Between juggling work, school runs, meal prepping, and trying to keep up with the endless list of tasks, it's easy for your own needs to fall by the wayside—especially when it comes to nourishing yourself.
Here’s a list of satisfying, quick, and nutritious snacks for parents looking for a pick-me-up in the afternoon:
1. Greek Yogurt Parfait
A Greek yogurt parfait is not only delicious but packed with protein and probiotics to keep you energized and support your digestion. Layer some Greek yogurt with granola, fresh berries, and if craving a sweeter flavor, a drizzle of honey or agave. You can even sprinkle chia seeds or flaxseeds for an added nutritional boost.
2. Trail Mix
Create your own trail mix by combining nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and dark chocolate. It’s a snack that hits all the right notes of sweet and savory and gives you a mix of fats, protein, and fiber. It's portable and easy to make in bulk.
3. Cheese and Whole-Grain Crackers
A handful of whole-grain crackers paired with some sliced cheese offers a balanced snack with protein and carbs to keep you energized. For variety, add a few olives, some cherry tomatoes, or even a small handful of almonds.
4. Avocado Toast
If you’re looking for something more substantial, make a quick avocado toast. Simply mash an avocado onto whole-grain toast, sprinkle with a little salt, pepper, and top with an egg if you’re craving some extra protein.
5. Smoothie
Blend some frozen fruits and vegetables of choice (like berries, spinach, or banana), a protein source (Greek yogurt or protein powder), and a liquid (your preferred milk). Smoothies are a fast way to get a bunch of vitamins and minerals in one go, and you can customize them based on what you crave in the moment. Plus, they’re super portable!