Snack Attack

August 6, 2024

By Gretchen Westdal Centers 

As fall gradually approaches, the calendar fills up with everything from football games to harvest. Having ready-made snacks is a great way to keep energy levels up. We’ve also included a few snack recipes that are easy to prepare for spur-of-the-moment events that bring family and friends together.

Beef Jerky Trail Mix | Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner

It might have been originally created to be eaten amongst the timber while trekking through the great outdoors, but trail mix is so versatile it can enjoyed sitting on a couch or amongst the pines. There are countless versions, some so sweet you might mistake it for dessert, to ones that are a little more subtle and filling, like this Beef Jerky Trail Mix that provides healthy fats, protein, and fiber. This recipe calls for a base of store-bought — or homemade if you are feeling adventurous — beef jerky that’s surrounded by filling almonds, sunflower seeds and tangy cranberries. Add this to your weekly meal prep to ensure you have an easy, filling snack that will energize you for whatever activity is next. Find the recipe here.

Photo credit: Iowa Beef Industry Council

Mexican Turkey Sweet Potato Nachos | National Turkey Federation

One of the best things about nachos, besides the fact they are delicious and easy to make, is their versatility. Nachos, especially these Mexican Turkey Sweet Potato Nachos, can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer or even a meal. Not only are you getting a healthy serving from each of the major food groups, but you also get to enjoy personalizing this dish to your specific likes. This recipe serves up a delicious blend of spices that can be adjusted to how spicy you like your food. Ground turkey is rich in protein, low in fat and contains a host of vitamins and minerals that can boost and sustain energy longer than a bag of potato chips. Top it off with your favorite cheese blend and other accoutrements, and you’ll be serving up something special! Find the recipe here.

Photo credit: National Turkey Federation

Chocolate Soybean Energy Bites | The Soyfoods Council

There’s an old saying, “fail to plan, plan to fail.” That might be a touch dramatic when talking about snacks, but there’s some truth to it. With a little prep work, these Chocolate Soybean Energy Bites are a healthy, delectable after-school or on-the-go snack. The nourishing, satisfying ingredients are plentiful enough to boost the mood of a hangry toddler, a moody teenager or a stressed parent. Combining hearty oats, chocolate chips, black soybeans, soy nut butter and honey gives you an easy and satiating bite-sized snack that’s perfect for any time of day.  You could also encourage the kids to join in making these to boost kitchen skills and build up their food knowledge. Find the recipe here.

Photo credit: United Soybean Board

Italian Sliders | Iowa Pork Producers

Fall brings back beloved activities like football and tailgating. If you’re looking for a snack or an appetizer that’s easy to throw together and can feed a whole team or those cheering the team on, look no further than these Italian Sliders. Crowd-favorite Hawaiian rolls hold together a zippy assortment of salami, pepperoni and pepperoncini. At the same time, the smooth provolone, red peppers and herbal seasoning balance the sandwich. Best yet, everything is layered together and put into the oven to produce a warm and satisfying sandwich that’s portable and popular. Find the recipe here.

Photo credit: Iowa Pork Producers

Frozen Yogurt Fruit Ice Pops | Undeniably Dairy

The beauty of this snack is it can be enjoyed at any time of the day. This sweet snack could be had mid-morning if breakfast wasn’t quite enough, shared after school among friends as homework is being done, or in the quiet of the evening as you unwind after dinner. It’s the perfect mix of creamy, decadent yogurt with a cheerful burst of berries to satiate the sweetest sweet tooth. You can even mix it up by swapping the berries for your favorite frozen fruit or even slipping in a few chocolate chips! Find the recipe here.
 Photo credit: Undeniably Dairy

Veggie Egg Pops | Iowa Egg Council

A mid-afternoon slump can take down even the most productive of people. That’s why having a healthy, easy snack on hand to keep the momentum going is key. These Veggie Egg Pops have everything you need to tackle that to-do list. Protein-rich and omega-3 fatty acid eggs will give your brain the boost it needs, while the veggies offer fiber and added vitamins. If the kiddos need a snack, mix it up by offering a dip platter to dip the eggs in for some added flavor or spice. Fill little containers with savory and salty seasonings or dips so kids can experiment with flavors while getting a healthy snack. Find the recipe here.

Photo credit: Iowa Egg Council