Top 10 Satisfying & Satiating Portable Snacks
I’m heading to Washington DC this weekend to visit my college roommate (see right) & my boyfriend’s cousin. I cannot wait for a scenic change, some warmer weather, and maybe a sneak peak at the cherry blossoms!
But before I go, I have to prepare for the 4ish-hour long train ride at peak snack-time (around 3pm!).
A well balanced snack contains a mix of complex carbs (read: fiber) & protein with a bit of healthy fat. This winning combo will keep you satiated through any travel delay! But the most important component to snack time is that it’s SATISFYING. If you’re longing for something else, snack time will never end…which leads to a diet disaster!
These days, a billion different types of travel-friendly containers (BPA-free!) exist so almost anything can hit the road or accompany you to work! Even if you’re not traveling anytime soon, here are my TOP 10 PORTABLE SNACKS that are satisfying & satiating, with no refrigeration needed!
10. Edamame. Soybeans themselves provide a combination of carbs, protein, & fat. Shelled or unshelled, fresh or dry roasted, edamame is the perfect satisfying travel companion!
9. Turkey roll ups. Wrap 3 oz sliced turkey with large lettuce leaves and some spicy mustard.
8. PB&J. If you have at least 3 hours before next meal, some combo of PB&J is a winner. It’s not only nostalgic and extremely portable (there’s a reason your mom packed it for lunch daily), but nutritionally sound, if made on 100% whole grain or sprouted wheat bread.
- Watching your sugar? Try swapping the jam for fresh fruit…like apple slices or banana.
- Getting bored of the traditional? Switch up your nut butter and try something new. But look for at least 7g protein/serving!
7. Hummus & Veggies. This Mediterranean favorite may seem complicated to travel with, but with the proper tupperware, it’s a winner. Hummus, made from chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil is a Mediterranean staple that is most definitely filling, delicious, and non-odorous (important when you’re in class, at work, or an airplane!).
Looking for something a little different? Try my Roasted Red Pepper Mung Bean Dip!
6. Smoothie-licioius. Before you hit the road, blend 6 oz yogurt with frozen fruit. For extra power, add in some greens! Throw it in a portable cup & GO!
5. Fruit + Cheese. So you may not have it displayed on a pretty platter like your most recent cocktail party, but cheese (fat + protein) & fruit (healthy sugars/carbohydrates) provide a nice balance for your taste buds & tummy. Keep your cheese to 1 oz of any low-fat variety.
4. Trail mix. I’m not talking about those pre-packaged kinds that come with chocolate-coated candies, plus added salt & sugar. Make your own trail mix with an assortment of nuts and seeds, dried fruit, and some cacao nibs or dark chocolate chips. Watch your portion sizes because these 3 components are caloric, but provide an essential balance of nutrients to be satiating.
3. Popcorn. Air-popped popcorn is probably one of my favorite snacks! You can eat SO much for minimal calories. Before you hit the road, pop just under 1/4 cup of kernels in a brown paper bag in the microwave. 3 cups of air-popped corn ranks in at 100 calories.
2. Yogurt. It comes in it’s own container…how portable is that?! Just don’t forget a spoon!
1. Ants on a log. This childhood classic can be thrown in a container and go anywhere! Get creative too…top with creamy cheese (try goat or creamy feta) or nut butter and decorate! (PS- This is great to get kids involved in healthful eating!).
What’s your favorite portable snack?!?! Let me know in the comments section below!
XO