5 midday snack recipes for a healthier lifestyle: Avocado and smoke salmon or Chickpea and Quinoa Salad?

Quick healthy snack recipes: Greek Yoghurt Parfait with Mixed Berries and Nuts (Image: Canva)

When hunger strikes in the middle of the day, it can be tempting to reach for processed snacks or sugary treats. However, keeping your midday snack both healthy and delicious is essential for maintaining energy levels and ensuring you’re treating your body with the care it deserves. Here are a few recipes that are easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and luxurious enough to elevate your snacking game:

Greek yoghurt is an excellent source of protein and calcium, making it an ideal base for a nutritious snack. This snack is not only rich in antioxidants and protein but also provides a balanced blend of carbs, fats, and fibre. The mixed berries bring a burst of flavour, while the nuts add texture and satiating fats.

• 1 cup Greek yoghurt
• ½ cup mixed berries
• A handful of nuts (walnuts, almonds, or your favourite choice)
• A drizzle of honey (optional)

Instructions: To prepare this luxurious parfait, layer Greek yoghurt with mixed berries such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries. Top it off with a handful of walnuts or almonds for added crunch and a dose of healthy fats.

For a snack that’s high in omega-3 fatty acids, try this combination of avocado and smoked salmon. This recipe is perfect for those who want something light but filling. Avocado provides healthy fats that promote skin health, while smoked salmon is a lean source of protein and omega-3s, essential for brain and heart health.

• 2 whole-grain rice cakes
• ½ ripe avocado, mashed
• 50 gm smoked salmon
• A sprinkle of sea salt and black pepper
• A drizzle of olive oil (optional)

Instructions: Spread the mashed avocado over the rice cakes, layer with smoked salmon, and season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. This snack is not only satisfying but also adds a touch of elegance to your midday routine.

For a fibre-rich, plant-based snack that’s also high in protein, this chickpea and quinoa salad hits the spot. It’s light yet nourishing and can be prepared in advance for convenience. The combination of quinoa and chickpeas provides all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source.

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 1 small tomato, diced
• A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
• A squeeze of lemon juice
• A drizzle of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions: Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl and divide into small cups for individual servings. This snack is not only refreshing but also energising, thanks to the nutrient-dense quinoa and chickpeas.

For those who prefer something sweet but still nutritious, apple slices with almond butter are a perfect option. Almond butter is packed with healthy fats and vitamin E, while apples provide fibre and a refreshing crunch. Sprinkle chia seeds on top for an extra boost of omega-3s and fibre.

• 1 medium apple, sliced
• 2 tablespoons almond butter
• A sprinkle of chia seeds

Instructions: Simply spread almond butter over each apple slice and top with chia seeds. This quick snack is not only delicious but also keeps your blood sugar levels stable, preventing those afternoon energy slumps.

For a quick, savoury snack, hummus with vegetable sticks offers a tasty combination of protein and fibre. Hummus, made from chickpeas, is rich in plant-based protein, while the vegetable sticks provide a low-calorie crunch. Choose colourful vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers for an extra dose of vitamins and minerals.

• 1 cup chickpea, soaked and boiled
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds
• 3 clove garlic
• ¼ tsp cumin powder
• ½ lemon
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ cup olive oil
• Pinch of kashmiri red chilli powder / paprika
• Assorted vegetable sticks (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers)

Instructions: Dry roast sesame seeds on low flame till it turns golden brown. Blend to fine powder and add all the ingredients. Blend to smooth paste. Top it up with olive oil and chilli powder. Serve it with the veggies.