We don’t know about you, but whenever we hit that midway point between breakfast and lunch, we say goodbye to our good health intentions and hello to the sugar laden snacks. We search for energy kicks and pick-me-ups in bags of crisps, packets of biscuits and bars of chocolate.
So what’s a mum to do?
Well, while carbs seem like the obvious solution to hunger and energy problems, protein is actually a much better option. It helps you feel full, and gives you a stable energy boost that doesn’t affect your blood sugar levels.
We’re big fans of clean protein, which is why Greene Farm is our go-to brand for cooked meat. Their entire range is gluten-free. Their chicken, turkey and beef products are low-in-fat, naturally processed and contain no additives.
So, to help you change your eating habits for the better, we’ve compiled a list of 10 quick healthy snacks that are packed full of protein.
1. Easy peasy breakfast pizza
Take one pitta pocket. This will be your base, so don’t slice it open. On top, sprinkle on some cheese, chopped peppers and Greene Farm Torn Roast Chicken.
Next, place a layer of spinach leaves on top, leaving a space in the centre. In this space, break open an egg. Now, bake the pitta in the oven for 5 minutes or so, or at least until the pitta is crispy and the egg is cooked just how you like it.
2. Yummy yoghurt bowl
In a bowl, combine 2-3 scoops of Greek Yoghurt, 1-2 tablespoons of your favourite nut butter (almond, tahini, organic peanut) and some sliced fruit such as grapes and melon. You can also pour on a little agave honey if you wish. To finish, add some crunch by sprinkling in some almond flakes and sesame seeds.
3. Tasty turkey salad
Take one packet of Greene Farm Turkey Breast, one cup of chopped lettuce or spinach, ½ cup of sliced cherry tomatoes, ½ cup of finely chopped cucumber, 1-2 diced peppers, ½ cup of chopped celery, Feta cheese cubes, and some walnuts or sesame seeds if you wish.
For added taste, you can add some chopped red onion, hummus, or Dijon mustard. If you like a finely-chopped creamy salad mix, then just briefly blend the ingredients together using the pulse setting.
4. Beef & chickpea pockets
We know it’s not healthy to eat on-the-run, but every mum has had those crazy days where their only options are to either eat on-the-go or not eat at all!
If you are hungry but in a mad rush, slice open a wholemeal pitta pocket, spread some English mustard or horseradish sauce inside, and then fill it with slices of Greene Farm Roast Topside Beef before adding some parmesan cheese, chickpeas, and chopped peppers.
If you don’t want to use beef, then try some of the other tasty concoctions from Greene Farm, such as Garlic and Rosemary Chicken Breast, or Moroccan Spiced Chicken Breast.
5. 30-second quesadilla
To make a tasty quesadilla, just spread a little salsa or tomato paste on a tortilla, add some grated cheese and Greene Farm Torn Roast Chicken Breast, fold and microwave for 30 seconds.
6. Nom nom omelette cups
First you grease the bottom of each muffin tin mould before lining them with spinach leaves, followed by chopped cherry tomatoes, onions, parmesan, bell peppers, etc.
You have two options on how you want to include the eggs. You can either break an egg into each mould, or, whisk together 6 eggs, add seasoning, and then pour the mix into the individual moulds.
Bake at 350°C degrees for approximately 20 minutes.
7. Overnight oats
Just combine ½ cup of milk (or yoghurt) with ½ cup of oats and ½ a mashed banana. Add some nuts and berries if you wish. Sprinkle in a little cinnamon before sealing the lot in a jar or Tupperware container, and allowing it to set overnight in the fridge.
8. Moroccan chicken wrap
For this quick protein power lunch, fill a wholemeal wrap with Greene Farm Moroccan Chicken, grated parmesan cheese, and spinach/lettuce. Another great meat filling is Green Farm’s Cajun Chicken Breast.
9. Delicious dinner pizza
To make 1 pitta pizza, all you need is 1 pitta bread (or 1 small tortilla), Greene Farm Roast Chicken Breast, or if you and your family prefer something spicier, Greene Farm Cajun Chicken Breast, some chopped mushrooms, spinach leaves, grated cheese, and a tablespoon of pureed or crushed tomatoes.
First spread the tomatoes on the pita/tortilla base, and then add the remainder of your toppings before baking for approximately 10 minutes at 350 degrees.
10. Hummus
Hummus is a tasty dip to have with raw carrot sticks, celery or, just spread on some wholemeal toast. It can be surprisingly filling too.
