Inevitably as Christmas approaches, if we are hosting holiday celebrations, thoughts turn to 'what to serve' our guests.
In the interest of 'better for us' choices, here are some healthy twists on some traditional snacks to share with friends. In the last 20 years, the 'cheese balls' and sausage rolls of the 60s have evolved into easy cheesy snacks which are ready in 10-12 minutes and are sold in 1001 combinations; usually encased in puff pastry or similar.
Do I love these? yup.. They are bite-sized, tasty treats... that's for sure. Do they pile the weight on? yup. Are there healthier choices out there? I hope so. Let's see.
Edamame (Green Soy Beans) Watch for NON-GMO options!
If you've ever tried these tasty pop in your mouth salty appetizers in a Japanese restaurant, you may agree that this protein-packed, nutrient dense snack is delicious and pairs well other healthy snacks. It's easy to make and is available in local grocery stores in the frozen veggies section. Just follow the package instructions. The one I make is ready in a jiff.. Drop the package into boiling salted water and it's ready within 10 minutes. Serve immediately. HINT: To eat, hold pod in your hand and press the bean into your mouth. Reminds me of eating fresh green peas on the pod.
Not only are they delicious but they are well-known for being a complete protein source; containing all essential fatty acids and lots of fibre. They make a super snack and are tasty when tossed into grains, pasta and meat dishes.
EASY bean dip
Ingredients
- 1 cup soaked navy beans black beans, or garbanzo beans*
- 2 cloves fresh garlic
- ¼ cup tahini
- 1 bunch of fresh dill parsley, cilantro or basil finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ cup lemon or lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Cook soaked beans in a large pot for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
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Place garlic, lemon juice, and half of the beans into a blender or food processor and blend well.
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Add the remaining beans, tahini, olive oil, salt, and pepper and blend until smooth (add water if necessary).
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Transfer spread to bowl and stir in the fresh chopped herbs.
Hummus
Ingredients
- 3 cups canned chickpeas drained and rinsed
- 2 teaspoon olive oil
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper or to taste
- 2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric
- Juice of ½ of a lime
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350ºF (180ºC) In a bowl, combine chickpeas, oil, cayenne pepper, cumin seeds, turmeric, lime juice, salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
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Spread mixture on a baking sheet.
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Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, turning every 20 minutes, until chickpeas are golden brown and crunchy.
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Allow to cool. Serve.
Recipe Notes
Adapted from Michelle Gelok (CBC)
Roasted Red Pepper Mini “Pizzas”
Ingredients
- Multi-grain crackers or mini-pitas
- Roasted red peppers drained, chopped or sliced
- Grated cheese
- Olives
- Mushrooms sliced or diced
- Options: Carmelized onions pesto, Cherry tomatoes, arugula, your favourite herbs
Instructions
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Can substitute Chevre (goat cheese), Feta or other sharp cheese. Using a strong cheese allows a smaller amount to create a 'big flavour'.
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
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Assemble large multi-grain crackers on a parchment-covered cookie sheet and sprinkle with cheese and, basically whatever appeals to you.
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It's tasty with olives, mushrooms or sprigs of basil but these ingredients are suggestions only!
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Bake 5-8 minutes, until the cheese is melted, and serve
Enjoy !
carollittle
Thanks Riti!
I am hopeful that my ideas are helpful.
Please do jump in and comment or ask a question.
I would love to create an online community of people
who want to live optimum lives!
Riti
your website is really packed with some great advice
keep up the good work