by Ms. Natasha Haynes, MSU Extension Service
Video by Jonathan Parrish
With my kids out of school for the summer, snacks are an important part of our routine.
Summertime snacks are my favorite, but I want to be sure they are nutritious and filling. For lasting energy and more substance, I think CFP: complex carbohydrates (whole grains), fiber and healthy fat, and protein.
By paring complex carbs, healthy fats, fiber, and protein in every meal and snack, you can keep those bellies fuller longer.
Here are some of my family’s favorite belly-filling snacks:
Peanut butter and apple slices. Take it up a notch and melt the peanut butter and drizzle it over your apples. Add some extra toppings, such as chopped nuts and chocolate chips, for a fun fruit nacho.
Fruit roll-up. Spread room temperature cream cheese on a whole-wheat tortilla, and top with your favorite fruit. We like bananas and strawberries.
Pizza, pizza, pizza. You can make pizza out of many things, including whole grain bread, crackers, or even bell peppers. For a quick and easy pizza, try spreading your favorite tomato or spaghetti sauce on a piece of whole-grain bread. Then, top with your favorite toppings, like ham, veggies, and cheese. Bake on 350 degrees F until the cheese melts. You’ll have a kid-friendly pizza that you can even let the kids help you prepare.
Stay cool with some of our recipes, including chocolate-covered frozen fruit, flavored water, and frozen yogurt pops. You can find these recipes and more in Extension Publication 3568, “Healthy Snacks for Kids on the Go or at Home."
Bottom line: Summertime is a fun time. Keep it simple. Snack smarter and enjoy.
For more helpful tips like these, visit extension.msstate.edu and join our Nutrition and Wellness Facebook group.