Quick After-School Snack Recipes to Fuel Growing Minds
The after-school hours can be a critical time for kids, as they need a nutritious boost to refuel their energy and sustain their focus for homework and extracurricular activities. Instead of reaching for sugary and processed snacks, why not offer them delicious and healthy options that will nourish their bodies and minds?
Our pediatricians at CMC Pediatrics shared some of their favorite easy and nutritious after-school snack recipes that are sure to satisfy both taste buds and nutritional needs.
Crunchy Veggie Hummus Wraps
Crunchy Veggie Hummus Wraps provide a balance of whole grains, protein, and fiber from the tortilla and hummus, while the fresh vegetables deliver vitamins and minerals that support growth and development.
Ingredients
- Whole-grain tortilla wraps
- Hummus (store-bought or homemade)
- Assorted fresh vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, spinach, etc. Add a hint of sweetness with apples or pears.)
Directions
- Lay out the tortilla wraps on a clean surface.
- Spread a generous layer of hummus onto each tortilla.
- Thinly slice the assorted vegetables into julienne strips.
- Place the vegetable strips on top of the hummus layer.
- Gently roll up the tortilla, enclosing the vegetables tightly.
- Slice the wraps into bite-sized pieces for easy handling.
Greek Yogurt Parfait with Berries
A Greek Yogurt Parfait with Berries combines protein-rich Greek yogurt with antioxidant-packed berries and the satisfying crunch of granola or nuts. This combination offers a good mix of macronutrients and micronutrients to keep young minds sharp and active.
Ingredients
- Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
- Fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Granola or crushed nuts
Directions
- Start by layering a few spoonfuls of Greek yogurt at the bottom of a glass or bowl.
- Add a layer of mixed berries on top of the yogurt.
- If desired, drizzle a small amount of honey or maple syrup over the berries for extra sweetness.
- Repeat the layers until the glass or bowl is filled, finishing with a final layer of berries.
- Sprinkle granola or crushed nuts on top for added crunch and nutritional value.
Apple Slices with Nut Butter Dip
The Apple Slices with Nut Butter Dip offer a dose of fiber, healthy fats, and vitamins from the apples and nut butter. Nut butters provide sustained energy and satiety, making this snack ideal for helping kids power through their after-school tasks.
Ingredients
- Apples (sliced)
- Nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter, or any preferred nut butter)
Directions
- Wash and slice the apples into thin rounds or wedges.
- In a small bowl, stir the nut butter until it’s smooth and easy to dip.
- Arrange the apple slices on a plate alongside the nut butter dip.
- If desired, sprinkle optional toppings over the nut butter or apple slices.
Our Pediatricians Know Best
These after-school snack recipes are tasty and nutritious. By incorporating these wholesome snack options into your child’s routine, you can foster healthy eating habits and provide the sustained energy they need to excel both in and out of the classroom.
Need more quick and easy ideas to ensure your child gets the nutrition they need to thrive? Remember, the pediatricians at CMC Pediatrics can offer immense help to parents, offering advice and solutions to boost your child’s nutritional needs and keep them healthy all year long.
To set an appointment with a pediatrician at one of our many pediatric offices, call 843-347-8000.
