PROTEIN CRUNCHY BITES

This is one of my families favorites! Even my picky 7 year old will eat this one!  These crunchy chickpeas resemble “Corn nuts” (minus the calories).  This protein packed snack with satisfy your crunchy, salty potato chip craving without all the grease and calories!

  

All you need is a can of chickpeas, olive oil and desired spices.  There are endless possibilities.  Chili powder, thyme, salt and a little olive oil is one of my favorite combinations.

 Begin by draining and rinsing your chickpeas.  Rinsing canned beans decreases the sodium content.

Dry your chickpeas as much as possible.  Decreasing the moisture content will result in a crispier firmer end product.  Too much moisture will cause them to steam, not what were after. 

Spread the chickpeas onto a clean baking dish and bake at 375 degrees for 40-55 min. until brown and crunchy, shaking every 10-15 min.  Promptly remove from the oven and season with oil and seasonings.  Allow to cool and ENJOY!!!

***They can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container, note- the longer they sit in the container the softer they become.

Peanut Butter Cookie Balls

We’re in the thick of the Holidays and food is a prime topic of discussion.  Sugar, sweets and treats crowd our counters this time of year.  Why not opt for a healthier treat option at your next holiday gathering.  This recipe is packed with protein, but don’t let that fool you!  This treat will satisfy your sweet tooth AND protein needs for the day.  Enjoy in moderation!

Peanut Butter Cookie Balls

Ingredients:
1/2 cup Peanuts
1/2 cup Dates
1/4 cup Peanut Butter (I prefer chunky)
1 tsp Vanilla
1 TBL Water (+/- depending on consistency)
4 oz dipping chocolate

Directions:
1. Pulse ONLY the peanuts in a blender or food processor until they are broken down into fine crumbs.
2. Add the dates and peanut butter and pulse to form a sticky dough. (Add the tablespoon of water if the dough gets too sticky).  You want the mixture to move through the processor without getting too wet.
3. Continue to pulse until there are no more large pieces of dates or peanuts.
4. Separate the dough into 12 separate balls.  The dough will leave a bit of an oily residue on your hands but should stick together easily.  Place on a plate and refrigerate until ready to dip.
5. Melt the chocolate slowly in a double broiler or in the microwave.  Dip the pb balls into the chocolate allowing excess chocolate to drip off.  Place in the fridge or freezer to set up faster. Enjoy!

https://pinchofyum.com/peanut-butter-cookie-dough-balls

INDULGE IN MODERATION

Thanksgiving is quickly approaching!  Most families have a traditional holiday feast, with turkey, potatoes and pies galore.  This year indulge in moderation, and begin your new year on track to a healthier you!  Consider these simple suggestions when indulging this holiday season.

 STAY HYDRATED- Drink your water!  The average adult should drink 1/2-1 oz. of water per pound of body weight per day.  For example, if you weigh 200 pounds, you should be drinking 100-200 ounces/day.  A hydrated body has LESS hunger and cravings and MORE efficient metabolism and digestive function. It’s simple, and it works!  

 PRIORITIZE YOUR PLATE- Most holiday gatherings include a plethora of food options.  Ignore the so so, and stick to your favorites.  Don’t waste calories on food you don’t love, make those calories count!

 GET MOVING- Increased calorie intake over the holidays is bound to happen, compensate with increased physical activity and combat the aftermath with something simple, a family walk, or a football game, just get moving!

 FOCUS ON SOCIALIZING- Parties and get togethers aren’t all about food. Make social goals, it’ll preoccupy your mind and take it off all that food!

 CONTROL THE TEMPTATION - Sweets and treats come hand in hand with the holidays.  Control the temptation that surround you, when you make a sweet treat keep a small portion for your family and deliver the rest to friends and neighbors.  Tis the season, share memories, laughs and share your calories too!


https://health.clevelandclinic.org/8-tips-for-healthy-holiday-eating-infographic/

BAKED APPLE CHIPS

Quick and easy low calorie snack that will leave your home smelling like fall time!