Healthy Back to School Snack Ideas

Families and children are busy these days, and it can be difficult to eat healthy while on the go especially once school starts. Snacks can be considered mini-meals, and they can also help children feel full until dinnertime. But remember to keep your snacks dense with nutrients.

So here are three quick, easy, and healthy recipes for busy families courtesy of Heather Wayco, director of Clinical Nutrition at Lee Health.

• 1 tablespoon of peanut or other nut butter on apple slices
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt and 1/4 cup fruit of choice
• 2 ounces of hummus with carrots, grape tomatoes or cucumbers

Healthy Breakfast Idea:

Quick Overnight Oats

• 1/2 cup rolled oats (quick or regular)
• 3/4 cup milk of choice
• 1-2 teaspoon syrup or honey (or sweetener of choice)
• 1/2 cup fruit of choice and nuts

Directions

Add oats, milk, and sweetener to a mason jar with a lid. Stir or shake to mix ingredients, and then place in refrigerator overnight. Add fruit of choice and nuts when you are ready to eat!

Healthy Lunch Ideas:

Pita Pockets

• 1/2 pita, round
• 2-3 slices of turkey or meat of choice
• 1 slice of cheese of choice
• Shredded lettuce
• Shredded carrots
• Mustard or mayonnaise

Directions

Cut the pita in half, and then spread mustard or mayo on the inside. Place meat and cheese in the pocket. Add lettuce and carrots.

Back to School Pinwheel Wraps

• 2 10- or 12-inch wraps
• 2 ounces cream cheese
• 6 turkey slices
• Head of lettuce or baby spinach
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots

Directions

Spread cream cheese on wrap. Layer leaf lettuce or baby spinach on top of cream cheese. Place 3 slices of turkey on each wrap, and layer it on top of lettuce or spinach. Sprinkle carrots and tomatoes. Fold the wraps to be hand-held. Cut the wrap in half for lunch or in 4 pieces for a snack.

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For information on Lee Health's Teaching Kitchen classes and demos call 239-599-5314 

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