A teen’s schedule often includes school, extracurricular activities and a part-time job on top of home duties and homework. Snacks keep the body going between meals, and choosing healthy snacks helps keep weight under control while helping teens stay healthy overall. Many snack ideas are easy to assemble and convenient, whether enjoyed at home or on-the-go.
Whipped Bananas
Frozen bananas are the key ingredient in a simple and sweet teen snack idea. Peel and freeze the bananas overnight or longer for the best results. Cutting the bananas into chunks before freezing them makes them easier to use. Place the frozen bananas in a food processor or blender and process them until they are smooth and creamy. (This might take a few minutes depending on the power of the blender or food processor.) The result tastes like banana ice cream without the fat and empty calories. Coconut or a few chocolate chips add more flavor to the mix.
Nachos
Nachos offer a salty snack idea for teens. This snack is easy to adapt based on the ingredients you have available. Lay tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Top the chips with drained and rinsed black beans. Chicken or ground beef also works on the nachos. Sprinkle the chips with shredded cheese before baking at 400 degrees for five to 10 minutes, or until the cheese melts. Top with sour cream, salsa, green onions, tomatoes and other fresh vegetables.
Hummus Sandwich
Hummus is a dip-like snack ingredient made from chickpeas and tahini. Hummus often comes in different flavors at the grocery store. Spread a serving of hummus on a bagel, English muffin or pita round. Top the hummus with chopped vegetables for a more substantial snack. Hummus also works well with pita chips for a faster snack option.
Popcorn Mix
Air-popped popcorn is a healthy snack option, but adding in other ingredients and flavors spices it up. For a simple flavor boost, sprinkle on Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning or your favorite dry seasoning. Add other dry snack items for a popcorn-based trail mix. Ideas for mix-ins include nuts, pretzels, dried fruit or chocolate chips. The popcorn mix is easy to keep on hand when out and about.
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