To Your Health: The Best Snacks Ever

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Making Better Choices With Snacks

I am changing some of the things I do and first on my list is becoming more aware of what I randomly pop into my mouth. Imagine this change...snacking your way through a day. It really is a better way to eat, as long as you keep your food choices healthy, something to fuel your body. Psst...it does not have to be boring or deprive you of anything, it's really your choice!

Join me on my journey to find healthy and quick snack alternatives to that 'break room doughnut'!

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How I Arrived Here 

Gaspard
An obstinate eater can be rather stubborn!

I am not a nutrition expert, in fact as I am discovering more about healthy choices, it's become clear to me that I have been an obstinate eater. My term, don't you dare steal it :-)

So what exactly is an obstinate eater? It's a person that thinks:
  • Age is a number...so what if I'm eating my cheesy, buttery stuff!
  • Screw exercise, I didn't do it in my 20's and 30's so why bother now!
  • Hearing all the hoopla about diets just sets up an obstinate eater to go in the opposite direction!
  • Why should we listen to Aunt Betsy or mom about their 'new healthy eating'? After all, weren't they the one's that passed us the family recipes?

On a personal note...my actions are now speaking louder then words! Mom's 'new healthy eating' is making more sense to me. Ahh, the circle of life!

My new addiction, besides Squidoo of course!

Skinny Chocolate Dip Recipes 

Plus more!

Healthy SnacksChocolate Dip. Prepare a dip using 3 tablespoons fat-free sour cream, 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup. Serve with 1 sliced fruit. Spear fruit slices with a toothpick for dipping fun.

Low Calorie Chocolate Fondue:
1/2 cup skim milk
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 egg yolk
1 can (6 ounces) low calorie chocolate topping
1 to 3 teaspoons instant coffee powder
Several cans (8 ounces) low calorie canned fruits for dipping



Combine skim milk, cornstarch and egg yolk. Beat until blended. Stir in chocolate topping, coffee powder and 1/3 cup juice drained from one of the fruits. Cook and stir over low heat until mixture bubbles and thickens. Approximately 74 calories per serving with fruit.


Enlightened Chocolate: More Than 200 Decadently Light, Lowfat, and Inspired Recipes Using Dark Chocolate and Unsweetened Cocoa Powder

Enlightened Chocolate: More Than 200 Decadently Light, Lowfat, and Inspired Recipes Using Dark Chocolate and Unsweetened Cocoa Powder

by: Camilla V. Saulsbury

Amazon Price: $17.21 (as of 02/09/2010)Buy Now

Customer Review: Once you have the best ingredients in stock, it is time to start cooking. The cookbook provides over 200 recipes that are low in fat and calories. There are recipes for drinks, cookies, candies, cakes, pies, souffl%uFFFDs, and even main dishes. All include dark chocolate or unsweetened cocoa powder. I tested the Mocha-Chip Crispy Rice Bars and the Spiced Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread. Both were delicious and easy to make. I can't wait to try the pudding, the cheesecake, the muffins, and more.

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My Hummus 

Mouth watering goody!

This happens to be one of my favorite foods. Absolutely yummy and flavorful! A little bit goes a long way and used in lieu of mayonnaise it packs a powerful punch. Enjoy my skinny recipe.

In a blender:
  • add a 15 oz can of garbanzo beans (drained and rinsed)
  • juice from 1 large or 2 small lemons (about 1/8 to 1/4 cup if using bottled)
  • grated peel or zest from 1/2 lemon (keep a bit for garnish)
  • 1/3 cup roasted tahini
  • 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO in Rachael Ray's world :)
  • 1-2 cloves of garlic
  • a pinch of sea salt
While blending add 1/2 cup of water...a tablespoon at a time, until the mixture is the consistency of creamy mashed potatoes. Add more water if it's too thick.

Kick it up a notch or change the flavor by considering these additions:
~ Try pickled garlic, some brands even offer seasoned cloves. I love using lemon dill flavored.
~ Use black beans instead of garbanzos.
~ Add flavor infused EVOO.
~ Garnish this taste treat with fresh parsley sprigs, toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds, lemon zest, chopped peanuts, or any of your favorites.
~ Some interesting varieties: Jalapeno & Lime, Thai Basil, and Spicy!


Oster BPST02-B Professional Series Blender, Black

Oster BPST02-B Professional Series Blender, Black

Amazon Price: $58.95 (as of 02/09/2010)Buy Now

A real powerhouse with lots of versatility!

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Better Then Chips 

Enjoy fresh popped corn!



Sometimes I've just got to have a bowl of popcorn. Having this popper on hand makes for a quick and easy snack.

Eaten straight up or with a hint of seasoning it's a better pick then Maui onion kettle chips :)

Kickin' it up a notch?...
  • Try butter spray, many varieties now come with flavoring.
  • Sprinkle a pinch of grated parmesan cheese on top...while it's hot!
  • Make Emeril proud, add some BAM! like cayenne pepper or a shake or two of hot sauce!
  • Wanting something a little sweet? Dust with cinnamon sugar, spray on some butter flavoring.
Presto 04830 PowerPop Microwave Multi-Popper

Presto 04830 PowerPop Microwave Multi-Popper

Amazon Price: $16.97 (as of 02/09/2010)Buy Now

Sized to fit most microwave ovens, including compacts, this popcorn maker pops virtually every kernel of 3 quarts of popcorn in about 2-1/2 minutes. And it works with or without oil and/or salt.

Avg. Customer Rating: Amazon Rating

All Yogurts Are Not Created Equally! 

Make your own!

Healthy SnacksNo denying that yogurt is a great snack, however more and more brands have made it almost impossible to reap the benefits because of what they are adding to the mix. Namely highly sugared fruit and foo-foo things like sprinkles and cookie crunches. Try making your own yogurt with this super easy recipe:
  • 1 qt milk
  • 4 tbsp commercial plain yogurt (Nancy's is my 'best')
  • Honey or Agasweet; to add sweetness
  • Add your favorite fruit; at serving.
There are several yogurt-making devices, but you can easily make it at home in a large thermos bottle using a candy thermometer, if you choose.
  • Sterilize all equipment in boiling water before using
  • Bring milk to a boil over a medium heat, then cool to 100 degrees F
  • In a small bowl blend yogurt with 1/4 cup of the warmed milk
  • Whisk this back into the rest of the warmed milk
  • Pour into a pre-warmed thermos, seal, and set aside in a warm place for 7 hours
  • Turn yogurt out into a bowl, set this into a larger bowl filled with ice water, stir to quicken cooling
  • Cover and refrigerate for 4 hours, or until thickened
  • Sweeten to taste, if desired, and serve with your favorite fruit
Yogurt will keep for 4 to 5 days, covered and refrigerated. Yields about 1 qt. Want to read more? This is a great link: All About Yogurt

Recipe from Essence of Emeril Show


Take a peek at these yogurt making helpers...a set it and forget approach ;-)

Cuisipro Donvier Electronic Yogurt Maker

Cuisipro Donvier Electronic Yogurt Maker

Avg. Customer Rating: Amazon Rating

Amazon Price: $49.95 (as of 02/09/2010) Buy Now

Yogourmet Electric Yogurt Maker

Yogourmet Electric Yogurt Maker

Avg. Customer Rating: Amazon Rating

Amazon Price: $46.48 (as of 02/09/2010) Buy Now

Yogourmet Multi Electric Yogurt Maker with CBA Starter

Yogourmet Multi Electric Yogurt Maker with CBA Starter

Avg. Customer Rating: Amazon Rating

Amazon Price: $69.49 (as of 02/09/2010) Buy Now

Waring Pro YM350 Professional Yogurt Maker

Waring Pro YM350 Professional Yogurt Maker

Avg. Customer Rating: Amazon Rating

Amazon Price: $42.99 (as of 02/09/2010) Buy Now

Give Your Feedback 

Are You Into Healthy Snacking?

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Hmm, does a fast food burger with no mayo count?

Sure am, it's the only way to go!

 

Healthy Snack Ideas 

Quick, easy and yummy

To Your Health: The Best Snacks EverImportant points about healthy snacks:

Have good food alternatives on hand so you are not reaching for that quick-fix bag of chips or decadent donut.

Try new things or simply add a twist to your healthy food routine.

Walk the walk, talk the talk...share your newly found ideas with family and friends. They will love you for it!



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You Are Such a Dip! 

Spinach dip with a twist

Want the skinny on dips? Take the time to read a few store-brand labels and you'll be convinced to go ahead and make your own!
  • Opt for veggies and fruits instead of chips for dipping
  • Tone down your ingredients from the 'real deal' to light or fat-free...in a mixture no one will even realize the difference
  • Use spices for added flavor instead of always going for the instant packaged additions

Home-Deli Skinny Spinach Dip

  • 2 cups of fresh spinach, finely chopped or 10oz package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well drained (squeeze out excess water)
  • 1 bunch of chopped green onions
  • 1 8oz can of water chestnuts, drained and coarsely chopped
  • 1 package of Knorr Vegetable Soup Mix
  • 2 tablespoons of mayonaise
  • 1 1/4 cup plain low-fat yogurt

Combine all ingredients and chill in refrigerator for at least 3 hours before serving. Shredded carrots can be added for more color. For party presentation serve in a hollowed out round loaf of rye, pumpernickel, or sourdough bread. Use bread crumbs and crisp veggies for dipping.

Pfaltzgraff Dip Mix Set. Set includes dip bowl and spreader

Pfaltzgraff Dip Mix Set. Set includes dip bowl and spreader

Amazon Price: $14.50 (as of 02/09/2010)Buy Now

Brush strokes of rosy color and a simple, elegant vine adorn the exterior of the scalloped 14-ounce dip bowl, complemented by a soft yellow interior.

Avg. Customer Rating: Amazon Rating

What The Web Says 

About Healthy Snacks

To Your Health: The Best Snacks Ever

Peeled Snacks - Healthy Snacks on the Go - icyou health videos
http://www.nutritionalchoice.net Snacking for some is a necessity where for others its a habit. For both types, its important to choose a h...
The battle of the prime minister's snacks | Sport and Health News
The battle of the prime minister's snacks. Written by: Editor on 9th February 2010. Bookmark and Share. The battle of the prime minister's snacks. Gordon Brown is now snacking on nine bananas a day instead of KitKats ? but has he made ...
Snacks for the Lactose-conscious. « My Green Health: Improve ...
Good Morning MGHers,. Do you have to watch your lactose intake? If so, check out the list of dairy-free snacks below. You might just find your 3pm favorite? Go Dairy Free Link. This site looks like a great resource, and many of the ...
Agriculture Secretary Vilsack pushes ambitious school nutrition ...
Ag Secretary pushes school nutrition planWASHINGTON ? The Obama administration will ask Congress to improve childhood nutrition by ridding school vending machines of sugary snacks and drinks and giving school lunch and breakfast to more ...
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Great Guides 

Very practical and helpful

Eat This, Not That! Thousands of Simple Food Swaps that Can Save You 10, 20, 30 Pounds--or More!

Eat This, Not That! Thousands of Simple Food Swaps that Can Save You 10, 20, 30 Pounds--or More!

by: David Zinczenko, Matt Goulding

Amazon Price: $13.57 (as of 02/09/2010)Buy Now

Customer Review: I bought this book out of curiosity and found this to be the most helpful book of my life. It's simple in its structure, small enough to bring with you anywhere, and easy to understand. It breaks out cuisine categories, grocery shopping (chicken, drinks, soup, lunch meat, etc), and many restaurants. I've tried several of the simple swaps and always feel not only satisfied but better for the choice I made. I strongly suggest anyone get this. You don't have to be a dieter. If you care about what you put in your body this is the book for you!

Avg. Customer Rating: Amazon Rating

Where are you coming from? 

Natural Vegetables

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