Do you find it challenging to find healthy snacks, that are easy to prepare and that everyone in the family will enjoy. Sounds like a real challenge, right?

It's all too easy to fall into the habit of reaching for convenient, processed snack foods that are high in added sugars, salt, and unhealthy fats, to easily guarantee everyone’s pick. These types of snacks may provide a temporary energy boost or satisfy a craving, but they don't offer much in the way of nutrients and can contribute to a variety of health problems in the long run.

On the other hand, preparing healthy snacks from whole, natural ingredients can take some time and effort, and it can be hard to find options that everyone in the family will enjoy. It can be especially challenging for busy families with limited time for meal preparation, or for those with picky eaters who are resistant to trying new foods.

However, with a little planning and creativity, it is possible to find healthy snack options that are both convenient and satisfying.

Here are 16 Healthy Snacks for any Sweet, Salty, Crunchy or Creamy Craving:

 Sweet

1. Fresh fruit: Apples, bananas, berries, and other fresh fruit are sweet and packed with nutrients.
2. Dried fruit: Dried apricots, mangoes, and other fruit are sweet and portable, making them a convenient snack option. Just be aware that dried fruit is higher in sugar and calories than fresh fruit, so it's best to eat it in moderation.
3. Granola: Granola is often sweetened with ingredients such as Jaggery, maple syrup, or brown sugar. These sweeteners give granola a delicious, slightly caramelized flavour and can make it a satisfying treat. Hachi’s Granolas are made with Organic jaggery.
4. Dark chocolate: Dark chocolate is a tasty treat that's also high in antioxidants. Just be sure to choose a variety that's at least 70% cocoa to get the most health benefits.
5. Energy balls: Energy balls are a great snack option when you need a boost of energy. They're easy to make and can be customized with a variety of ingredients like nuts, granola, dried fruit, and oats.
6. Granola bars: You can make your own granola bars at home using oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit as a base. These can be a convenient snack option when you're on the go. Just be sure to watch the sugar content, as some store-bought granola bars can be high in added sugars.

Creamy

1. Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and calcium, and it can be sweetened with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of fruit. Pairing granola with Greek yogurt can make a satisfying and nutrient-rich snack. You can top the yogurt with a spoonful of Mocha Hazelnut or Pineapple Coconut Granola and add a few fresh berries or sliced fruit for added flavour and nutrients.
2. Fruit smoothies: Smoothies made with fruit, yogurt, and milk or milk alternatives can be a tasty and healthy sweet snack. Mix in Double Chocolate Granola for added crunch and chocolaty flavour.
3. Avocado toast: Avocado toast is a simple and tasty snack that is made by spreading mashed avocado on top of a slice of toast. It's a great option for those who are looking for a quick and easy snack that is both satisfying and nutritious.

 Salty                   

1. Roasted chickpeas: Chickpeas are a good source of protein and fiber, and they can be roasted in the oven with a sprinkle of cinnamon or other sweet spices for a tasty and healthy snack.
2. Roasted nuts or seeds: Roasted nuts and seeds are a convenient, protein-rich snack that can be enjoyed on their own or added to other dishes. Some good options include almonds, peanuts, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds. You can roast nuts and seeds at home or you can also purchase pre-roasted nuts and seeds at the store.
3. Edamame: Edamame are soybeans that are often served as a snack in Asian cuisine. They are a good source of protein, fibre, and other nutrients, and they have a crunchy, slightly sweet flavour. Edamame can be found in the frozen section of most grocery stores and can be prepared by boiling or steaming them until they are tender. They are often served with a sprinkle of salt or other seasonings, and can be eaten on their own or paired with other snacks
4. Hummus with vegetables or whole grain crackers: Hummus with vegetables or whole grain crackers: Hummus is a tasty and nutritious dip or spread made from mashed chickpeas, tahini and other seasonings. It is a good source of protein, fibber, and healthy fats, and it can be enjoyed with a variety of vegetables or whole grain crackers for a satisfying snack. Some good vegetables to pair with hummus include carrots, bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes. Look for whole grain crackers that are made with whole grains, such as oats or whole wheat, and that have a minimal amount of added sugars and other additives.

 Crunchy

1. Apple slices with nut butter: This is a classic and easy snack that combines the sweetness of apples with the richness of nut butter. You can use either peanut butter or almond butter, depending on your preference. Both are high in protein and healthy fats, making this snack satisfying and filling.
2. Carrot sticks or bell pepper strips with hummus: Carrots and bell peppers are crunchy vegetables that are high in fibre and vitamins. Pairing them with hummus, a dip made from chickpeas, adds protein and healthy fats to the snack. Hummus comes in a variety of flavours, so you can choose your favourite or mix things up by trying different varieties.
3. Air-popped popcorn: Popcorn is a whole grain that is high in fibre and can be a healthy snack when it's prepared without added butter or salt. To make air-popped popcorn, you can use a stovetop or electric air popper, or you can make it in the microwave using a brown paper bag.

The Bottom Line

It can be challenging to find snacks that appeal to everyone in the family, especially if you have picky eaters or people with different tastes and preferences. By offering a variety of options, everyone in the family can choose a snack that they enjoy. Happy Snacking!