1. Some of us crave salty and crunchy while others crave sweets, or both! Snacking is enjoyable and great a way to satisfy cravings, even if it’s mindless – so why not change it up for something a little healthier? Allow yourself to savour what you’re really craving, even if it’s not great for you, but add some items (think fruits and veggies!) to provide balance. I’m a fan of colorful charcuterie-style snacking that includes salty, crunchy, and sweet foods. Not only does it look amazing, it’s effortless and awesome to share – even the kids like it! Consider using less of the standard meat and cheese, and substitute some of the following:
- Sliced avocado with sea salt & pepper
- Olives or olive tapenade
- Orange segments, apple slices, or berries
- Dark chocolate or a small handful of sweets (cut up in small pieces)
- Nuts – raw or dry roasted
- Energy balls
- Sliced vegetables and hummus
- GF crackers (Mary’s organic crackers or brown rice crackers)
- Small bowl of popcorn or potato chips (try Terra brand)
2. If you have a little more time on your hands, or don’t feel like going through the trouble of making a full family-style meal, try tapas! For those of you who don’t know, tapas-style is multiple small plates of enticing foods meant to share. Remember to include a variety of flavor profiles and textures and additional fat for extra satiety. Here are a few dishes to try:
- Edamame with salt
- Kale chips (https://www.chatelaine.com/food/kitchen-tips/the-secret-to-perfect-kale-chips/)
- Olives and cheese
- Guacamole with corn chips and cut veggies
- Mary’s organic crackers with cilantro pesto (https://www.farmfreshtoyou.com/recipes/153/cilantro-parsley-pesto)
- Savoury nuts (https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/rosemary-walnuts-recipe-1910657)
- Smoked salmon
- GF meatballs in marinara sauce
3. Everyone seems to be on a quarantine baking kick. To help reduce the amount of refined carbs, try paleo recipes! They provide more protein and fat which is more satiating to the body and are usually lower in sugar than regular recipes. I also love paleo baking because it takes the guilt out of wanting more. Try any of the recipes below – they are all quick and easy!
- Paleo Edible Chocolate Cookie Dough https://40aprons.com/healthy-cookie-dough-paleo-vegan/
- Paleo Banana Bread (I add chocolate chips!) https://comfybelly.com/2013/10/banana-bread-using-coconut-flour-2/
- Haystacks https://www.thepaleomom.com/recipe-chocolate-haystacks/
- Paleo Cinnamon Coffee Cake https://elanaspantry.com/cinnamon-coffee-cake/
- Paleo Energy Balls https://beamingbaker.com/3-ingredient-no-bake-almond-butter-paleo-energy-balls-gluten-free-vegan/
- Energy Balls (These are not paleo, but they are really good, and kids love them! Any nut butters are interchangeable and can be substituted with sunbutter). https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/no-bake-energy-bites/
Happy Snacking!
Jessica Fallis, Holistic Nutritional Consultant