Tag: snacks

  • Back to School Snack Ideas

    Back to School Snack Ideas

    Back to School Snack Ideas

    Creating delicious and healthy snacks for kids as they head back to school is a great way to ensure they have energy and focus throughout the day. Here are some simple and nutritious snack ideas:

    Fruit Kabobs:

    Ingredients: Assorted fruits (e.g., strawberries, grapes, pineapple chunks, melon), wooden skewers, yogurt or honey for dipping.
    Instructions: Thread the fruit onto the skewers and serve with yogurt or honey for dipping.


    Homemade Trail Mix:

    Ingredients: Nuts (almonds, cashews, or mixed nuts), dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots), whole-grain cereal, and dark chocolate chips (in moderation).
    Instructions: Mix these ingredients together in a bowl, and portion them into small snack bags for easy grab-and-go snacks.


    Vegetable Sticks with Hummus:

    Ingredients: Carrot sticks, cucumber slices, celery sticks, bell pepper strips, and your child’s favorite flavor of hummus.
    Instructions: Wash and cut the vegetables, and serve with hummus for dipping.


    Yogurt Parfait:

    Ingredients: Greek yogurt, granola, fresh berries, and a drizzle of honey.
    Instructions: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries in a glass or container. Drizzle honey on top.


    Mini Quesadillas:

    Ingredients: Whole-grain tortillas, shredded cheese, and diced cooked chicken (optional).
    Instructions: Sprinkle cheese and chicken (if using) on a tortilla, top with another tortilla, and heat in a skillet until the cheese melts. Cut into wedges.


    Homemade Energy Bites:

    Ingredients: Rolled oats, honey, peanut butter, mini chocolate chips, and chia seeds.
    Instructions: Mix all the ingredients together, roll into small balls, and refrigerate until firm.


    Apple “Cookies”:

    Ingredients: Apple slices, peanut butter or almond butter, and toppings like raisins, shredded coconut, or mini chocolate chips.
    Instructions: Spread nut butter on apple slices and sprinkle with toppings.


    Ants on a Log:

    Ingredients: Celery sticks, peanut butter or cream cheese, and raisins.
    Instructions: Fill the celery with peanut butter or cream cheese and top with raisins.


    Cheese and Whole-Grain Crackers:

    Ingredients: Sliced cheese and whole-grain crackers.
    Instructions: Pair slices of cheese with whole-grain crackers for a simple yet satisfying snack.


    Smoothie Popsicles:

    Ingredients: Blend yogurt, fresh or frozen fruit, a bit of honey, and pour into popsicle molds.
    Instructions: Freeze until solid for a refreshing, healthy treat.

    Remember to consider any food allergies or dietary restrictions your child may have when preparing these snacks. These snacks are not only tasty but also provide essential nutrients to help your kids stay energized and focused throughout the school day.

  • Coconut Hemp Protein Bites

    Coconut Hemp Protein Bites

    Coconut Hemp Protein Bites

    Looking for a quick snack? These coconut hemp protein bites are ready in minutes and perfectly portioned for lunch boxes, the mid-afternoon slump, or to fuel your next workout. The recipe is scalable and customizable. Double it so you always have a quick bite on hand when hunger strikes. You can swap nuts or dried fruit, add a flavored protein powder, or skip the shredded coconut. Make sure you write down the changes as you make them—there’s nothing worse than perfecting your secret recipe and not being able to replicate it! 

    Coconut Hemp Protein Bites

    Looking for a quick snack? These coconut hemp protein bites are ready in minutes and perfectly portioned for lunch boxes, the mid-afternoon slump, or to fuel your next workout.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 14
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • ½ cup raisins
    • ⅓ cup roasted sunflower seeds
    • ¼ cup sliced almonds
    • ¼ cup walnuts
    • ¼ cup hemp protein powder
    • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
    • 2 tablespoons hemp hearts
    • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
    • ½ cup almond butter
    • ½ cup shredded coconut

    Method
     

    1. In a food processor, place raisins, nuts, sunflower seeds, hemp protein, maple syrup, hemp hearts, and chia seeds. Run machine until mixture is finely minced.
    2. Place nut/seed mixture in a mixing bowl and work in almond butter until dough forms.
    3. Scoop mixture into tablespoon amounts and roll into balls then coat in shredded coconut. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
    4. Enjoy!

    Recipe Provided by INFRA

  • Get Ready for the Big Game with Wholly Veggie!

    Get Ready for the Big Game with Wholly Veggie!

    Get Ready for the Big Game with Wholly Veggie!

    If you’re on the hunt for delicious, plant-based snacks that even a non-plant-based eater would enjoy, we got you! Wholly Veggie’s snacks are the perfect addition to your foodie collection – especially for your full spread for Sunday’s big game 🏈 Check out their gluten-free, vegan goodies below – including a Cheeze Stick Caprese Salad recipe, too!

    Mozzarella Style Sticks

    Perfectly good veggies were rescued to create our crispy crust. It’s called upcycling. Your mouth tastes cheesy, gooey goodness, your body gets veggies. Your brain explodes.

    Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

    Full cauliflower florets, lightly coated in a crunchy panko crust. Our gluten free, panko coating gives our cauliflower a unique, crunchy bite. Paired with our outrageously popular Buffalo Sauce, our Buffalo Cauliflower is perfect as an after work or after school snack. Just bake n’ snack.

    Ranch Cauliflower Wings

    Full cauliflower florets, lightly coated in a crunchy panko crust. Our gluten free, panko coating gives our cauliflower a unique, crunchy bite. Paired with a plant based ranch sauce. Perfect for taco night or Sunday game day. Just bake n’ snack.

    Cheeze Stick Caprese

    This Caprese Salad made from Wholly Veggie's plant-based cheeze sticks is festive, fresh, and perfect for any party or holiday meal! Not only does this showstopper look great, it's super simple to make. 
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 box Wholly Veggie Mozzarella Style Sticks
    • 2 medium ripe tomatoes
    • 6 cherry tomatoes
    • 1 box fresh arugula
    • 3 tablespoons olive oil
    • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
    • pinch salt, pepper
    • 2 tablespoons fresh basil

    Method
     

    1. Prepare wholly veggie's mozzarella style sticks according to package instructions (oven or air fry).
    2. Set marinara sauce pack aside.
    3. Slice 2 medium ripe tomatoes into thick pieces and cut a handful of cherry tomatoes in half.
    4. Toss fresh arugula with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper and place on bottom of serving platter.
    5. Layer tomatoes and warm mozzarella sticks on top of arugula.
    6. Garnish with generous amounts of torn fresh basil.
    7. Serve marinara sauce along side for dipping.
    8. Enjoy!

    Stock up on your favorite plant-based Wholly Veggie snacks – on sale all February long!

    References:

    https://whollyveggie.com/products/mozzarella-style-sticks

    https://whollyveggie.com/products/ranch-cauliflower

    https://whollyveggie.com/products/buffalo-cauliflower

    https://whollyveggie.com/blogs/recipes/cheeze-stick-caprese

  • Chili Nachos

    Chili Nachos

    Chili Nachos

    Got a late night craving? These chili nachos are ready in minutes! Plus, they’re endlessly customizable. Add sour cream, jalapeños, diced onion, or a squeeze of lime to take these to the next level.

    Chili Nachos

    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 2 4-ounce corn tortilla chips
    • 1 Amy's Organic Medium Chili heated
    • 2 – 3 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar, Jack, or Mexican cheese blend)
    • 1 small can sliced black olives drained
    • 1 small avocado diced
    • Amy's Medium Salsa

    Method
     

    1. On a microwave-safe plate, spread the tortilla chips in an even layer with just a little overlap.
    2. Sprinkle 1 cup of cheese evenly over the chips.
    3. Heat on high in the microwave for 1 minute or until cheese is melted.
    4. Add another layer of tortilla chips, sprinkle with remaining cheese and heat for another 1-1½ minutes until cheese is melted.
    5. Top nachos with Amy’s Medium Chili, Amy’s Medium Salsa, sliced black olives and diced avocado.
    6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

    Recipe Provided by INFRA

  • Cinnamon Apple Chunk Cake

    Cinnamon Apple Chunk Cake

    Cinnamon Apple Chunk Cake

    This fall, we’re all about celebrating the abundance of the season. First up, apples! Serve this Cinnamon Apple Chunk Cake as an indulgent breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a simply rustic dessert! No matter what, it will be delicious! You can switch up the type of apple you use but be sure to ask someone in produce what are the best baking varieties we have in now.

    Cinnamon Apple Chunk Cake

    Serve this Cinnamon Apple Chunk Cake as an indulgent breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a simply rustic dessert! No matter what, it will be delicious!
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 5
    Course: Dessert
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    Cake
    • 1 ½ cups flour
    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • ½ teaspoon baking soda
    • ½ teaspoon sea salt
    • ½ cup cane sugar
    • ½ cup almond oil
    • 2 eggs
    • 3 tablespoons buttermilk
    • 1 cup chopped apples
    Topping
    • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
    • 1 tablespoon cane sugar
    • ½ cup powdered sugar
    • 1-2 tablespoons milk

    Method
     

    1. Preheat oven to 350ºF. Grease an 8-inch cast iron skillet and set aside.
    2. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and sea salt.
    3. In a medium bowl, combine sugar, oil, eggs until pale in color. Stir in buttermilk.
    4. Add dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in chopped apple and pour batter into prepared cast iron skillet. Combine remaining sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle on top of batter.
    5. Bake 40-45 minutes or until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean.
    6. Stir together powdered sugar and milk until smooth and drizzle over cooled cake.
    7. Enjoy!

    Recipe Provided by INFRA

  • Festive Popcorn Balls

    Festive Popcorn Balls

    Festive Popcorn Balls

    Festive Popcorn Balls are in your future! Trading in crispy rice for popcorn gives you a cross between kettle corn and a marshmallow crispy treat. Roll the popcorn balls in colorful candies for a festive seasonal flair. Perfect for enticing kitchen amateurs into the mix, you can even melt the marshmallow and butter mixture in the microwave if you want to keep your stovetop free. Just combine the ingredients in a large microwave save bowl and microwave for 30 second intervals, stirring thoroughly, until the mixture is just melted and combined. 

    Festive Popcorn Balls

    Trading in crispy rice for popcorn gives you a cross between kettle corn and a marshmallow crispy treat. Roll the popcorn balls in colorful candies for a festive seasonal flair. Perfect for enticing kitchen amateurs into the mix. 
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 6
    Course: Dessert, Snack
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 8 cups plain popcorn
    • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter cubed
    • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 10 ounces small marshmallows
    • ½ cup white chocolate covered pretzels rough chop
    • ½ cup peanut butter pieces

    Method
     

    1. Place peanut butter candy pieces and chopped pretzels on a baking sheet and set aside.
    2. Heat marshmallows, butter, and vanilla in a large pot over medium-low heat, stirring until smooth and creamy
    3. Fold in popcorn to coat evenly. Form mixture into balls about the size of a baseball and roll in candy.
    4. Place on a parchment lined tray until set, approximately 30 minutes.
    5. Enjoy!

    Recipe Provided by INFRA

  • Deviled Eggs

    Deviled Eggs

    Deviled Eggs

    Thanks to Christine Waltermyer & The Natural Kitchen Cooking School!

    Christine Waltermyer is a local and renowned Wellness Chef, private chef to celebrities, published cookbook author and founder of the Natural Kitchen Cooking School, which offers an online Plant-Based Cooking Program. She also loves shopping at Basil Bandwagon! Visit naturalkitchenschool.com to subscribe to her email newsletter for new recipes, tips, and FREE access to the Power of Veggies mini-course!

    Whether you’re getting ready for back-to-school or you’re throwing the last end of summer party, these deviled eggs are the recipe you’re looking for. Not only is it a simple appetizer, but it can fit perfectly in your lunchbox, too! Scroll down for this easy step-by-step recipe thanks to Christine Waltermyer and The Natural Kitchen Cooking School.

    Print Pin

    Deviled Eggs

    Deviled eggs are nutritious as a snack or party appetizer. Use a pastry bag fitted with a large star tip to get that fun swirl shape of the filling.
    Course Appetizer
    Keyword appetizer, deviled eggs, snack
    Servings 10 deviled eggs

    Ingredients

    • 6 eggs
    • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (I use a keto coconut oil brand)
    • 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
    • 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
    • Sea salt and white pepper to taste
    • Smoked paprika
    • Fresh chives, chopped finely optional

    Instructions

    • Place eggs in a single layer in a medium saucepan. Add enough water to cover by 2 inches. Bring to a boil, cover, remove from heat, and let stand for 12 minutes.
    • While the eggs are cooking, fill a bowl with cold water and ice. When the eggs have finished cooking, use a mesh strainer to scoop the eggs out and place them in the ice bath.
    • To peel the eggs, tap each egg on the wide end until it cracks. Peel under cold running water, using a small spoon to help remove the shell.
    • Cut the peeled eggs in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the yolks. Place the yolks in a small bowl. Mash lightly with a fork. Add the mayonnaise, mustard, pickle relish, sea salt and white pepper. Stir well.
    • Carefully spoon the egg yolk mixture into the egg whites. Feel free to use a pastry bag fitted with a large star tip to make a fancy shape. Garnish with the smoked paprika and optional chopped chives.
    • Enjoy!

    Thank you to Christine Waltermyer and the Natural Kitchen Cooking School for working with us to help promote healthy, nutritious meals and products that are affordable, full of nutrients, and simple to make at home!

  • Snack Smarter!

    Snack Smarter!

    Snack Smarter!

    Kid-approved snacks

    Smart snacking can mean the difference between feeling energetic or fatigued. Plus, proper snacking can help deliver the nutrients children need to properly develop, both physically and mentally. When your household is craving something sweet or savory to tide everyone over to the next meal, these make-ahead wee-eats will earn you the Snack Master crown!

    Pesto Dip Pepper Poppers

    Sweet baby peppers serve as a nutritious delivery method for this pesto-like dip. You can also spread the dip into celery crevices.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 6
    Course: Appetizer, Snack
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 ½ cups cooked or canned navy beans
    • ½ cup soft tofu
    • 1 cup fresh basil
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • Juice of ½ lemon
    • 1 garlic clove chopped
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • 12 mini bell peppers

    Method
     

    1. In food processor container, place beans, tofu, basil, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt and blend until smooth.
    2. Slice off tops of bell peppers and remove seeds inside with either a small knife or your finger. Using small spoon, stuff peppers with dip.
    3. Enjoy!

    PB&J Ice Cream Bars

    This riff on everyone’s favorite childhood sandwich is a delicious snack on a sultry summer day.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 6
    Course: Dessert
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 3 large frozen bananas cut into chunks
    • 1 cup raspberries
    • ⅓ cup peanut butter
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • ⅛ teaspoon salt
    • ⅓ cup unsalted roasted peanuts

    Method
     

    1. Line 9 x 5 in (23 x 13 cm) loaf pan with parchment paper large enough so there is a 1 in (2.5 cm) overhang.
    2. In food processor container, place banana; turn machine on and let it run until banana is reduced to the size of small pebbles. Scrape down sides of bowl; add raspberries, peanut butter, vanilla, and salt; continue blending until creamy. Be careful not to over blend to the point where bananas begin to melt. Pulse in peanuts.
    3. Place banana mixture in pan and spread out into an even layer. If desired, sprinkle some additional peanuts on top. Place in freezer until frozen solid, at least 4 hours.
    4. Using parchment paper overhang, lift frozen block out of pan and, using serrated knife, carefully slice into 8 bars. Store in airtight container in freezer for up to 1 month.
    5. Enjoy!

    Sweet Potato Mini Egg Cakes

    These mini-sized egg cakes offer up a savory way to work more protein and vegetables into snack time. Serve at room temperature or warm in the microwave.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 6
    Course: Breakfast, Snack
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil or avocado oil
    • 1 cup diced yellow onion
    • ½ teaspoon salt divided
    • 2 cups grated sweet potato
    • 2 garlic cloves minced
    • 6 large eggs
    • ¼ cup milk
    • 1 large red bell pepper chopped
    • ½ cup grated parmesean or gruyere cheese
    • 2 teaspoon fresh thyme
    • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

    Method
     

    1. Preheat oven to 375 F (190 C).
    2. In large skillet over medium, heat oil. Add onion and 1/4 tsp (1 mL) salt; cook for 5 minutes, or until softened. Add sweet potato and garlic; heat just until potato is tender, about 2 minutes.
    3. In large bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Stir in red bell pepper, cheese, thyme, remaining 1/4 tsp (1 mL) salt, and black pepper. Stir in cooked vegetables. Divide among 16 mini-sized greased muffin cups. Bake until egg cakes are set, about 15 minutes. Let cool for a couple of minutes before unmoulding.
    4. Enjoy!

    Recipes Provided by Alive Magazine

  • Healthy Mango Smoothie + How-To Cut A Mango!

    Healthy Mango Smoothie + How-To Cut A Mango!

    Healthy Mango Smoothie + How-To Cut A Mango!

    Thanks to Christine Waltermyer & The Natural Kitchen Cooking School!

    Christine Waltermyer is a local and renowned Wellness Chef, private chef to celebrities, published cookbook author and founder of the Natural Kitchen Cooking School, which offers an online Plant-Based Cooking Program. She also loves shopping at Basil Bandwagon! Visit naturalkitchenschool.com to subscribe to her email newsletter for new recipes, tips, and FREE access to the Power of Veggies mini-course!

    If you LOVE mangoes then this recipe is just what you’re looking for. Thanks to Christine Waltermyer and The Natural Kitchen Cooking School, we’re learning how to cut a mango and use them to make a refreshing smoothie that you and your kids will love! Bonus – if you have leftover smoothie, you can turn them into frozen popsicles. Whether you like mangoes fresh or frozen, you’ll always know your snack is nutritious, delicious and will bring you an instant energy boost!

    Print Pin

    Healthy Mango Smoothie

    Course Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
    Keyword breakfast, dessert, Kids, smoothie, snack
    Servings 2

    Ingredients

    • ½ cup frozen banana slices
    • 1 cup fresh diced mango
    • 1 cup frozen mango chunks
    • ½ cup your favorite plain yogurt
    • Pinch of salt
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

    Instructions

    • Place all ingredients in a high-powered blender and puree until smooth. Enjoy served in a tall glass with a straw!

    Notes

    Leftover smoothie makes great popsicles! Just pour into popsicle molds and freeze.

    Thank you to Christine Waltermyer and the Natural Kitchen Cooking School for working with us to help promote healthy, nutritious meals and products that are affordable, full of nutrients, and simple to make at home!

  • Valentine’s Day Snacks in 5 Minutes or Less

    Valentine’s Day Snacks in 5 Minutes or Less

    Valentine’s Day Snacks in 5 Minutes or Less

    thanks to Christine Waltermyer

    Christine Waltermyer is a local and renowned Wellness Chef, private chef to celebrities, published cookbook author and founder of the Natural Kitchen Cooking School, which offers an online Plant-Based Cooking Program. She also loves shopping at Basil Bandwagon! Visit naturalkitchenschool.com to subscribe to her email newsletter for new recipes, tips, and FREE access to the Power of Veggies mini-course!

    Are you looking for sweets and treats for your Valentine this year? Thanks to Christine Waltermyer and the Natural Kitchen Cooking School, here are three simple better-for-you snack recipes that you can make in 5 minutes or less! All ingredients can be found at your favorite local Basil Bandwagon Natural Market location.

    Print Pin

    Strawberry Avocado Sorbet

    Course Dessert, Snack
    Keyword dessert, plant based, valentine’s day, vegan

    Ingredients

    • 1 10 oz. bag frozen strawberries
    • ½ ripe avocado
    • 1-2 tablespoons pure maple syrup OR stevia to taste
    • Juice of 1 mandarin orange or 1 lime
    • Pinch of sea salt
    • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract optional

    Instructions

    • Place all of the ingredients in a food processor and blend until creamy. Serve as is or topped with your favorite toppings such as chocolate chips and fresh sliced strawberries.
    • Store leftovers in the freezer. Before serving, let the strawberry sorbet at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to help it soften. It becomes very hard when frozen!
    • Enjoy!
    Print Pin

    Hummus Sandwiches

    Course dinner, Lunch, Snack
    Keyword dinner, lunch, plant based, sandwich, snack, vegan
    Servings 2 sandwiches

    Ingredients

    • 4 slices your favorite bread
    • 6 tablespoons hummus
    • 1 cup lettuce
    • ½ cup shredded carrots
    • ½ cup sliced avocado
    • Olive oil to brush the bread slices optional

    Instructions

    • Lightly toast or grill the bread slices. If using a grill pan you can brush with olive oil.
    • Cut the grilled bread into heart shapes using a sandwich cutter: Line up the sandwich cutter in the center of a slice of bread. Press down firmly, until it cuts through completely, leaving you with a heart-shaped piece of bread.
    • Spread one slice of the prepared bread with 3 tablespoons of the hummus. Layer on top half of the lettuce, carrots and avocado. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
    • Enjoy!
    Print Pin

    Beet Hummus

    Course Appetizer, Snack
    Keyword appetizer, plant based, snack, valentine’s day, vegan
    Servings 4

    Ingredients

    • 3 medium size cooked beets chopped
    • ¼ cup tahini
    • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
    • ½ teaspoon sea salt
    • 1 teaspoon chopped scallions (only the white bottom part)
    • 2 tablespoons water
    • Olive oil for drizzling

    Optional garnishes for serving

    • Chopped parsley
    • Chopped pistachios
    • Fresh lemon zest
    • Za'atar
    • Flaked sea salt

    Instructions

    • Place the cooked beets in a food processor.
    • Add the tahini, lemon juice, sea salt and scallions. Blend until smooth, adding just enough of the water to reach desired consistency.
    • Serve drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with any garnishes you like, such as chopped parsley, chopped pistachios, fresh lemon zest, za’atar, and/or flaked sea salt.
    • Enjoy!

    Thank you to Christine Waltermyer and the Natural Kitchen Cooking School for working with us to help promote healthy, nutritious meals and products that are affordable, full of nutrients, and simple to make at home!