You can make delicious heart-healthy snacks in your own home, saving you both time and money while you do your best to stay healthy. Once you start making your own snacks, you will quickly learn how to mix and match to please each member of your family. Here are six great heart-healthy snack ideas to get you started!
Yogurt Pops
When you are craving something sweet, yogurt pops are the way to go! Blend Greek yogurt with your favorite fresh fruits or berries. Then freeze in a popsicle mold or use an ice cube tray with toothpicks. Freeze for 2 hours and enjoy for a more heart-healthy dessert.
Trail Mix
Make your own trail mix with a combination of dried fruits, nuts, seeds, yogurt covered raisins, and granola. You will save money over buying it already mixed, especially if you buy your nuts and seeds in bulk from places like http://www.sincerelynuts.com/. Setting up a trail mix bar is a great way to get everyone involved in making this snack. The whole family will enjoy mixing their own special blend.
Veggie Boats
Cut long strips of celery, carrots, and cucumbers. Then spread your favorite hummus and add some sliced olives, raisins, or dried cranberries. With this variety, everyone will find something they love.
Avocado & Grilled Chicken Wrap
Sometimes you may need a snack that is more substantial. For a heart-healthy version of the popular snack wrap, choose a whole wheat tortilla as your wrap. Layer thin slices of avocado, grilled chicken, and tomato. Top off with lettuce and roll up to enjoy.
Vegetable Juice
Sometimes you only have time for a quick drink. You can make this juice ahead of time and have it handy. Start with 2 large tomatoes per serving as your base. Then add what you like. Celery, onion, carrots, and peppers all blend nicely with tomatoes.
Quinoa & Black Bean Salsa
This twist on salsa is yummy and filling and will satisfy your need for a spicy snack. Begin with one cup of cooked quinoa. Add 1 can of black beans, rinsed. Dice and add 1 tomato, 1 onion, and 1 small jalapeno. Top it off with some fresh cilantro. Serve with whole grain crackers or baked tortilla chips.
Making heart-healthy snacks at home can be fun for the whole family. Use the above ideas as a springboard to see what new ideas you can include in your snack menu. Incorporate everyone’s favorites and spend time making the snacks together to encourage healthy eating habits.
