You’re on campus, between classes, and hangry. No time to wait in line at the Union and you’re looking to avoid those overpriced on-campus vending machines full of candy and chips. Instead, grab these quick easy snacks on your way out the door in the morning:
1. Nuts
Nuts are one of our best sources of healthy fats. The great thing about nuts is that they are such an easy snack. As a handful of nuts is one whole serving already, eating just one serving a day can leave you feeling full and satisfied. Some money-saving advice when it comes to buying nuts is to get them in the bulk section of your grocery store – more nuts for your bucks.
- Almonds are also loaded with antioxidants and rich in vitamin E!
- Cashews contain high amounts of magnesium and vitamin K, making them great for muscle response and bone health!
- Peanuts are high in protein and are also a low Glycemic Index food! (which means you stay fuller for longer)
2. Smoothies
Smoothies are an easy, and delicious ways to get in your daily serving of fruits and even vegetables too! And they aren’t just for breakfast. Pour your smoothie a cold insulated thermos if you want to drink it later in the day. Buying frozen fruit is an affordable way to get the most value for your money and the good news is that they won’t go bad as fast as fresh fruit! Some other fun additions for your smoothies are:
- Chia seeds
- Leafy greens like spinach or kale
- Nut milk
- Peanut butter
- Plant-based protein powder
3. Dark Chocolate
I mean, who doesn’t love chocolate? And who wouldn’t want to be able to eat chocolate without feeling any guilt? Well, I am telling you to do just that! Not only is dark chocolate delicious, but it is also a source of antioxidants and can help increase your good cholesterol while also lowering the bad cholesterol. Throw some dark chocolate chips into a trail mix with nuts and dried fruit if you’re looking for a satisfying mid-day pick-me-up.
4. Popcorn
Lightly salted popcorn is a personal go-to! I like mine popped in coconut oil, but any sort of popcorn can do the trick. Popcorn is also high in fiber so it will keep you feeling fuller longer. Won’t have a microwave to pop your own on campus? You can buy popcorn already popped in the grocery store! Simply portion it out into Ziploc bags and keep it in your pantry as an easy grab-and-go on your way out the door.
5. Hummus with pita and vegetables
Try your favorite hummus with some different dippers! Some great suggestions to try:
- Pita bread
- Naan
- Baby bell peppers
- Carrots
- Celery
- Pretzels
There are so many different flavor combinations that can be made from this snack that it will keep you coming back to it from week to week as your new go-to! Plus, hummus is a great source of protein.
6. Avocado
Avocados, the super fruit of our generation. It gets all the attention for being packed with healthy fats, but it also has so many other great benefits. Avocados are higher in potassium than bananas, they are loaded with fiber, and they can be made into guacamole. If you haven’t been a big fan of avocados in the past, try sprinkling a little salt on top, or mix it up with some salsa to make some guacamole. Below are some great ways to incorporate avocados into your snack:
- Straight up with a spoon
- Add crackers
- With a hard-boiled egg (the ultimate duo) on a piece of toast
- Tuna!
- Corn chips and guacamole
7. Pretzels & Cheese
Cheese, every American’s favorite food, when paired with some pretzels makes for a very appetizing and cheap on-the-go snack. The best part? You can pick whichever cheese you want or change it up from week to week to prevent boredom. Remember to throw an ice pack in your snack bag to keep it cold.
8. Stone Fruits
Our stone fruits such as peaches, plums, nectarines, apples, and pears are great grab and go snacks! They are affordable and are best during the summer season.
9. Greek yogurt
Greek yogurt is a great source of calcium while also being friendly for people with lactose intolerance. Yogurt often is on sale in the grocery store and you can either buy in bulk and add your own fruits and granolas or experience the different flavors already prepared. If you’re looking for a salty/sweet combo, try dipping your pretzels in yogurt. So good!
10. Bananas
Bananas are a wonderful snack because they are self-contained inside their own nature made packaging. A banana on its own is delicious, but there are also many other ways to eat a banana to keep it interesting.
- Bananas and peanut butter
- Frozen bananas are great in smoothies.
- For a special treat, try dark chocolate covered bananas.
- Add it to your yogurt parfait!
- If your bananas have gotten a little too ripe, make them into a delicious banana bread!
Remember, while all these snacks are great options, there are so many different snacks out there! Start with this list as a guide, but try out your own combos. Take a pic of your favorite snack and email it to us at ucan@nau.edu so we can post on our Instagram page. Happy snacking!
Riley Perrin, Health Coach