Snacks, Snacks, SNACKS!!

As if sorting 3 meals a day for our children isn’t hard enough, they then want snacks in between as well!! The cheek of it!

And with all the noise about avoiding UPFs (ultra processed foods), things can get a tad overwhelming.

So, I thought it might be useful to offer some quick and easy snack ideas – with links to recipes and gadgets referenced.

If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll know that I don’t make anything with a lot of prep – because although I love cooking (actually it’s more the eating I enjoy!), there are a million other things to fit into a day so max 5 mins prep for snacks.

Nutritionally speaking it’s a good idea to include some protein with snacks as it will keep your child fuller for longer. Don’t stress but where possible add a chunk of cheese, a few nuts or another protein of choice.

And yes – reducing UPFs is a good idea but not at the expense of our nervous system! So please do not stress about pre-packaged foods in moderation. Life is all about BALANCE!

So, do what you can whilst prioritising your wellbeing and remember… a calm, happy parent is better for our children than the perfect snack. That being said, when manageable…

A great snack = plant + protein + fibre/healthy fats 

OK – here goes, my top 10 quick-win snack ideas, many of which can be used as snack-tivities; where Diddies get to do an activity that culminates in a snack = win-win!

1. Crinkle-cut (or regular!) veggie sticks and hummus. Shop bought or there’s an easy homemade beetroot version here. 
2. Apple ‘doughnuts’. Use a corer to remove the core from an apple and then cut into thin rings. Spread nut butter (or cream cheese) & add toppings of choice (e.g. seeds, berries, pomegranates)
3. Pinwheels. Lay out ready made puff pastry, spread a thin layer of marmite (or pesto) & sprinkle over a generous amount of grated cheese. Roll up from the longer edge and then cut into 1cm wide rounds. Brush with milk to glaze (optional). Bake according to instructions. Alternative Veggie PInwheel recipe here.
4. Smoothies. Add whatever fruit or veggies you have to a blender along with some milk of choice. A handful of dark greens will provide an iron boost of some ground flax for increased fibre. Frozen bits (including ice) will make the smoothie thicker.
5. Sushi Superheros. Easier than you think and keeps Diddies entertained as they create their masterpieces. You’ll need triangle sushi moulds, nori, sushi rice (NB this is 6 packs – you can get the rice in most supermarkets), fillings of choice and food pens (optional). Full instructions are here.
6. Energy balls. There are tons of variations for recipes for these – one tried and tested, nut free option is here. You can blend up the mix and let your Diddy roll up the balls.
7. Cauliflower ‘popcorn’ with yogurt dip. Break off small florets of cauliflower (or ask your Diddy) and shake in a baking tin with a little oil & garam masala (or spice of choice). Bake for 15-20 minutes, shaking every now and then to avoid burning – drizzle with natural yogurt and a squeeze of lemon. 
8. Nice-cream. This is an absolute winner if the weather is hot. Blend frozen bananas and add toppings. Delicious!
9. Cracker faces. Use cream crackers as a base and allow Diddies to make faces with nutritious ingredients. e.g. sliced olives, cherry tomatoes, grated/spiralised carrot or cucumber pieces.
10. Rainbow ‘pizzas’. Use a crumpet, small tortilla wrap or pitta as a base, spread some tomato puree and allow your Diddy to decorate with colourful veggies. For more inspo and to see the health benefits of ‘eating the rainbow’ click here.