5 Surprisingly Delicious And Simple Gluten-Free Snacks
Photo©MeleynaNomura
Approximately 1 in every 133 Americans (around 1% of the population) has celiac disease. Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine, and is triggered by the ingestion of gluten, which is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.
While celiac disease causes the worst symptoms regarding intolerance to gluten, even without it, many people find that they feel better when they avoid eating foods that contain gluten.
As awareness regarding celiac disease and gluten intolerance continues to grow, the demand for gluten-free snacks grows with it. Still, it can be tricky to navigate the world of alternative snacking, as many products still contain a good number of unhealthy ingredients.
Fortunately, there are many products that are gluten-free, healthy, and low-allergen that also represent good value for money and convenience. From sweet treats like strawberry shortcake popcorn, to savory snacks, like protein pea chips, the gluten-free market now caters to just about every taste preference.
Here are five gluten-free (GF) snacks that you can make at home with just a few ingredients.
1. Gluten-Free Granola Bars
Granola bars are a great on-the-go snack option, but many of the store-bought ones often contain gluten, and can also be loaded with sugar and other nasties.
A healthier and cheaper way to enjoy granola bars is to make them at home; they are a tasty, nutritious snack that only requires a few ingredients to make.
Here’s how to make homemade GF granola bars:
- Mix together gluten-free oats, almond butter, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Add in your favorite extras, such as dried fruits or chocolate chips. Stir until well combined.
- Press the mixture into a lined baking tray. Bake for 20-25 minutes at 350 degrees.
- Once cool, cut into desired bar sizes and store in an airtight container
2. Baked Sweet Potato Chips
Potato chips are a classic snack, but they typically aren’t the healthiest by a long way. Many potato chip options are covered in unhealthy ingredients, many of which also contain gluten. Conversely, baked sweet potato chips are a gluten-free, healthier alternative that can be just as tasty.
To make baked sweet potato chips:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees.
- Slice washed, unpeeled sweet potatoes thinly.
- Add them to a bowl and toss them in olive oil and your favorite seasonings (salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder are yummy options.)
- Spread the slices onto a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 10-15 minutes (or until the edges are slightly brown and the chips have turned crispy)
- Cool and serve.
3. Gluten-Free Energy Balls
Energy balls are a popular snack and an ideal option for when you start hitting that afternoon slump. Energy balls should be packed with healthy fats and protein, and are easy to make at home.
To make energy balls:
- Blend some dates in a food processor until they form a sticky paste-like texture.
- Add GF oats, almond butter, and other ingredients such as shredded coconut or chia seeds. Blend until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into balls and store them in the fridge.
4. Greek Yogurt Parfait
Greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein and is a simple, delicious ingredient to add to a variety of snacks, making them even healthier.
Some enjoy Greek yogurt drizzled with a little honey, while others prefer to make more of a full dessert or snack out of it, turning it into a parfait.
Greek yogurt parfait is super easy to make at home; all you need is Greek yogurt, your favorite fruit, and some gluten-free granola.
Simply layer Greek yogurt, fruit, and gluten-free granola into a bowl or jar. Other additions, such as some flakey chocolate or honey can help make it even yummier.
5. Avocado Toast
Avocado toast, or ‘smashed avo on toast,’ has become a popular snack option, and for good reason. Avocados are packed full of healthy fats and fiber, and are a versatile ingredient to use when making up a healthy, filling snack.
To make GF avocado toast, simply toast your favorite GF bread and spread mashed, fresh avocado on top. You can also add extras like feta cheese, sliced tomatoes, or a light sprinkle of chili flakes, or go all out and combine it with scrambled eggs, or smoked salmon.
Initially, it can be disheartening when beginning a gluten-free diet, but thankfully, there are plenty of delicious, simple food options you can enjoy while avoiding gluten altogether. More and more options are becoming available through stores all the time, and there are also plenty of great ideas for snacks and meals that you can try at home. Gluten-free food can be just as delicious!
