Looking for simple snack ideas? I've rounded up 25+ healthy snack meal prep ideas that are quick and easy to prepare ahead of time! Just in time for your New Year's healthy eating resolutions!
(This post is written by Cheerful Choices contributors, Corrin Coons and Sydney Coons.)
Why should you prepare snacks ahead of time?
When you're short on time and tired after a long day, it's easy to reach for processed, less nourishing snack foods like chips, candy, and baked goods. Balance in your diet is important, so it's okay to have these snacks every once in a while. However, it can be helpful to have healthier options available when you want them.
Preparing healthy and satisfying snacks at home is a great way to make sure you always have a healthy option on hand during your busy schedule. It can be helpful to plan out a set day to meal prep these snacks so you are ready for the week ahead of you. It's also best to prepare a couple different snacks so you don't get bored and can enjoy a variety of foods.
Need help? Learn more about this unique cooking program where Mackenzie, a registered dietitian, teaches you how to cook nourishing meals and snacks.
What makes up a healthy snack for meal prep?
Whether you need a snack to get you through a mid-morning slump or to provide you with energy to finish your day off strong, aim for something that has a combo of these 3 nutrients:
- Fiber-rich carbs
- Protein
- Fat
Examples of "fiber-rich carbs" include rolled oats, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds. While carbs are a great energy source, it's helpful to pair them with a source of protein and healthy fat to slow their digestion and avoid an energy crash shortly after eating. This could be apples with almond butter, broccoli with hummus, or almonds with cheese cubes.
It can be difficult to come up with good snack options, so I've rounded up some of my favorites. Here are the best snack meal prep ideas (both sweet and savory!) to help you stay energized throughout the day.
These healthy snacks for meal prep are created and approved by registered dietitians so you can be sure they're satisfying and full of nutrients to help power you through your day!
Need more help with recipes for your busy schedule?
In my coaching + cooking program, I help busy people with beginner cooking knowledge become confident in the kitchen so that they can enjoy nourishing foods they love and stress less about mealtime. Click here to learn more about this virtual program led by a dietitian.
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Bio: Corrin and Sydney are both Registered-Dietitians-to-be from Westminster, Colorado who are passionate about helping others through food and nutrition. They are both currently Food Science and Human Nutrition majors at Colorado State University looking to graduate in 2023 and pursue their Masters in Dietetics. In their free time, Sydney and Corrin enjoy backpacking in the Colorado mountains, doing yoga, and cooking new recipes. They love sharing their passion for food with others and providing food inspiration on their Instagram page. You can connect with them on Instagram @nutri.liciouseats!
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