As you may know by now, most of my posts are not overly serious.  They tend to be easy going, somewhat humorous (I think) and practical.  This post, however, may not be as funny!  As you look around the world you see more and more unhealthy snack foods thrown in your face through grocery shelves, media, fast food drive thrus, billboards etc.

I wanted to take some time and go over some nutritious snacks as opposed to a quick candy bar or cookies.  Now this is not rocket science but I think we need to really make an effort to take a stand and eat healthier.  We are the only ones who are able to look after our bodies. As you get tired through the day, it is easy to grab a cup of coffee or some candy.  The problem is, sugar snacks spike blood sugar only temporarily and caffeine provides a brief lift.  Ideally it is better to choose foods with a sustained boost such as complex carbohydrates like whole grains and protein.

These days, we see more obesity in children and young adults which is probably due to the convenience factor.  However today I will list some of my favorite snacks that are just as quick as grabbing a pack of cookies or a candy bar.

Some Quick Healthy Fuel Snacks

1. Low Fat Cottage Cheese with Berries (Mrs. Zesty eats this all the time )
2. Banana topped with Peanut Butter



3. Slices of Turkey with Whole Wheat crackers.
4. Yogurt mixed with Fruit and Nuts



5. Hummus plus Veggies ( Carrots and Celery )
6. Yogurt Smoothie with Berries and Bananas

This is just a short list of course.  What I want from you is to add a comment and tell me your favorite “pick me up” snack.  I want to hear them all.

Remember for a healthy pick me up, combine carbs and protein for the slow burning energy to get you through the day.

Have a great Wednesday!

Take care

zesty

MERRY CHRISTMAS!  I’ve only made these pancakes a couple of times but they are so good that I had to share them with you.  The secret ingredient, as far as I can see, is nutmeg.

This recipe is perfect for Christmas morning!  Wake up, open a few presents and you can then whip up these pancakes in no time.  The whole grain oatmeal pancakes are super simple with an easy to follow recipe.

The first time I made these pancakes, I found them to be so hearty and filling that I had a hard time finishing three of them.  Normally, I can eat three pancakes before the rest of the family is even seated!

Enough about my voracious appetite, lets get started with the oatmeal pancake recipe.

Quick note, as I have said in the past, make sure your ingredients are fresh especially the baking powder.

Ingredients

• 1 Cup Oats
• 1 Cup All Purpose flour
• 1 Cup Whole-wheat flour
• 2 Tbsp. Baking powder
• 1/2 Tsp. Nutmeg
• 1/2 Tsp. Salt
• 1 1/2 Cup Milk
• 1/4 Cup Vegetable oil
• 2 Eggs
• 1 Tsp. Vanilla
• 2 Tbsp. Honey

Method

1. Preheat a large skillet over medium to medium low heat.



2. Whisk together the oats, flours, baking powder, nutmeg and salt.
3. Using the same whisk, but in a second bowl, whisk together the milk, oil, eggs, vanilla and honey.



4. Pour the wet into the dry mixture and stir briefly, just until combined.
5. Spoon into the skillet.



6. Once bubbles form on the outside of the pancake and do not fill in again  – it is time to flip them over.



7. Flip just once  – plate them up.



8. Enjoy!

I hope everyone has a great Christmas day! Let me know what Santa brought you – I love hearing about all the fun gifts.

Take care

zesty