Quick And Healthy Snack Ideas For On-The-Go Lifestyles

Snacking is inevitable, whether you're on the road, working the night shift, exercising, running errands, or travelling. Unfortunately, it's easy to grab a quick, unhealthy snack when you're hungry or low on energy.

These snacks are often packed with sugar, fat, sodium, and unhealthy preservatives, not to mention high in calories. Alternatively, you might skip snacking altogether, only to overindulge at dinner, leaving you feeling terrible (and guilty) afterwards.

By reading this blog, you will learn about snack foods that are good for you.

Nuts

Nuts make an excellent nutritious snack while you're on the move. They can easily satisfy quick hunger relief. They offer a substantial amount of protein and beneficial fats, promoting a lasting feeling of fullness.

While all nuts are suitable for consumption, almonds, pistachios, and cashews boast the lowest calorie content. Avoid nuts roasted in oil or coated with sugary or salty additives. Opt for raw or dry-roasted varieties whenever possible.

 

Seeds

Seeds are an excellent protein source, rich in omega-3 fats, fibre, Vitamin B (boosting energy), and antioxidants.

Seeds can be purchased from stores or roasted at home. Simply spread them on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 45 minutes. After cooling, sprinkle them with salt or a blend of brown sugar and cinnamon for a delicious treat.

Caution: Seeds can be dense in fat and calories, so it's wise to enjoy them in moderation.

Popcorn

Here's a reason to indulge in popcorn while watching your favourite film after dinner - A single cup of air-popped popcorn has just around 30 calories!

Moreover, popcorn is both gluten-free and fat-free, while being an excellent source of dietary fibre.

Mix Of Nuts, Seeds And Dry Fruits

Trail mix never fails as a handy on-the-go snack, offering convenience and versatility.

Combining nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and possibly oats boosts energy levels while providing a well-rounded blend of protein, fibre, fats, and vitamins.

Be cautious of added sugars in commercially available options and aim for a trail mix comprising solely natural ingredients. 

Roasted Chickpeas

Roasted chickpeas might be a surprising addition to your snack repertoire, but they're wonderfully flavourful, crunchy, and incredibly nutritious, providing a good dose of protein and fibre.

Savour them with a sweet touch by adding honey and cinnamon, or opt for a savoury twist with herbs and spices.

Preparing them is a breeze. Start by draining, rinsing, and drying a can of chickpeas. Then, toss them with 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil and your chosen savoury or sweet ingredients before spreading them out on a baking sheet.

Bake until they turn crispy and golden brown. Store them in a container and enjoy them from time to time.

Edamame Beans

For those adhering to a plant-based diet, the merits of edamame beans are well-known!

These beans deliver a nutritional boost, boasting around 7 grams of protein, 3 grams of fibre, and a mere 90 calories in just half a cup. Moreover, they provide all nine essential amino acids required by the body for protein synthesis.

Savour them chilled with a sprinkle of sea salt, or bake them in the oven for a satisfying crunch

To prepare them for baking, arrange the edamame on a baking sheet, drizzle with 2 teaspoons of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. You can experiment with paprika or curry for an adventurous twist!

Bake for approximately 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until they achieve a crispy texture.

Rice Cakes

While they may lack flavour, rice cakes' versatility is what makes them stand out; they harmonise well with a variety of toppings! Additionally, rice cakes are gluten-free, catering to dietary preferences.

For a pre-workout energy boost, try spreading nut butter and honey on a rice cake and adding slices of banana. Alternatively, top it with avocado and cottage cheese for a mid-afternoon snack rich in healthy fats and protein.

Hummus & Veggies

Hummus paired with fresh vegetables is an excellent choice for satisfying afternoon cravings or game-day snacking.

Made from garbanzo beans, hummus is a protein—and fibre-rich option that will keep you satiated, while the veggies contribute their well-known array of nutrients.

Opt for baby carrots, celery sticks, or cucumber slices as perfect companions to hummus. They provide a satisfying crunch and a wholesome dose of goodness.

Savouries, Snacks & Dips

Craving something salty and crunchy? We understand!

Rather than opting for potato chips, indulge in alternatives like tortilla chips, rice thins, sesame sticks, or veggie sticks. They deliver the satisfying crunch and flavour you desire without the guilt—the perfect snack food for you!

Pair them with black bean salsa or hummus for an extra protein boost, or enjoy with guacamole for a dose of healthy fats. Also, you can get other healthy ready made snacks from Fast Fuel Meals.

Final Thoughts

Opting for any of the items mentioned in this blog can contribute to your journey toward healthier eating habits. Therefore, select one of the options provided and go on a nutritious snacking adventure!