While traditional “back to school” time may look different this year, families can still start making healthier choices as we begin the school year. Whether your family is headed back to work, back to school or plans to continue online learning, there is never a bad time to try something new. Now more than ever, it is important to make choices that support the health and well-being of your family, while satisfying their taste buds. According to MyPlate.gov, people need between 1-3 cups of vegetables daily to support a healthy diet. Making beans and vegetables an integral part of a healthy lifestyle is easier than you may think — because at Green Valley, organic “good for you” foods taste delicious, too. Try the tips and ideas below to kickstart the school year with some healthy, wholesome snacks!
Let Kids Help Pack for Lunch and Snacktime
During a busy week, it may seem faster for you to just pack the kids’ lunches for them the night before to save time. However, letting your kids take ownership over packing their lunch and their food choices can help them learn to be responsible and to make the right choices while creating a balanced meal or wholesome snack. Keep nutritious snacks and food options on hand in your refrigerator and pantry, and make sure there is a variety of snacks from which to choose. Getting kids involved in the kitchen is a great way to develop responsible, healthy habits early on, and will also help motivate them to enjoy fruits, vegetables and other healthy foods — and lighten your load a bit!
Hummus and Carrots
Hummus is a delicious, zesty and nutty snack that’s packed with plant-based protein, and it’s incredibly simple to make at home! Use our hummus recipes to create a variety of different flavors to match your family’s tastes and preferences, including smoky roasted garlic, Greek, artichoke, pesto and southwest. Not only do Green Valley organic garbanzo beans taste great, but they are a good source of fiber, potassium, iron and protein to keep kids full, focused and energized throughout their school day. For a convenient on the go snack, put hummus in the bottom of a Mason jar (or cleaned out plastic peanut butter jar) along with carrot sticks, pita and celery sticks for a flavorful, healthy snack your kids will be excited to dig into. If you prefer spicy, crunchy and salty snacks, try roasting Green Valley garbanzo beans in your oven for a delicious, crunchy and guilt-free alternative to potato chips.
Single-Serve Veggie Cups
When it comes to making vegetables part of your daily life, convenience is key and taste is crucial, especially if you have a picky eater on your hands! Green Valley single-serve organic vegetable cups are a perfect addition to any lunchbox — for kids and parents alike. All Green Valley organic beans and vegetables are harvested at the peak of freshness right here in the USA. Every bite is loaded with crisp golden-yellow corn, cut green beans or smooth nutty tasting sweet peas, making these cups a perfect, no fuss way to include vegetables in snacktime, lunchtime and even on the go. Each of our Green Valley organic vegetable cups is USDA Certified Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified so you can be sure that no artificial pesticides, fertilizers or chemicals were used. Our single-serve cups are available in three varieties: whole kernel corn, cut green beans and sweet peas. Each can be microwaved for just 30 seconds, or enjoyed as is!
Healthy Smoothies
Smoothies are a refreshing, great tasting and (often) sweet way to ensure your child gets the necessary nutrients, fruits and even greens they need to grow, fast! According to ChooseMyPlate.gov, blending low-fat yogurt with fresh or frozen fruits can be a fun way to keep kids involved in their snack time choices. Adding greens like spinach, kale, or Green Valley organic peas is a great way to add more nutrients to your smoothies. Our peas bring you a healthy dose of vitamin C, proteins and antioxidants. You can prepare fruit and vegetable mixtures ahead of time by freezing overripe fruits like bananas, berries, peaches, pineapples and more. If your kids are headed to school, make a smoothie as a quick breakfast solution. As fall approaches, try this delicious, creamy pumpkin power smoothie using Green Valley organic canned pumpkin. This cold treat is ready in just five minutes, and is a healthy option whether you’re looking for a midday snack or even an after dinner dessert!
Get Creative
Merge arts and crafts with snack time by letting your kids roll up their sleeves and make their own healthy, fun creations. Snacks like ants on a log, homemade fruit popsicles, mini personal pizzas and more make snack time even more fun. For savory snacks, try English muffin pizzas or pizza bagels. Keep delicious and healthy toppings on hand like Green Valley organic peas, whole kernel corn and green beans to keep vegetables top of mind as they build their own special treats. When it comes to infusing creativity into mealtime, the sky’s the limit!
What are some of your child’s favorite healthy snacks? Share your thoughts with us on Facebook and Instagram for a chance to be featured. For more recipe inspiration, visit our recipe page.
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