Simple and satisfying road trip snacks
Planning a road trip in August? Are snacks on your list of things to pack? If not, add them!
Summer can be busy, which means your usual healthy habits may fall by the wayside at times.
One way to ensure your body is getting the nutrients it needs is by being prepared and packing healthy snacks for when you are on the go. Snacks are important because they help maintain your energy levels between meals, especially when you are not following a regular daily routine. Plan to choose snacks that are high in both protein and fibre, as these will help keep you full longer.
It can be challenging to find healthy snack options on the road – which is why it’s a great idea to plan ahead and pack some before you leave home!
The main advantage of preparing your own snacks is that you are in control of what and how much of each ingredient is used. Some quick snack options you can make at home include home- made trail mix, hummus with whole grain crackers and veggies, energy bites, and air-popped popcorn.
Even something as simple as fresh fruit, such as in- season strawberries, blueberries or watermelon, can make for a great snack too.
Plan to bring a cooler for the car, as this will allow you to bring along more fresh items like hummus, vegetables, yogurt and fruit.
Sometimes packing your own snacks is just not feasible, especially for longer trips.
If you end up hungry on the road there are a few tips and tricks you can follow while shopping for snacks, to ensure you are choosing a healthy option.
If you are deciding between two options – such as granola bars or crackers – try comparing nutrition labels; look for items that are lower in added salt, sugar and saturated fat and higher in fibre and protein.
If you are stopping at a gas station aim to have part of your snack include a fruit or vegetable and go for fresh items like sandwiches and yogurt over the prepackaged items like chips and chocolate bars.
When choosing a beverage opt for water to quench your thirst instead of a sugary beverage like pop or fruit juice.
Last, if you are at a restaurant ask if there is nutrition information available, as this can help you identify the healthiest options on the menu.
Looking for a new homemade snack idea to try? This delicious tomato and basil hummus is a perfect place to start!
It is quick and simple to make, requiring only two steps, and checks the boxes for both fibre and protein.
Pair it with some refreshing cherry tomatoes, carrot sticks or whole grain crackers and you’re good to go!
Tomato Basil Hummus
Ingredients:
1 cup (250 ml) drained and rinsed PC Blue Menu Chickpeas
1 cup (250 ml) packed PC Fresh Basil
1/3 cup (75 ml) drained PC Splendido Sun-dried Tomatoes in Seasoned Oil 1/3 cup (75 ml) raw pumpkin seeds 1/3 cup (75 ml) fresh parsley leaves 2 green onions, chopped
3/4 tsp (4 ml) salt
1/2 tsp (2 ml) freshly ground black pepper 1 tsp (5 ml) grated lemon rind 4 tsp (20 ml) fresh lemon juice 5 tbsp (75 ml) extra virgin olive oil Directions:
• Combine chickpeas, basil, tomatoes, pumpkin seeds, parsley, onions, salt and pepper in food processor; purée until almost smooth. Add lemon rind, lemon juice and 2 tbsp (25 ml) water; purée until combined. Continue to purée while drizzling in oil until incorporated.
• Transfer hummus to serving bowl. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Makes 8 servings
Nutrition Information ( Per Serving): Calories 140 Cal, Fat 12 g (of which 1.8 g is saturated), Sodium 240 mg, Carbohydrate 7 g, Fibre 2 g, Protein 3 g Recipe source: pc.ca
Have a nutrition question? Want to book an appointment or shop with the dietitian?
Book online at www.atlanticsuperstore/dietitians or contact me by phone at 902-921-0700 or by email at ellen.greenan@loblaw.ca.