11 {Healthy} Snacks You Can Keep in Your Desk Drawer.
I have so many clients who come to me saying "I need good snack ideas," but they usually get a little annoyed when I point out that a piece of fruit, a handful of almonds, or some veggies and hummus are simple and healthy snack options. So, I decided to do a roundup of my favorite non-veggie, non-fruit snacks to keep on hand. They're some of the most wholesome foods I've come across in my search for healthy pre-packed snacks, and they're extended shelf-life (well, compared to fruits and vegetables) makes them easy to keep on hand at work or home.
A bonus? They are all naturally gluten and dairy free.
1. KIND Bars or Lara Bars
Typically lower in overall sugar, and processed sugar, these bars are made from simple ingredients, and are way tastier than some of the other pasty crap you get out there. Keep a couple on hand for that easy and light snack during the awkward time between the gym and dinner.
2. Biena Foods or Saffron Road Roasted Chickpea Snacks
High protein, with a satisfying crunch. Use these as a standalone snack, or spice up a salad by using these as a bread-free crouton.
3. Dang Coconut Crisps
Delicious, crispy, and coconut-ty. Of course packed with the healthy fats found in coconut. These do have a small amount of added sugar, so I recommend keeping a few smaller bags on hand, versus one large bag, to prevent over-indulging mindlessly in front of the computer!
4. Justin’s Nut Butter Packets
I know these were designed to be spread on an apple or banana, but truth be told, I just rip them open and suck them down. They're the perfect treat to hold you over between lunch and dinner, or fuel you up for a workout.
5. Go NUTS Sprouted Nut Mixes
This company does a great job of packing tons of flavor into these easy-to-digest sprouted nuts. With both sweet and salty varieties, they make for a satisfying indulgence.
6. KRAVE Jerkey
This ain't no slim jim. This jerkey is free of nitrates and artificial flavors, and a perfect high-protein snack. Skip the processed bars and shakes, and stick to these for your extra protein needs!
7. Inka Plantain Chips (+ Smashed Avocado and Lime)
My podcast partner, Allison Nichols introduced me to this delicious snack. The perfect balance between salty and tangy.
8. Mary’s Gone Crackers (+ Hummus)
One of the least-processed crackers I've found, plus they are quite tasty! Enjoy them with some hummus.
9. Alive & Radiant Kale Chips
Forget to eat your greens today? Grab a bag of Kale Chips! These are dehydrated pieces of kale, so the kale is still technically raw, keeping all of it's nutrients intact. Their Southwest Ranch flavor is made with a spice blend reminiscent of Cool Ranch Doritos.
10. Boom Chicka Pop Popcorn
The name is enough to sell you! A popcorn that touts few ingredients, this is the next best thing to popping it yourself. The only downside? Popcorn is a bit of a messy snack to keep at work.
11. Nature's All Freeze Dried Fruits
Just like the kale chips, these guys are dehydrated. Most don't have any added sugar, so it's just as great as eating fruit, without risking it going moldy in your desk drawer.
You can grab most of these items at Thrive Market (online grocery store) or Whole Foods Market. Follow my "Brands I Love" Pinterest page if you're looking to navigate the choppy waters that is the grocery isle!
What types of healthy snacks do you typically keep in your desk drawer?
Let me know in the comments below.