Making your healthy snacks is a combination of thoughtful ingredients and exact measurements. Snacks are an essential part of any day. They provide energy for the tasks of the day, such as work, sports, and play.
Most of them are unhealthy, and high in fat, and sugar. However, homemade snacks are more nutritious and healthy. Plus, there are endless options to make them healthier by preparing them yourself.
Looking for some healthy snack ideas? Then read on to find the top homemade healthy snacks you can try at home. Let’s dive in!
1. Dried Fruit and Nut Mix
The mix of dried fruits and nuts provides a combination of healthy proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, making it a great snack to enjoy throughout the day. It offers plenty of vitamins and antioxidants, as well as a great source of dietary fiber.
Besides providing essential nutrients, this mix is also a great way to curb cravings since it is low in sugar and high in protein. For those looking to make a healthy and delicious snack, this dried fruit and nut mix is something to consider.
Best of all, it can be prepared in just a few minutes and has a long shelf life if stored correctly.
2. Turkish Simit
An excellent healthy snack to try making at home is the Simit. It’s an ancient Middle Eastern delicacy also known as the Turkish bagel that has been popular in the Mediterranean for centuries.
This crunchy circular bread is traditionally baked with sesame seeds and is filled with whole wheat flour and low-fat milk. Making this snack at home is an easy process.
You just need to mix the ingredients in a bowl, roll the dough into a spiral shape, and coat it with sesame seeds. This can then be baked in the oven and will be a delicious snack that is high in fiber and protein while being low in fat and saturated fat.
3. Trail Mix and Hummus
Trail mix is an easy snack to throw together. All you need are nuts, dried fruit, and seeds. The mix of healthy fats, complex carbs, and protein makes it a great snack to fill up on.
In addition, hummus is a great dip to add to trail mix, as it is a good source of plant protein and dietary fiber. It can also be used as a vegetarian sandwich filler or a luscious dip. It is very easy to make at home, requiring only a few simple ingredients.
Both trail mix and hummus make for an exciting and nutritious snack. Plus, their recipes are easy to customize, allowing you to add in ingredients that you prefer.
4. Chia Pudding
Chia pudding is a delicious and nutritious snack that is made from chia seeds, almond milk, and the sweetener of choice. The ingredients are combined and left to chill in the refrigerator overnight.
The next day, the chia pudding will be set and it is ready to serve. Furthermore, the seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids and essential minerals, while the almond milk provides calcium and vitamin D.
It is also very adaptable, it can be topped with fresh fruit, nuts, and a drizzle of honey to make it even more delicious and nutritious. Chia pudding is a mouthwatering snack that is perfect for any time of the day!
5. Baked Veggies and Fruit Crisps
Baking vegetables and fruit crisps can make a healthy snack to eat in place of chips, cookies, and other unhealthy snacks. Vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and squash can be cut into chips and crisps to lightly bake with oil and spices.
Additionally, fruits such as apples, oranges, and pears can be used to make healthy crisps as well. For a savory snack, ingredients like cumin, rosemary, and olive oil can be used. For a sweeter option, ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, and honey can be used.
Both of these offer a nutritious goodie that can be enjoyed alone or served with dips. Plus, they are also great additions to salads and can be used as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
6. Oatmeal Cookies
When talking about healthy snacks, oatmeal cookies are a great option for home bakers to try. They are packed with fiber and can easily be adapted to suit any dietary preferences or restrictions.
Moreover, they can easily be made using rolled oats, natural sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup, and a range of healthy ingredients. To boost their nutritional value, you may add nuts, dried fruits, dark chocolate chips, and seeds.
If you’re up for a savory version, add up some spices and freshly-grated cheese. These cookies are easy to make and can be ready in less than an hour. So grab the oats and let’s get baking!
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Focusing on whole grains, proteins, and vegetables can help make the most nutritious snacks at home. Some good options can include:
- Greek yogurt with fresh fruit and nuts
- Roasted chickpeas
- A veggie wrap with hummus
- Quinoa pizza bites
- Apples with peanut butter
- Hard-boiled eggs
Additionally, healthy alternatives to chips and popcorn, such as kale chips, roasted pumpkin seeds, and air-popped popcorn, can be just as satisfying. All of these snack ideas can easily be made at home and even enjoyed on the go or as a midday snack.
Benefits of Making Your Healthy Snacks
Making healthy snacks at home comes with a lot of benefits. First, you can save money as buying from the store can be expensive. Secondly, you can control the ingredients and proportions.
This allows you to customize your dietary requirements and preferences. Third, you can snack on fresher ingredients. You’ll be able to support local farmers or enjoy the benefits of growing your food right beside you.
Last but not least, it’s an enjoyable creative process. You get to experiment with different flavors, interesting combinations, and recipes that you can bring to parties or give to friends. Try some of these to have an even healthier lifestyle!
Snacking can be beneficial in the right way and with the right ingredients. Try making one of the top healthy snacks we’ve listed to add a boost of nutrition to your day.
So what are you waiting for? Start to enjoy good health and great taste with these delicious homemade snacks today!