Ideas for Simple and Energy-Packed Snacks

By Ariane Bilodeau, Copywriter/editor, and health & food blogger

Forget about croissants or ultra-sweet granola bars and ultra-salty crackers from the market. Preparing healthy plant-based snacks is easy. Here are some tips for making simple and energy-packed snacks that children and adults alike will love.

1. Hummus and veggies

The hummus and cracker combo appeals to everyone, but why not go for a less salty, more fibre-rich and more refreshing alternative? Prepare your vegetables at the beginning of the week, then divide them and the hummus into portions for quick, nutritious and delicious snacks.

2. Nuts and dried fruits

This is a sweet and savoury mix that we all know well. There’s no need to eat much, because the high sugar content of dried fruit and the healthy fats in nuts will quickly give you the energy boost you were looking for.

3. Fruits, fruits and fruits

Pick fresh, in-season and ripe fruits. They provide energy and vitamins and, for the most part, do not require any prep.

4. Roasted legumes

Roasted soy beans (edamames), chickpeas or other beans make for a filling snack that’s packed with protein and other nutrients. Try an online recipe or buy some from your local health food store. My personal faves? Wasabi edamames and BBQ chickpeas.

5. Energy balls

In my opinion, energy balls are THE healthy snack. They are easy to prepare and versatile, in addition to being an excellent way to clean your pantry a little. All you need is a bowl and a mixture of:

• Cereal puffs (white or brown rice, quinoa, millet, amaranth)

• Chopped nuts

• Seeds (pumpkin, sesame, sunflower)

• Chopped dried fruit (dates, apricots, grapes, cranberries)

• Nut or seed butter (peanut, almond, sesame, cashew)

• Sweetener (maple syrup, agave)

If the mixture does not stick well, add more nut butter! Roll the balls in a dry ingredient (shredded coconut, sesame seeds, ground nuts) to prevent them from sticking. Keep your energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 5 days or in the freezer.