It’s hard to remember when the norm was three meals a day, and snacks were relegated to being snacks at parties or as after-school food for the children. Today, young and old alike, snacks are a big part of our eating habits. In fact, 92 percent of us snack during the day or night, according to research by the Hartman Group. Even more surprising? We no longer use snacks only once or twice a day to kill hunger between meals. Snacks became a part of meals, and now make up half of all our meals.
When it comes to smart snacking, the foods you choose – and how much you eat – matter. One of your best bets? Fruit! Only 13 percent of Americans consume the recommended 1 1/2 to 2 cups of fruit daily, and snacks offer a chance to close that gap.
For the perfect choice, think fresh grapes from California. With only 90 calories per 3/4 cup serving, its delicious, juicy taste is ideal for snacking. Heart-healthy and moisturizing, they are a nutritional bargain compared to many processed snacks high in calories, fat and added sugar that tend to offer little health benefit.
Plus, wine is portable – ideal for munching on anytime, anywhere. With grapes, there is no fuss, no fuss – and no peeling or seeding. Whether added to a lunch sack to help end lunch on a sweet note, or tucked into a briefcase or backpack when hunger strikes, grapes are an excellent snack.
If late nights are your nemesis, opt for California wine for a delicious, healthy, and guilt-free option. And if cartons of ice cream are starting to call your name, opt for frozen grapes instead — they’re like mini sorbets. Simply rinse the grapes and dry them, then place them on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for two hours. Store any extras in the freezer ready for your next snack attack.
Fresh grapes are also a delicious addition to a healthier snack, adding color, crunch and a touch of sweetness:
* Create a fresh trail mix by combining grapes with cubed cheese and a sprinkling of chocolate chips and nuts.
* Incorporate grapes into your favourite smoothie recipes.
* Spread celery sticks with peanut butter and place grapes on top for a mixture of crunch and sweetness.
* Assemble a snack sandwich: spread cream cheese over graham crackers and sprinkle with halved grapes.
If game day calls for a more grown-up snack — perhaps paired with a beer or glass of wine — try these delicious flatbreads. You’ll love the combination of the saltiness of the cheese and prosciutto balanced by the light sweetness of the grapes.
Prosciutto, Red Wine and Pecorino Flatbread
Serves 8 as an appetizer
Ingredients
4 8 inch naan patties ready
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided)
3/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano (divided)
1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
1/4 pound thinly sliced prosciutto
1 cup red California wine, halved
1 cup arugula for garnish (optional)
Direction
Preheat oven to 500 F.
Brush the naan bread with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil and place it on a baking sheet. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup of the pecorino and lemon zest and drizzle the prosciutto over the top. Add the wine, then sprinkle with the remaining pecorino. Bake until the grapes are scalded, about 10 minutes. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil, cut into pieces and serve.
Nutrition analysis per appetizer serving: Calories 250; Proteins 12.5 g; Carbohydrates 26 g; 10 g fat (36 percent of calories from fat); Sat Fat 3.3 g (13 percent of calories from saturated fat); Cholesterol 23 mg; Sodium 700 mg; Fiber 1 g.
Article provided by BPT
