Snack Attack

We’ve all been there, when hunger hits hard and you need a snack now. To prevent reaching for empty convenience foods in that “hangry” moment, be a snack master: plan ahead, make big batches, and become friends with your freezer. Choose snacks that deliver high energy, pack nutrient-dense calories, and are low in added sugar. Fruits and veggies (mixed with a little protein, of course) are a good start, yet when eaten au naturel, tend to get boring quickly! To prevent a snack slump, you don’t have to recreate the wheel; just rearrange it slightly. Stick with the basics you know and love: hummus, energy balls, cheese, and grains—but shake up the flavour. Try variations on a theme: reinvent hummus with different spices and seasonal veggies such as roasted butternut squash or bright peppers, even broccoli or purple carrots. Basic energy balls can be turned into “fudge” with a good dose of sweet, sticky dates. Hop on the DIY trend and make your own cheese and seed-infused crackers—it’s easier and far more satisfying than you think (see Lemon Poppy Seed Labneh recipe). The key is to create a dedicated window of time, maybe on a weekend, to prep big batches and seal the deal with proper portioning and labelling. And if all else fails, hold a snack swap! Gather five fearless friends and each make a big batch of something freezer-friendly or that can last in the fridge for a few days. The following five recipes will get you off to a good start.