Healthy Snack Ideas

Written By Judy Doherty, MPS, PCII

Here are some healthy snack ideas you can enjoy on the go or at home. They are great any time of year of course but they also serve as fast snacks on the go or appetizers during the holiday season.

  1. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with fresh berries, a drizzle of honey, and a sprinkle of granola for a protein-rich and satisfying snack.

  2. Apple Slices with Nut Butter: Slice up an apple and pair it with your favorite nut butter for fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats.

  3. Veggie Sticks with Hummus: Slice up cucumbers, bell peppers, carrots, and celery, and dip them in hummus for a crunchy, satisfying, and nutritious snack.

  4. Trail Mix: Make your trail mix by combining a mix of unsalted nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. Portion them into snack-sized bags for quick grab-and-go options.

  5. Hard-Boiled Eggs: Hard-boiled eggs are a great source of protein and nutrients. Sprinkle a bit of fresh herbs or seasonings for added flavor.

  6. String Cheese: String cheese provides protein and calcium. It's easy to carry and doesn't require refrigeration for a few hours.

  7. Avocado Pita Toast: Top whole-grain pita breads with mashed avocado and a sprinkle of sea salt for a satisfying and heart-healthy snack.

  8. Edamame: Edamame (young soybeans) are rich in protein and fiber. You can buy them frozen and steam them quickly.

  9. Popcorn: Opt for air-popped popcorn with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or a light dusting of your favorite spices for a low-calorie snack.

  10. Cherry Tomatoes with Mozzarella: Skewer cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella on toothpicks for a bite-sized snack.

  11. Smoothies: Blend up a quick smoothie with your choice of fruits, a handful of greens, and a protein source like Greek yogurt or a scoop of protein powder.

  12. Oatmeal: Prepare a quick bowl of oatmeal topped with sliced banana and a sprinkle of cinnamon. This is a great option if you're looking for something warm and filling.

Remember to listen to your body's hunger cues and choose snacks that align with your nutritional needs and preferences. A combination of protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich foods can help keep you full and satisfied between meals.

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Judy Doherty, MPS, PCII

Judy’s passion for cooking began with helping her grandmother make raisin oatmeal for breakfast. From there, she earned her first food service job at 15, was accepted to the world-famous Culinary Institute of America at 18 (where she graduated second in her class), and went on to the Fachschule Richemont in Switzerland, where she focused on pastry arts and baking. After a decade in food service for Hyatt Hotels, Judy launched Food and Health Communications to focus on flavor and health. She graduated with Summa Cum Laude distinction from Johnson and Wales University with a BS in Culinary Arts, holds a master’s degree in Food Business from the Culinary Institute of America, two art certificates from UC Berkeley Extension, and runs a food photography & motion studio where her love is creating fun recipes and content.

Judy received The Culinary Institute of America’s Pro Chef II certification, the American Culinary Federation Bronze Medal, Gold Medal, and ACF Chef of the Year. Her enthusiasm for eating nutritiously and deliciously leads her to constantly innovate and use the latest nutritional science and Dietary Guidelines to guide her creativity, from putting new twists on fajitas to adapting Italian brownies to include ingredients like toasted nuts and cooked honey. Judy’s publishing company, Food and Health Communications, is dedicated to her vision that everyone can make food that tastes as good as it is for you.

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