MyPlate snack tips for kids

10 tips for making great tasting snacks

If you're a budding chef, it's easy to create a great tasting snack! Below are some quick ideas that you can make on your own.

1. create a yogurt sundae
   Top plain, low-fat or fat-free yogurt with fresh, frozen, or canned fruit, like bananas, strawberries, or peaches. Sprinkle whole-grain cereal on top for crunch.
2. make pita pockets
   Stuff a small whole-wheat pita with sliced bell peppers, salsa, and a slice of low-fat cheese. Melt in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
3. jazz up your favorite cereal
   Make a trail mix! Stir 1/4 cup of unsalted nuts, 1/4 cup of dried raisins or cranberries, and 1/4 cup of whole-grain cereal together.
4. make a fruit sandwich
   Cut an apple into thin slices. Spread peanut butter or almond butter between two slices to create "apple sandwiches."
5. dip your veggies
   Create veggie treats by dipping slices or cucumbers, peppers, and carrots in a low-fat salad dressing or hummus.
6. pack an after school snack
   For a healthy after school snack, keep a fruit cup packed in 100% juice or water in your bag. Some fresh fruit, like bananas or oranges, are also easy to pack and eat any time.
7. try a piece of cheesy toast!
   Toast a slice of whole-wheat bread and top with a slice of your favorite low-fat cheese.
8. freeze your fruit
   For a frozen treat on hot days, try freezing grapes or bananas! Don't forget to peel bananas and pull grapes from the stem before freezing.
9. power up with 'roll-ups'
   Roll a slice of low-salt deli turkey or ham around an apple wedge or around a slice of low-fat cheese.
10. build a fruit salad
    Mix your favorite sliced fruits such as pineapple, grapes, and melon.

Go to www.choosemyplate.gov for more information.