Munchies

by Cheng-Ling Chen — January 31, 2008

It's 4 o'clock. Lunch was more than 3 hours ago, and dinner is at least 2 hours away. My stomach is grumbling so loudly I can barely hear myself think. Time for an afternoon snack. The question is what should I have for my fourzies?

Hmmm...some salty finger food would really hit the spot, like potato chips or Cheetos. Good thing I don't keep those around. If I were really good, I would get a piece of fruit, like a banana or an apple, but let's face it, fruit just won't satisfy this hunger. A fruit smoothie might, though, and be much tastier too. But I'd have to run out for Jamba Juice or break out the blender, neither of which I have time for. For quick and easy, a candy bar would do, but I know their siren call: burst of sugar high followed by prolonged, dull headache. No, thanks.

I finally settle for a bowl of granola mixed with plain yogurt. I cut up a pear and throw the chunks in. The creamy-crunchy, sweet-tart combination with sips of hot green tea is a perfect match.

In between bites, I get thinking about healthy snacks that not only taste good but actually help me feel energized rather than bloated and sluggish afterwards. Here are a few I like:

• Crackers and cheese
• Mini-carrots and humus
• Whole grain cereal, dry or with milk
• Cottage cheese and canned peaches
• Dry toast lightly schmeared with butter and honey or PB and J
• Tortilla sprinkled with shredded jack or cheddar, microwaved until cheese is melted
• Trail mix
• Silken tofu lightly drizzled with honey

Anyone out there have other good ones?