Snacking happens. Instead of looking at it as filling your stomach and helping you make it from one meal to the next, look at snacking as another opportunity to take in some good nutrients.
In thinking about writing this post, I not only considered things that I snack on, I looked for inspiration from others. Some were simple (carrot sticks), many were boring (plain popcorn, trail mix...), some didn't seem all that healthy (beef jerky?), and some seemed beyond what most of us would really find satisfying (Seasnax - packs of roasted seaweed). I'll concentrate on a few that I think are satisfying: they taste great and leave you satiated.
Today, I'll start with my personal favourite: Guacamole and tortilla chips (don't worry, I don't mean Doritos!)
Avocados have the highest protein content of any fruit and will leave you feeling more full than a handful of carrots (no disrespect!). They are also high in monounsaturated fat, which is associated with a lower risk of heart disease. Keep the guacamole simple and you'll have it ready in 4 minutes.
1 ripe avocado
juice of 1 lime
tablespoon+ of fresh coriander/cilantro, roughly chopped
pinch of sea salt
1/2 tablespoon olive oil
In a bowl, smash the avocado with the back of your fork. Squeeze the lime juice over and toss in the coriander/cilantro. Add a pinch of sea salt and a dash of olive oil. Mix with the fork. Done! If you prefer a smoother guac - just put it in a food processor or blend with immersion blender. Make sure you scrape it all up! If you like it spicy, add a 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or chop up a bit of a chili.
Serve with:
HOMEMADE TORTILLA CHIPS: (These take 12 minutes, start to finish. Do these first, while they're in the oven, make your guac, and you're ready to go in 12.)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Juice of 1/2 lime
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Layer tortillas on top of each other and, using a pizza cutter or knife, slice into chip sized triangles or other shapes.
Lay flat on baking tray and bake for 8-10 minutes, until crisp but not burned.
Tomorrow: more healthy snacks!