5 QUICK AND HEALTHY SNACK RECIPES USING NUTS FOR TRAVELS

Published On 15/01/2025

Travelling, whether for work or leisure, often disrupts our mindful eating habits. Unpredictable schedules, long journeys, and limited access to fresh food can lead to unhealthy snacking choices. But it doesn't have to be this way! With these quick and healthy snack recipes using nuts, you can pack nutritious munchies that will keep you energized and satisfied on the go.

Nuts, particularly almonds and cashews, are fantastic for travel snacks. They are packed with protein, healthy fats, fibre, and essential vitamins and minerals, providing sustained energy and keeping hunger pangs at bay. Easily available across India, these versatile nuts can be incorporated into various quick healthy snacks, even without roasting!

Here are some easy snacks to make in 5 minutes that are perfect for your next trip:

1. Almond and Banana Smoothie

If you can access a blender during your travels, this smoothie is a refreshing way to refuel. It's also one of the best road trip snacks if you have a cooler.

Ingredients:

• 1 frozen banana
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 1/4 cup almonds
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• Date syrup (optional)

Instructions:

• Combine all ingredients in a blender.
• Blend until smooth and creamy.
• Adjust the sweetness according to your preference.

Tip: Add a handful of spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients. You can also use other fruits like berries or mangoes instead of bananas.

2. No-Bake Almond Energy Balls

These energy balls are suitable for a quick energy boost on the go. They require no cooking and can be made with just a few simple ingredients, making them easy snacks to make in 5 minutes with little ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almonds
• 1/2 cup pitted dates
• 2 tablespoons desiccated coconut
• 1 tablespoon almond butter (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder

Instructions:

• In a food processor, grind the almonds into a coarse powder.
• Add the dates, coconut, almond butter, and cardamom powder.
• Process until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
• Roll the dough into small balls.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Tip: For added flavour and nutrition, you can roll the energy balls in chopped nuts, sesame seeds, or cocoa powder.

3. Curried Cashew Dip with Vegetable Sticks

This dip is a healthy snack to make as a flavourful alternative to processed dips. It pairs well with raw vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers, making it one of the best road trip snacks.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cashews (soaked in water for at least 2 hours)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

• Drain the soaked cashews and rinse them well.
• In a blender, combine the cashews, water, lemon juice, curry powder, cumin powder, and salt.
• Blend until smooth and creamy.
• Transfer the dip to a small container and pack it with your favourite vegetable sticks.

Tip: Adjust the consistency of the dip by adding more or less water. You can also add a small piece of ginger or green chilli for an extra kick.

4. Cashew Butter and Banana Bites

This simple and satisfying snack combines the goodness of almonds and bananas in a convenient bite-sized treat. It is an easy snack to make in 5 minutes and have numerous health benefits as well.

Ingredients:

• 1 banana, sliced into rounds
• 2 tablespoons cashew butter (try Zantye’s creamy cashew butter!)

Instructions:

• Spread a layer of cashew butter on each banana slice.
• You can have them as open-faced bites or top with another banana slice to make a sandwich.

Tip: For added flavour and texture, sprinkle some chopped almonds or chia seeds on top of the almond butter.

5. Date and Nut Stuffed Figs

This recipe offers a delightful mix of textures and flavours, a sophisticated snack on the go. It's also another easy snack to make in 5 minutes with few ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 4 dried figs
• 2 tablespoons almond butter
• 2 Medjool dates, pitted and chopped
• 1 tablespoon chopped almonds

Instructions:

• Make a small slit in each fig and gently open it up.
• In a bowl, combine almond butter, chopped dates, and almonds.
• Stuff the fig with the date and nut mixture.

Tip: For an added touch of luxury, drizzle some date syrup over the stuffed figs.

Tips for Packing Travel Snacks:

• Use airtight containers or reusable snack bags to keep your snacks fresh and prevent spills.
• Pack a variety of snacks to keep things interesting and cater to different cravings.
• Consider portion control by dividing the eatables into individual servings.
• Choose foods that are non-perishable and can withstand temperature changes.
• Don't forget to pack a water bottle to stay hydrated!

With these easy, nutritious snacks at your fingertips, you can conquer travel hunger and stay nourished while on the move. They are not just handy but also incredibly appetising and filling. So, ditch the processed nibbles and embrace the goodness of almonds and cashews for your next adventure. With a little planning, you can enjoy your journey while nourishing your body and mind. Happy travels!