snacks

Try this healthier version of French fries! By baking the fries instead of frying them and using sweet potatoes instead of the classic white Russet potato, you can keep more of the nutrients and leave behind some of the extra calories and fats. The seasonings can be used as moderately or as generously as you like and feel free to try out your own flavors! 

Ingredients:

Sweet Potatoes

Olive Oil

Salt

Black Pepper

Garlic Powder

Paprika

Directions:

-Preheat oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

It’s getting colder, and comfort foods seem to be everywhere. Those comfort foods that are full of sodium and/or loaded with pounds of sugar are staring you down; what do you do? I’ll tell ya what you do—you get out of that situation, as fast as you can. I know it can be difficult, but you don’t have to succumb to those temptations that are lurking at every corner. I’m not just saying that, either. For me, there are two food groups—sweet and salty. Whenever I eat something savory, it has to be promptly followed by something sweet. You wouldn’t want me to feel imbalanced, would you?

When you are following a restrictive diet (maybe you are gluten-free, vegan or diabetic), it can be hard to find snacks that are healthy, taste good and are easy to take on the go. I used to buy all kinds of granola bars, dried fruit snacks, protein bars, etc. But eventually I found out I was spending a lot of money on these packaged snacks when I could easily make my own. Not only is it healthier to make your own tasty treats, but it's easier on the wallet too! These superfood granola bites only took 15 minutes to make and before I knew it, I was munchin' away on some tasty bites!

As the holiday season approaches, be sure to impress your guests with these quick and easy vegan appetizers! For those of us hosting family and friends for parties or get-togethers, these recipes are a low-stress solution to cooking for a large group. Each of the following recipes requires only a handful of ingredients and a short amount of preparation, but is packed full of great flavors. As always, feel free to experiment with spices and toppings on each of these recipes!

1. Garlic Toast

Ingredients: French-style baguette, olive oil, and garlic.