It is a well-established fact that most Gen Z and Gen Alpha kids have a schedule that could put worker bees to shame! Academic rigour and post-school activities are at an all-time high. This demanding schedule can sometimes derail them completely from a healthy diet. Most times they’re just reaching out for whatever’s handy in their school or college canteens, and other times they’re probably stress eating. Working parents often don’t have the bandwidth or time to monitor their snacking habits closely.
In this generation of fast food and accessible home delivery it’s extremely critical to establish the mindset of eating healthy too. How about starting them off on some healthy snacks, which are also tasty, filling and keep them satiated?
Banana Milk Toast:
This is a trending recipe because of its nutritional profile. Banana is rich in fibre and great for gut health, while milk offers protein and calcium. And of course, you get your carbs from the toast! Drizzle a little honey and you’ve got the perfect on-the-go snack for kids of any age group.
Fruit Smoothie:
Packing in multiple nutrients in the form of a snack, the fruit smoothie can be made with different combinations of fruits. Ensure you don’t add any packaged fruit juice to it in any form. Keep it to fresh fruit and yoghurt. This is also the perfect way to smuggle in some greens and veggies that your child might otherwise resist – such as spinach or kale.
Baked Sweet Potato Fries:
Do we know anyone who dislikes French-fries? Kids and adults alike love to experience the joy of biting into a hot, crisp slice. But wouldn’t it be nice to replace it with something healthier? Sweet potatoes are the ideal substitute, especially since they’re tasty, as well as rich in vitamin A - great for the eyes and skin. Simply slice them up, and bake them in an oven instead of frying them.
Carrot Sticks With Hummus:
Let’s face it, kids love dips, and they’re also a great way to get nutrients in. Steer clear of mayonnaise, mustard and ketchup. Instead amp up your hummus game. Serve your kids some raw or boiled veggies such as carrot or cucumber sticks with a bowlful of fresh hummus. You can also try making beetroot hummus to add some fun, colour, flavour and nutrition to your snack.
Paneer Tikka:
Easy to make and an eternal favourite, this one is also recommended by nutritionists and food experts as a one-dish smart snack. Rich in protein and calcium, it is a healthy and no-fuss snack idea that can be packed in a tiffin box too!
Frozen Berry Yogurt:
This is a low-fat and low-calorie snack, which is high in protein and great to taste. Blend your favourite berries with some raisins, chilled yogurt and honey as per your taste. Your yoghurt is ready!
Muffins With Cream Cheese:
These don’t just make a great snack, they’re also a fabulous breakfast option. Savoury muffins are underrated but have so much to offer in terms of taste and texture. Surprise your child by serving this unique dish, which they’re sure to adore.
Homemade Popcorn:
Here’s a no-brainer! You don’t have to wait for movie night to serve your child popcorn. Whip up a batch at home and put a smile on their faces.
Mashed Avocado And Boiled Egg:
This super-easy recipe packs in a whole lot of vitamins and protein, and is perfect for the child who needs a pick-me-up after loads of physical activity. If you want to snazz it up a little, sprinkle some black pepper and salt before you serve it up.
Vegetable Nuggets:
To make the healthiest vegetable nuggets, mix up boiled green veggies like peas and broccoli, and then mash them together with cheese. This is a great snacking idea that combines the goodness of veggies with the decadence of cheese. Serve them hot with mint chutney or ketchup.