Grab-and-go snacks for young athletes and busy kids
Here are two easy make-ahead recipes that kids can grab and go. I use mason jars for the portability, and you can customize the toppings to the kids’ preferences. Both are great sources of protein and full of fibre. Make a big batch on Sunday night and you can have snacks for the week. I use almond milk, but any milk or milk substitute will do. If you choose skim, add some healthy fat with yogurt for a creamy result.
Morning Oats
INGREDIENTS
- Old-fashioned oats (not steel cut or quick)
- Milk (almond milk or milk substitute will also work)
- Greek yogurt (plain)
- Various toppings
INSTRUCTIONS
The base recipe uses 1-part oats to 1-part milk and ¼ cup Greek yogurt. Stir all ingredients in a bowl, then choose your flavour and refrigerate overnight.
FLAVOUR OPTIONS
Apple pie: Layer chopped apples, pecans, maple syrup and cinnamon with the base oats recipe.
PB&J: Layer your favourite jam and peanut butter (or nut alternative if taking to a school event) with the base oats recipe.
Chocolate banana: Add 1 tbsp of cocoa per 1 cup of basic recipe with 1 tbsp of maple syrup or honey. Layer with chopped bananas.
Overnight Chia Pudding
INGREDIENTS
- Chia seeds
- Milk (almond milk or milk substitute will also work)
- Honey or maple syrup
- Your choice of flavours
INSTRUCTIONS
The base recipe uses 1 tbsp of chia seeds to ¼ cup of milk. It’s important to stir well and then let it set for a few minutes, then stir again to avoid lumps. Add either honey or maple syrup to sweeten and refrigerate overnight.
FLAVOUR OPTIONS
Blueberry crumble: Add fresh or frozen blueberries with granola.
Strawberry cheesecake: Add 1 tbsp of cream cheese to base recipe and stir well. Add fresh or frozen strawberries and layer with crushed graham crackers.
