Buzz
We’re already in the middle of February, a time when determination fades and resolutions are forgotten. Even if you started the year with the best intentions for healthy eating, the cold weather, a chocolate-filled holiday, and life itself can easily throw those plans off course.
If you’re looking to get back on track—or just need some fresh ideas for healthy snacks—the good folks at Martha Stewart have a helpful formula to create the perfect snack: “Pair a fruit or vegetable with a protein, then finish with a touch of exciting flavor.”
When you think about it, this explains why classic snacks like ants on a log and hummus with carrots work so well—protein keeps you feeling satisfied, while the plant element helps you feel great. However, it’s essential to not overlook the role of fat.
Adding a (healthy) fat, of course, not only enhances the flavor of the snack but also gives it a complete taste. Fat unites protein and plant into a balanced bite, leaving you feeling not just full, but truly satisfied.
Martha and her team offer plenty of ideas for these kinds of combos (and you should head over to her site to check them out), but I've also come up with a few of my own (since that’s part of my job):
Cottage cheese + halved cherry tomatoes + a splash of olive oil + everything bagel seasoning
Hard boiled egg + a dab of butter + pickled cauliflower
Blanched asparagus wrapped in turkey + pesto for dipping
Pear slices + marscapone cheese + crunchy granola
Cucumber slices + hummus + feta + za’atar
Plain yogurt + roasted vegetables + chili crisp + spiced, toasted nuts
Apple slices + ricotta + honey + candied pecans
...and there are many more options to explore.
Along with the protein + plant + fat + flavor mix, think about the texture when crafting your snack. A bit of crunch can add excitement, keeping your taste buds engaged, even if the snack is “healthy.”
