7 Healthy Plant-Based Snacks to Help Keep You On Track
December has to be the toughest month of the year when it comes to eating healthy – right after Thanksgiving, dappled with holiday parties, and followed by Christmas and New Years’. However, with some forethought, planning and determination you can stay healthy this December.
The best approach is to make sure that you have healthy snacks on hand so you don’t succumb to party platters when you’re starving. We’ve picked out our favorite plant-based snacks that can be made in advance and are easy to take on the go.
1. Endurance Crackers
Rather than reaching for the Ritz, try this recipe that combines a host of healthy ingredients – chia and pepita seeds, sesame seeds and herbs. Add a dollop of almond butter or hummus for a heartier snack.
#2. Roasted Chickpeas
This recipe is easy, and you can feel free to play around with flavors. All you need is some rinsed chickpeas that are patted dry. Toss with olive oil and add your favorite flavors (garlic, onion, cayenne, salt, etc.). Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast at 450F for 30 to 40 minutes. Shake the tray halfway through to reposition the chickpeas and let them cool when done.
3. Quinoa Tabbouleh
Refreshing and light, this Middle Eastern salad is perfect to make ahead of time and dole out into small containers for snacks. It’s easy to adjust the ingredients to add your favorite flavors, if you like.
4. Salad Rolls
These are easy to make and can incorporate any veggies you have on hand. Start with rice paper, soak in water for 30 seconds, blot dry. Place veggies in the center, along with other ingredients (like quinoa), add sauce and wrap. These can be hearty and filling, great for a snack or a light lunch!
5. Frozen Grapes
It’s just as easy as it sounds! If you find yourself reaching for something sweet in the afternoons, try some frozen grapes instead.
6. Hummus and Veggies
Here’s another easy recipe that you can experiment with: keep a few small tubs of hummus in your fridge/freezer so that you can grab one when you’re heading out. In the same vein, keep lots of pre-cut vegetables in your fridge, so they’re ready when you need them.
7. Chia Pudding
Chia pudding is one of the quickest dishes you’ll ever make. In just 5 minutes, you can put together a delicious pudding that can be topped with some sliced fruit, granola, whatever floats your boat. Here’s a favorite recipe from The 22-Day Revolution Cookbook.
Berry Vanilla Chia Pudding
Makes 2 servings
Ingredients:
½ cup chia seeds
2 cups sweetened vanilla almond milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1-cup berries
Preparation:
- Stir together all ingredients in a bowl until well combined
- Store the pudding in an airtight glass container (with a lid) in the refrigerator overnight
- When ready to serve, stir pudding well and spoon into a bowl. Top with berries and enjoy!
Final Words of Advice
Sometimes, time is so limited that even making these quick snacks can seem impossible. We totally understand! You can pick up 22 Days 20g plant-protein bars at CVS Pharmacy stores nationwide (super convenient).
Having healthy snacks on hand is the most important step to staying healthy over the holiday season, so take a day to grab some ingredients and ensure that you have a happy, healthy rest of the year.
