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Frugal and Nutritious Summer Snacks
By: Cyndi Roberts, Mon May 15th, 2006
Lately, there has been a lot in the news concerning obesity in
America. And not just in adults--our children are over-weight,
also.
It's not surprising, considering the advertising dollars that
are spent each year aimed at persuading children that potato
chips, candy bars and other "junk food" are good for them.
While we may not be able to change the world, we can change what
is available to our children in our own homes.
Here are a few healthy alternatives to those fat and sugar laden
"store-bought" snacks.
Please note that snacks and foods containing honey are not
suitable for those children under 2 years of age.
>Peanut Butter Balls
1/2 cup peanut butter 1/2 cup honey 1 cup toasted wheat germ 1
tablespoons powdered milk
Mix ingredients well, shape into balls. Roll in coconut if
desired. Store in refrigerator.
>Popcorn is a great snack food. It is a good source of fiber and
low in calories--until you add toppings. Don't add salt, but try
sprinkling grated Parmesan or American cheese on top.
Zipper top bags of popcorn are handy for taking along on picnics
and other outings.
>Honey "Cracker Jacks"
6 tablespoons honey 1/4 cup butter or margarine 6 cups popped
popcorn 1 cup peanuts
Melt honey and butter in microwave until melted and blended. Let
cool. Mix peanuts and popcorn; pour honey mixture over and stir
till coated. Spread in single layer in shallow baking pan.
Bake at 350 degrees for 5-10 minutes. Stir several times during
baking. Watch closely so it doesn't burn.
Store in airtight container.
>Apricot Nectar
Soak 1/2 cup dried apricots in 2 cups of pineapple juice for
about 1 hour. Process in blender till smooth.
>Fruity Soda Drink
Combine equal amounts of carbonated water with fruit juice.
Sweeten with honey, if desired.
>Banana Smoothie
1 1/4 cups milk 1 banana 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Process in blender till smooth. This is a good way to use up
bananas.
With summer coming up, frozen snacks will be on our grocery
lists. Why not try these alternatives?
>Homemade Frozen Pops
1 6-oz. can frozen juice concentrate, softened try orange,
grape, or fruit punch 1 juice can water 2 containers of plain
yogurt popsicle sticks and cups
Process in blender. Pour into cups and insert sticks. Freeze.
Small paper cups work pretty well as molds for these recipes.
>Make Your Own Pudding Pops
1 small pkg. instant pudding mix--any flavor 1 3/4 cup lowfat
milk
Mix as directed on package. Once again, pour into molds and add
sticks. Freeze.
These ideas should help feed those hungry kids on these warm
spring and summer days!
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Could it be a mistake that "STRESSED" is "DESSERTS" spelled
backwards?
About the author:
Cyndi Roberts' website, "1 Frugal Friend 2 Another" will show
you ways to save money everyday. Receive a free e-course on
saving money at the supermarket! To learn more, visit
http://www.cynroberts.com
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