Movies night is a favourite in our house and the kids look forward to a treat or two. In the past we probably would have opened a mixed bag of lollies or chocolate bars, but these days we are a lot more careful with what we eat and still we enjoy our food. If you are looking for ideas and alternatives to the unhealthy snacks, here are a few suggestions.
Popcorn
Forget the chips, instead have some popcorn. Stay away from pre-packed popcorn, as many have additives. Popcorn is packed with fibre and as long as you go easy on the salt it is a very health snack. Cook your own and have fun hearing it pop. Eat it on it’s own or add your favourite herbs and spices to give it flavour.
Frozen yoghurt treats
Really easy to do. Mix natural yoghurt with your favourite fruit (chopped or pureed) or honey. Place into small cupcake liners or icy pole containers and freeze. Serve when frozen.
You don’t need fizzy drinks
You really don’t need those fizzy drinks, especially before heading to bed. To avoid the sugar load have something that tastes delicious, but is nutrient dense like warm cacao. Or if you wanting a little more, why not make a smoothie with some fruit. Read our article CACAO – MY NEW FAVOURITE DRINK recipes and ideas at http://bit.ly/2bo6JSn.
Picture: Bedtime cacao. Marshmallows added as a treat - leave out for a more healthy choice.
Homemade dips
Why reserve these for parties. They are great change from the sweet snacks and there are so many flavours to choose from. Of course it is better to make your own, as you will know what you have added to the dips, but if you don’t have the time to make your own, then know what you are getting. Read the labels and know what ingredients has gone into making the dips. Avoid additives, make it low salt and healthy fats. Dips I find easy to make at home are hummus, tzatziki and baba ganoush (roasted egg plant) and guacamole. Serve with vegie sticks or crackers (baked, not fried).
We’re nuts about nuts
Another alternative to chips (crisps) is nuts. Of course, having them raw is best (as they haven’t lost some of their nutrients), but being a Saturday night why not roast your own and spice them up. It is really simple – mix nuts of your choice with your spices (e.g. smokey paprika, chilli powder, curry powder, etc) and spread out on a cooking tray. Bake at 180°C for 10-15 minutes, turning at least once during this cooking.
Homemade wedges
These are so easy to make and can be made from potato or sweet potato. Slice your cleaned potatoes into wedges (leave skins on). Coat in olive or coconut oil, rosemary, garlic and a pinch of salt. Of course, if you have other flavours you prefer, use them. Bake in an oven set at 180°C for 25 – 30mins, depending on the size of your wedges. Serve on their own or with sour cream or thai chilli sauce.
Hope this has given you a few ideas. These snacks are a great way to swap out the unhealthy choices like lollies, chocolate bars and fizzy drinks, yet still enjoy your food. If you have any suggestions we would love to hear from you. Just comment below.
Have a great movie night,
Attracta & the earthly passionate team.