As we approach the end of August, we will begin our transition into autumn and fall into the back-to-school mode. Even if you don’t have kids, it’s a time we prepare for the last quarter of the year, one that is filled with holidays and of course – lots of food.
I’m getting ahead of myself, so before we start thinking about Thanksgiving, Halloween and Christmas, let’s focus on back-to-school and how to keep those school snacks healthy for your kids.
Smart Snacks to Pack:
Fruit Leather
Leave the sugar-loaded fruit snacks on the store shelf and make your own. Be Well guest blogger Getty, shows you how to make your own rhubarb fruit leather here. Pick up a copy of her book, the Prairie Fruit Cookbook for variations using other fruits like strawberries.
Canola Granola
You can’t go wrong with granola, it’s a smart choice anytime of day. Pack it with a side of yogurt for lunch, substitute for cereal at breakfast , or make an after school fruit parfait with this our Canola Granola.
Hummus
The nutty flavour of hummus really appeals to children’s palettes. Serve with their favourite veggies, crackers or pita chips. And if you want to be sneaky, spread their sandwiches with hummus instead of mayo or butter.
Crunchy Munchy Cookies
This cookie is a winner. Seriously, it IS a winner. It came in as a runner up in the Ontario Home Economists Association Canola Cookie Contest. This crunchy cookie contains bran and flax seeds, allowing you to sneak in some whole grains your kids don’t have to know about. Read all about Emily Richardsof Food Network Canada fame, who came up with the recipe and her inspiration behind it.
Jenn’s Chewy Granola Bars
People can’t seem to get enough of Jenn’s Chewy Granola Bars and they make the perfect snack to pack. Keep in mind that they contain peanut butter; but in this post Jenn shows us how to make them nut-free for school. Bonus: They freeze well.
Here is Ellen on Great Tastes of Manitoba showing us how the granola bars are made and what makes them good for you.
No-Knead Whole Wheat and Quinoa Bread
The best part about this wholesome loaf, is that it can be enjoyed as a snack or as the base for sandwiches. It requires no kneading so anyone can make it.
To start the day off right, see your kids off to school with a nutricious breakfast. I talk about the importance of breakfast in Breakfast of Champions. For even more recipe ideas, check out our Back-to-School Pinterest board.
Be Well…Wendy
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