Snacks are part pleasure, and part nutrition. Viewing food just as a source of nutrition has never truly been our thing. Even though we wholeheartedly support mindful and intuitive eating, we would like to shift the focus towards the pleasure different foods can bring with every bite. And what better way to share our love for food, than through snacking? Luckily, gluten-free snacks are becoming easier and more accessible these days. So whether you’re gluten intolerant, celiac, or just trying to eat less wheat, it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the snacking train.
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Snacking, at the core of it, is really just eating a small portion of food for the purpose of satisfying your hunger until you’ve had a proper meal. Or as your parents might have said, ‘something to tide you over!’. The idea of snacks are probably as old as humanity. Back in the day, when first men and women went to hunt for their next meal, they really had no idea when and if their endeavors would be successful. They had to resort to bringing some nuts, fruits, or vegetables with them as a safety net, just to get them by. And that’s how snacking was born.
Is snacking good for you?
Nowadays, there are two different points of view when it comes to snacking. Some food experts and dieticians celebrate it by pointing out its many health-related benefits. Firstly, snacking can help maintain steady levels of blood sugar, preventing significant drops between meals. This is extremely important, especially for people with diabetes. Secondly, snacks can be great source of protein and serve an as energy boosters, when you need a little something to get through the day. And thirdly, snacking can have a good influence on your metabolism, if it’s contained to carefully selected, smaller meals.
On the other hand, those opposed to snacks being consumed on regular basis view them as an opening to habits that can lead to overconsumption of calories. Or a starting point for ‘mindless’ eating where you aren’t paying attention to your body. Another point is that frequent snack intake, if it’s high in sugar, can damage your teeth and overall oral health.
Though both points make sense, it’s important to always find middle ground. Snacking can be beneficial and contribute to your well-being, but only when practiced in moderation. Luckily, we have some recipes that will satisfy your appetite for snacks (at least for a while).
And with this collection, they’re 100% gluten-free snacks too! There’s also going to be a couple of vegan recipes, as well as some very indulgent ones.
1. Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies (recipe)
Who would we even be if we didn’t start this list with cookies?! They’re almost like the original American snack, just with a gluten-free twist. What’s great about these chocolate chip lovelies is that they’re vegan, gluten-free and can be prepared and served on your plate within 30 minutes. Absolutely incredible! They pair up really well with tea or coffee, so make sure you have a simmering cup of your favorite drink to dip the cookies in. Team choc chip for the win!
2. Peanut Butter Cookies (recipe)
While we’re on the subject of cookies, we couldn’t help but go to another classic: peanut butter. These crumbly, nutty goodies can be whipped up with just four ingredients. Can you believe it? All the ingredients are super basic – you probably have them in your kitchen at any time. So, no need to go to the store if you’re craving a sweet and gluten-free snack.
3. Vegan Protein Balls (recipe)
These protein balls are an absolute energy booster. The tiny bit of salt accentuates the natural sweetness of the dates, tricking you into thinking you’re eating something potentially loaded with sugar and calories. But do not fret! There aren’t actually any added sugars in this recipe! It’s a perfect vegan, gluten-free snack. If you’re a coffee addict, you should definitely include coffee powder in the ingredient list. It will have a huge impact on the flavor profile of the balls, and will give you that dose of caffeine you crave.
4. Golden Syrup Flapjacks (recipe)
Not to be confused with flapjacks (which is another term for pancakes in the US) we’re actually talking about the sweet oat bars here, which popular in the UK. Not only is this snack versatile – you can add any type of nuts or dried fruit to the mixture – but it’s also super easy to make. And portable! Seriously, you can take these handy little gluten-free snacks everywhere with you. So, when you’re feeling hungry, or you need a little bit of sugar in your bloodstream, tuck into one of these.
5. Caprese Skewers (recipe)
Who said snacks had to be sweet? If you’re looking for a savory snack that doesn’t involve turning on the oven (hello, summer weather!), these fresh caprese skewers are the perfect choice for you. The colorful skewers are a real looker among gluten-free snacks. The red and yellow cherry tomatoes contrast so well with the pearly white baby mozzarella balls. But it’s not only that! With less than 10 ingredients you can have a light and tasty appetizer that’s a true crowd pleaser. Make sure you don’t forget the herbs and seasonings, since they really affect the feel of this dish.
6. Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries (recipe)
On the other hand, we seriously don’t mind bringing in the heat for these amazing sweet potato fries. The oven is worth it…even on a hot summer day! What’s great about roasting the fries in the oven instead of deep-frying them is the difference in the amount of oil you use. Here, you really only need a drizzle of olive oil and you’re all set. Don’t forget the spices, because they make everything more flavorful. And since we’re true fans of spicy food, for even more heat, you can sprinkle a little of chili flakes on top. Yum!
7. Vegetarian Spring Rolls (recipe)
When you’re craving a taste of Asian cuisine, there’s no better snack than spring rolls. They’re full of different vegetables, healthy and delicious! If you’re not following a vegetarian diet, you can also make them with meat or seafood. Spring rolls are light and crispy, and their smaller size makes not just an amazing snack, but also a tasty finger food or canape for parties.
8. Healthy Nachos (recipe)
Do you have a couple of friends coming over in an hour and still no idea what to serve them? Don’t worry! The Mexican culture has given the world the ultimate crowd pleaser – crunchy nachos. Nachos are a convenient food for parties or small gatherings. Firstly because they’re so easy to assemble. Secondly, they’re absolutely gorgeous and tasty. And thirdly, since they’re served as a communal dish, you can definitely bond over them with your friends and acquaintances. Nobody says no to nachos as a naturally gluten-free snack!
9. Onion Bhajis (recipe)
This popular Indian dish is a good snacking option if you don’t mind a little bit of spiciness. The crunchy exterior is balanced out by the soft, oniony interior. And once you’ve paired it with the right condiments…well, every bite of this traditional snack becomes a flavorful tasting experience. Onion bhajis can be enjoyed with friends, as a party staple, or as a comfort food when you need a little bit of self-indulgence.
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10. Cheese and Onion Flapjacks (recipe)
Even though flapjacks (the UK kind) are known as a sweet dish, these crunchy bars can also be savory. The prep for this recipe is so quick and easy, and you can play around with the ingredients. Instead of cashews, you can add any type of nuts you prefer. Not a fan of mixed seeds? You can just add raw pumpkin seeds. And really any type of hard cheese. These savory flapjacks are a great snack when you’re in a hurry – they’re easily stored and can be enjoyed on the go. Just an amazing balance of taste and texture!
Find More Gluten-Free Snacks
So that’s a wrap! We hope this list we’ve put together gave you a glimpse of the immense possibilities when it comes to gluten-free snacks. Whether you’re pro-snacking or have doubts about it, it’s important to remember that consuming food with moderation and listening to you body’s signs of fullness is always the way to go. Food should always taste good and make you feel even better.
If you’re interested in discovering more gluten-free snacks (or other recipes), you’re really just one click away. Enjoy!
