This post is brought to you by Pleasant Kitchen. The thoughts and ideas are that of Love Hope Adventure.
I’ve been experiencing a lot of challenges in the snack category with my new diet. Ever since last October, I have eliminated dairy, grains, and sugars as much as possible. This has not been an easy switch, but the health benefits I’ve experienced have far outweighed the frustrations.
Here’s what I’ve learned about coming up with healthy snacks.
1. Stick With Fresh Foods
For the most part, if it can be stored in the pantry, I just about can’t eat it. That means I have to keep a lot of fresh foods on hand. Some of these snacks include:
- Hard boiled eggs
- Fruits
- Raw vegetables
- Non-dairy yogurt
- Lunchmeat
- Hummus
All of these foods are usually what I eat for breakfast and lunch as well. I’ve struggled a bit with feeling bored with this selection.
2. Purchase Manufactured Snacks
In the last few weeks, I’ve found a few snacks that I can eat that are made by manufacturers. Larabar makes gluten-free, dairy-free bars. These have relatively low sugar, and I’ve found a few types that are actually grain-free.
Also, I have found some Kind bars that are gluten-free and dairy-free. Again, there is sugar in these bars. Some of them are grain-free, while others are just gluten-free. Either way, these make for a healthier snack.
The biggest problem I’m having with these types of snacks is the cost. These bars are upwards of $1 a piece. That is quite costly.
3. Make Healthy Snacks
I’ve been playing around with some healthy snack recipes that I can do in advance. It takes some time for me to get these things set, but I am able to eat off of them during the week.
Some of the ideas I’ve had include:
- Coconut banana muffins
- Baked chickpeas
- Potato biscuits
- Dried fruits
The dried fruits are one that I’m still working on. I’ve tried to dry out fruits in the oven before and successfully destroyed them. What a waste.
Dehydrator For Dried Fruit
There are so many wonderful dried fruits that I see on the shelves at the grocery store. Again, this is another situation where cost is a struggle. Specialty fruits are pretty expensive, even if I buy the generic brands.
This is where I think a dehydrator would certainly come in handy. Of course, before I bought one, I would certainly check out dehydrator reviews to see the different functionalities.
When I was in college, a lady came in with her dehydrator for a show and tell day in class. She talked about all the amazing things she was able to do with her dehydrator. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone be that excited about a kitchen gadget!
Honestly, though, every time I’ve been in this place where I’m trying to save money and make more foods, I have considered the idea of getting a dehydrator. It’s on my mind again, because dried fruits have been a really good, portable snack. The problem has been how much those things cost at the store.
What about you? Have you had any experience with dehydrators?
