Guilt Free Snacks

I found a few recipes online that peaked my interest not only because they are good for you, but are also delicious. Some of my favorite items to eat are sometimes not the best for me. Finding just as tasty alternatives lets me eat my desired treat without feeling weighed down. When you are craving an unhealthy snack that you LOVE, try these instead.


Not so good: PIZZA
Try Instead: MINI GREEK PIZZA MUFFINS


This recipe I found online at Eating Well Magazine. The recipe is straight forward and balances just the right amount of pizza flavor. Try it for the Superbowl as a snack instead of less healthy options. The amount of flavor these muffins have make up for the fact you aren't eating greasy pizza. 

http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/mini_greek_pizza_muffins.html

Not so good: MOVIE THEATER POPCORN
Try Instead: SEASONED AIR POPPED POPCORN

 Movie Popcorn is expensive and about 800 calories for a medium. Who wants to eat that. I usually sneak in my own popcorn to movies (putting it in a plastic bag works just fine). This way, I can control what I am eating and how much I am eating. In terms of being healthier, pre-proportioning out baggies of popcorn will help you to not eat the whole batch. This also works great as a snack in kids' lunches instead of potato chips. Plus, you can make one batch of air popped popcorn, and just season small portions when you want to have a snack. This was, you can have multiple flavored popcorn at any time. Some of my favorite seasonings are:

• Lawry's seasoning salt
• A dash of sugar and some cinnamon
• A dash of sugar and a pinch of salt
• Cayenne Pepper, paprika, and Parmesan cheese
• Garlic Powder and salt
• Salt with a drizzle of Smart Balance Omega 3 spread (best for movies)

Not so good: ICE CREAM
Try Instead: FROZEN CHOCOLATE COVERED BANANAS

This treat is super easy. Either cut a large banana into thirds, or a medium sized banana in half and insert a Popsicle stick in each segment. Meanwhile, melt some semi sweet chocolate and gather garnishes for your bananas (sprinkles, peanut pieces, coconut, crumbled cereal). Dip each banana segment into chocolate and roll into desired topping. Put bananas on baking sheet that is lined with wax paper and pop into the freezer until frozen. You can make a bunch at once and store in an air tight container in the freezer. 

• Smart Idea: During Summer break, make a half dozen bananas in advance in store in the freezer. Once children get finished with camp or other outdoor activities, instead of going to the ice cream truck, have frozen bananas on hand for a sweet treat.