Girls just want to have sun, right?! Woohoo! I know I am ready for more sunshine, sandals and colorful dresses. These days are quickly approaching. With the spring months ahead I get so excited for fresh produce and healthier snacks! It’s the time of year where farmers markets abound with seasonal fruits, vegetables and herbs. One of my goals this season is to focus on eating healthier foods – decrease the processed foods and increase natural foods. Working as a Physician Assistant, I love advocating for a healthy lifestyle, preventing chronic diseases, encouraging healthy exercise and eating habits. Let’s spark up some ideas together, mix up the usual snack routine, and talk about 10 snacks that are Physician Assistant approved!
A couple of goals I like to keep in mind for snacking: (1) Rich in nutritious ingredients. (2) Easy, or semi-quick to prepare. (3) Few or zero processed ingredients. (4) Wholesome and satisfying – a lady needs to eat! (5) Under about 200 calories. (6) Low in added sugars.
10 Healthy, Fresh Snack Ideas
- Banana Chocolate PB “Ice Cream” – In a small bowl add a few slices of frozen banana and let them lightly thaw for about 10-15 minutes. Sprinkle Chocolate PB2 over top and mix well. My healthy guilty pleasure!
- Apple slices topped with cinnamon
- Plain Greek yogurt mixed with a couple drops of maple syrup and dash of cinnamon
- Crackers with a spoonful of hummus and avocado slice
- Green coconut smoothie
- Sliced tomato with balsamic drizzle
- Pumpkin spice roasted nuts – In a large bowl whisk an egg white with a tbsp of honey. Stir in 3 cups of mixed nuts. Gradually sprinkle 1 tsp of pumpkin pie spice mix into bowl. Spread onto a baking sheet. Cook for 20 min at 350 deg F, stirring halfway through.
- Brown rice cake with nut butter
- Cucumber “Sandwiches” – Make mini sandwiches between small slices of cucumber. Filling ideas: smoked salmon + cream cheese (similar), spreadable cheese + smoked turkey + dill (here), homemade tuna salad
- Caprese Salad Skewers
What healthy snacks do you love? What fresh foods or recipes do you crave during the spring season? I love trying new foods and hearing other suggestions!
About the outfit: This red dress is gorgeous for the upcoming spring and summer months. I’m calling it my Saturday dress. A little fun, a little happiness, a little flirty and a whole lot of fiesta. Pair with a straw hat and skinny margarita for the ultimate accessories. Priced right under $50, this dress won’t last long. The pink version of this dress sold out very quickly! If you love this dress, keep your eyes for other colorful, sundress finds here.
Live your life joyfully so,
Ashley
What’s the quality on this brand? Love love love this dress on you and have checked out the website a few times since you posted it, but I just can’t tell.
Hi dear! I would say it’s good quality, I think it had 4.2 out of 5 stars on reviews. It’s a cotton dress with embroidery. Red Dress Boutique buys from several clothing companies and the brand of this dress is Umgee.