Kids need the right balance of nutrients to grow and thrive. You can support your children’s healthy development and brain function by enticing them to eat nutritious foods that also happen to be delicious. Check out these kid-friendly after-school snack ideas.
Banana “Ice Cream” Bites
You may have already heard of faux ice cream. It’s really just pureed, frozen bananas. Kids love it because it tastes and looks like ice cream, and parents love it because it’s actually healthy. To make it even more enticing, turn it into bite form. Slice several ripe bananas and freeze them. Then, puree until smooth, and stir in a handful of mini chocolate chips. Spoon the mixture into muffin cups, freeze, and enjoy! You can also try adding a splash of vanilla or mint extract to the pureed bananas for extra flavor.
Barbecue Chickpeas
Chickpeas—also known as garbanzo beans—are high in fiber and protein, making them the perfect after-school snack for kids of all ages. Head to your local market to buy a can of chickpeas, and then rinse and drain them. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 375 °F for 40 minutes, shaking the sheet once or twice. Transfer the chickpeas to a bowl, toss with your kids’ favorite barbecue sauce, and return them to the cookie sheet. Bake for five to 10 minutes more. Serve immediately.
Fruit Leather
Fruit leather is ideal for kids who like to customize their snacks, as you can use just about any combination of fruits. Try mixtures like sour cherries, plums, and pluots, or peaches, nectarines, and apricots. Wash the fruit and remove stones or seeds as needed. Slicing isn’t required. Toss the fruit into a saucepan and cook on medium-low heat until the fruit has broken down and the mixture has thickened. Allow to cool. Transfer the mixture to a food processor and blend until smooth. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour the mixture onto the sheet—it should be about one-half inch thick. Bake at 170 °F for five to six hours. Cool, and then cut into strips.
You’ll find a wide assortment of healthy snacks at Villa's Market - Nogales, as well as healthy ingredients to make your own after-school snacks. They are a family-owned and operated grocery store that offers fresh, high-quality products at affordable prices. To inquire about their store hours or location in Nogales, AZ, call (520) 281-9717.
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