I decided to give you my best tips for quick and simple meals/snacks so you can get through your day with minimal time in the kitchen. Hey, we’re all moms here and busy ones, at that. So, who couldn’t benefit from some tried and true hacks from this hard at work mom of 13? Enjoy!
1 ~ Granola Bars
How much quicker can you get than unwrapping a granola bar and munching away? There are so many varieties of snacks out there for your cravings…nuts, berries, grain-free, no sugar, etc. However, I would recommend you steer clear of the high sugar and high fructose corn syrup types, as they can wreak havoc on your blood sugar levels.
2 ~ Yogurt
This is an option that can provide you with a complete meal at minimal effort. And, let’s face it Moms, that’s what we’re all about. You can spice up your bowl by adding fresh or dried fruit, nuts, seeds (soaked for added nutrition), oats, granola, coconut (don’t use the oil as it solidifies when cold), ground flax seed (little flavor when using small portions but a great healthy fat), etc. To decrease your sugar levels you can get the plain type of yogurt and add your own honey/stevia and a bit of vanilla extract.
3 ~ Jerky
I love jerky but, I don’t like the price. But, if you just pull it out for Mom’s enjoyment alone, the price doesn’t seem as bad. Again, there are many flavors to pick from.
4 ~ Smoothies
What an easy snack or meal (with the right additions). When I make smoothies I step it up a notch, with both nutrition and fullness in mind. I usually add frozen or fresh fruit, yogurt or cottage cheese (for added protein), nuts, seeds (again, soaked for added nutrition), coconut oil (this will mix in well since you’re using the blender), protein powder, green drink powder or spinach, cream cheese (just a bit as it can be strong in flavor), ground flax seeds, almond/soy/coconut/regular milk, oats, etc. Be creative and make enough to share with the littles since they love them, especially when served in small mason jars.
5 ~ Granola
There are a ton of recipes on line that can get you going. Here are some added ingredients to spice yours up a bit with both flavor and nutrients: coconut flakes, dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, apples, bananas, apricots, etc – add after baking), ground flax seed, nuts, seeds, almond/vanilla extract, chocolate chips (add after baking), or whatever you happen to have in your pantry.
6 ~ Nuts
Grab a bowlful of nuts for a quick snack when your day doesn’t allow for a sit-down meal and you need something to tide you over. Yes, they can be pricey but using them sparingly, as in Mom doesn’t have to share with the littles, can help save the bank.
7 ~ Fresh Fruit
When you just can’t prep a meal grab some fruit on the run. I love sliced apples with almond/peanut butter. I know it sounds crazy but, I guarantee you, it is super yummy. When you have a minute, prep some honeydew melon, cantaloupe, oranges, watermelon, etc. and grab a bowl when needed. You can also slice up some apples and place in a bowl of water with a pinch of vinegar for a quick second, then rinse, and store in the refrigerator til you’re ready for them. Just keeping peaches, nectarines, apples, grapes, and the like on hand will keep you satisfied til you can get a full meal in.
8 ~ Salad
Here’s an old stand-by that can fill you up and keep you going. Just prep the salad ahead of time and top it with some chicken, croutons, nuts, seeds, cranberries, or whatever you have on hand. Keep your favorite salad dressing on hand so you’ll be more apt to pick this option.
9 ~ Avocado
If you love avocado, make a point to buy them by the bag and you’ll be prepared when you need something quick. Just peel, slice, and place on a slice of toast with chopped tomatoes and cheese, or just eat plain, and you’ll have a quick snack. Or, take a quick minute and make some guacamole and have it with some tortilla chips.
10 ~ Cheese & Crackers
This has been simple go-to snacks at our house for years. I usually have a kiddo slice the cheese and whip out the crackers and the snack is ready. If you happen to have some canned soup, then you can use this idea for a quick meal.
I’m sure you have some tried and true ideas for snacks that have never occurred to me. Share a few here so we can all benefit from your tips. Or, share some ideas for snacks that you’ve seen others use in their homes. It’s always a blessing to learn from others along the way.
Ruth Green is a trained professional birth and postpartum doula serving Richmond and Farmville, Virginia area. She is a married Christian mother of 13 hospital and home-birthed children that has experience working with midwives and doctors in both home and hospital settings since 1992. Find more blog posts from Ruth here on the website!
