To create your yogurt parfait, you must first defrost your chosen fruits (strawberries, blackberries, etc.).
You can do this by placing the frozen fruits in a microwave-safe container and put them in microwave.
Then, set the microwave in the defrost setting, with a timer for no more than 30 seconds so the fruit doesn’t overcook.
Another simple method is just submerging the frozen fruits in cold water to thaw them.
However, you can also use fresh fruit instead when making your yogurt parfait. It’s up to you!
Here’s what you need to do:
- Add a scoop of Greek vanilla yogurt to a glass.
- Then add layers of fresh or defrosted fruit and nuts of your choice.
- Remember to repeat this process until your glass is filled to the top.
- Finally, top your parfait with crunchy granola or chocolate chips.
3. Popcorn
Popcorn is another healthy snack because it’s a nutritious whole grain. It’s loaded with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins.
You can make popcorn in a microwave or stove. After that, drizzle it with some butter, and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese.
Here is a simple quick way to make great tasting microwave popcorn. Ask your parents for help before making it to avoid any accidents!
- Get a large microwave safe tempered glass bowl. Ask your parents for help to get the right type of bowl. It must be microwave safe to avoid breaking it.
- Add 1/2 cup of popcorn kernels to the bowl.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of oil for better flavor. You can leave it out for a lower calorie version.
- Mix the popcorn and oil with a spoon to coat it evenly. You can also add a pinch of salt for flavor.
- Put a ceramic dinner plate on top of the bowl so it is covered.
- Microwave for 3-5 minutes and stop when you hear the pops slow down to once every few seconds. Be careful not to burn it!
- When it is done cooking, the bowl will be very hot. Use cooking gloves to carefully remove it from the oven and slowly remove the top plate. Hot steam will come out that can burn you, so get help from your parents.
- Let the bowl cool down enough to safely touch it.
- You can add flavors, like salt and melted butter, or make it more interesting with garlic powder and parmesan cheese. A sweet version can be made with a little cinnamon and sugar. Just use your imagination and mix it up.
4. Trail Mix
Trail mix is a simple yet healthy snack to try. You can customize it by adding what you and your family love and keeping out what you don’t.
You can use peanuts, cashews, almonds, walnut, raisins, dried fruits, chocolate chips, and whole-grain cereal.
To make this, just combine all your chosen food in a jar or a snack bag.
But remember, refrain from eating this if you’re allergic to nuts!
5. Hard-boiled eggs
Hard-boiled eggs are another nutritious snack for kids, providing high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals.
After boiling the eggs, just cut them in half and sprinkle them with a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Cheese and Crackers
This pairing is another simple yet healthy snack you can try at home! Cheese provides protein and calcium, and crackers are a good source of fiber.
It’s best to use whole-grain crackers and low-fat cheese for a healthier version. But if you don’t have these, you can opt for the crackers and cheese you have at home.
Just lay your preferred crackers on a plate, add some cheese on top, and drizzle some honey (if you want). Then, serve and eat!
7. Celery with peanut butter and raisins
This is a classic fun snack called “ants on a log.” It’s a nutritious food that provides a good balance of carbs, protein, and fat. It’s also a fun way to encourage kids to prepare and eat food.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Cut a celery stalk into three or four pieces.
- Wash the stalk very well because dirt often hides in its crevices.
- Then, spread peanut butter inside the celery.
- Finally, arrange a few raisins on top.
But remember, refrain from eating this if you’re allergic to peanut butter!
8. Fruit smoothies
Fruit smoothies are another go-to healthy snack alternative if you love to drink sodas and iced teas.
You can try countless combinations and put your favorite fruits and even vegetables into the mix.
You can blend fresh strawberries, blueberries, frozen bananas, and watermelon. You can also try other fruits and add vegetables of your choice.
Don’t forget to add vanilla Greek yogurt and a splash of milk and blend until smooth.
9. Homemade Sweet Potato Fries
If you love french fries, then Sweet potato fries are the perfect alternative snack for you!
Sweet potatoes are a great source of antioxidants like beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamins. Beta-carotene is the antioxidant responsible for the vegetable’s bright orange color. It can be converted into vitamin A, contributing to healthy skin and eyes.
To make this, you have to:
- Peel and slice up a fresh sweet potato.
- Then, sprinkle the slices with salt.
- Next, toss the sliced sweet potatoes in olive oil on a sheet pan in the oven.
- Bake on a sheet pan at 425° F for 20 minutes.
You can also just sprinkle the sweet potatoes with salt and put them in the air fryer.
10. Oatmeal
Lastly, oatmeal is a healthy snack for kids, as it is high in soluble fiber that helps promotes healthy gut bacteria and reduces blood sugar levels and cholesterol.
Just skip the single-serve flavored oatmeal packs you can buy in stores because they are high in sugar. Instead, make your own oatmeal with whole, rolled oats.
You can add fresh fruits, dried fruits, nuts, chia seeds, and more for the toppings! Honey for sweetness is also a great addition.
For the liquid, you can use milk or water. It’s up to you!
It’s worth taking the time to seek out and choose healthier snack options whenever possible. So try these easy-to-make yet healthy snacks with your family at home now!
Happy snacking!
