Prep time complete in 10 minutes or less.
by Ariel Smith and Jessica Toscano Sep 7, 2020
Vegan chefs like Gaz Oakley and Jean-Philippe Cyr make it nearly impossible to not want to test your own #masterchef skills with their variety of colorful dishes. Kudos to you if prep time doesn’t require a slot in your planner, but for those on-the-go moments when you’re in need of a quick bite, here are five easy vegan snacks to satiate you.
1. Avocado Toast
More than 1 million posts on Instagram hashtag this simple combo for more than just its Instaworthy shots. Between its high monounsaturated fat content, proven to help lower the risk of heart disease, and potassium and lutein levels that help lessen inflammation, avocado has consumed more than just social feeds. But really, it just tastes that damn good. Avocado toast (#avotoast for short) can also be adjusted to fit your specific diet. Can’t have gluten? Try gluten-free bread. Need more greens? Add spinach or arugula for a snack packed with vitamin K and calcium to promote bone health.
2. Ants On A Log
*Zero ants are injured in this celery, peanut butter, and raisins combo.* Low on the glycemic index, celery allows your metabolism to run at a more consistent pace, which can aid in weight loss and management. Spread peanut butter into its center, which at 3.5 grams of protein per tablespoon helps curb cravings and appease the appetite, and top with raisins for a nutritious yet delectable bite. Need to lower your sugar intake? Nix the raisins and opt for a natural peanut butter that’s free of added sugar. Want to add zest? Replace with crunchy peanut butter or add nuts of your choice for texture.
3. Tortilla Rolls
Your choice of sweet or savory in under five minutes. The fiber found in whole-grain tortilla wraps slows your body’s absorption of nutrients, making you feel satiated for longer and less likely to crave a treat shortly after. If you have the feels for something sweet, add peanut butter or a vegan hazelnut spread with banana slices. In the mood for savory? Try hummus or a pesto spread with fresh carrots and cabbage for added crunch. Finally, roll your tortilla, cut it in half, and enjoy.
4. Watermelon Pizza
The yummiest way to ensure you meet your daily fruit intake? A personal pizza but with watermelon slices, vegan yogurt, fresh fruit, and nut toppings. Simply slice your watermelon into flat one- to two-inch rounds to serve as your base, spread each round with a vegan yogurt of your choosing, then top with choices like shredded coconut and blueberries. Split your “pizza” into eight triangular slices and devour.
5. Crispy Potato Chips
One ounce of this salty, baked goodness allows you to consume fewer calories, less fat, and less saturated fat than its fried counterpart in under 10 minutes with this microwavable technique. You need just three ingredients: baby potatoes, olive oil, and sea salt. Using a mandolin slicer, cut potatoes into thin slices, then brush them with olive oil and sprinkle them with sea salt. Place them in the microwave for two to three minutes and voila: chips that taste great alone or can be used as a vehicle for sauces and dips.
