Vegan Snacks

Just because I'm vegan now doesn't mean I don't like to snack!  The problem is that most snacks found in the snack aisle are just plain bad for us!  Most snacks are loaded with preservatives, sugars, fats, and lots of other hidden (bad!) ingredients.  But here are a few ideas that aren't so bad and some that are even good!

• Potato chips...yes, I know there are better ways to eat a potato, but once in a while, a chip craving hits.  A potato chip is arguably better than other snacks loaded with sugar, dairy, salts, and fats.  Potato chips, as long as they're plain and only have salt and some type of healthy vegetable oil, are better than a lot of snacks a person could grab!  Besides, there are lots of organic, earth-friendly companies who make potato chips, and they're pretty upfront about what's in their bags!
• Still thinking chips?  How about tortilla chips and salsa or bean dip?  In fact, I'd even consider the dips--homemade, of course--to be healthy!
• Nuts!  Peanuts, cashews, sunflower seeds...there are so many snacks to choose from that balance healthy amounts of plant protein and fats.  Now, you don't want to overdo it with nuts, but they definitely should be part of a vegan's diet. 
• Popcorn.  I'm talking made-at-home popcorn and not the microwavable kind...that kind is full of nasty fats and chemicals.  Enough said.  But if you make your own the old-fashioned way, with a little coconut oil and sea salt, I think this could be considered a decent snack!  Air-popped corn is good too but sometimes a little bland.
• Celery and peanut butter.  Who can resist the crunch?
• Pickles (dill or sweet), olives, and other canned finger foods.  These can be crunchy or tangy and can definitely fill that empty spot!
• Fruit!  Put a bowl of fruit in the middle of the dining room table for a quick snack anytime.  Bananas, oranges, apples, grapes, or any other fruit that grabs your fancy.  Fruit is a natural snack.  Raisins are great too and sometimes have that little extra kick of sugar we sometimes crave!
• Hummus and crackers.

There are so many snacks just waiting for you.  Who needs a snack full of all that nasty junk when just a little planning can result in a list like this?