Back-to-School Snack Idea #2- The Snack Plate

I’ve noticed an increase in “grab & go” snack boxes or snacking plates in grocery stores and cafes. A snack plate is a great canvas for a delicious and balanced afternoon snack or light meal. Store bought ones can be expensive. Consider making your own and packing the snacks in a reusable bento container. You can also pack snacks individually and arrange them on a plate. Choose your favorite carbohydrate base (crackers, pita chips, baguette slices, mini pita or naan bread), pack one or two proteins/fats (cheese cubes or slices, cured meats, turkey, nuts, tuna salad, tofu, jerky), add your favorite fruits or veggies (grapes, baby carrots, and mini bell peppers are fun), and finally add a sweet or savory component for flavor (fig or fruit jams, pickles, olives, granola bites, chocolate, M&Ms, dried fruit).

Here are a couple of fun ideas to try!!

The “Southern” Snack Plate- Pimento cheese, pickled vegetables, sourdough crackers, and peach slices.

The “Cheese-Lovers” Snack Plate- Two or three kinds of cheese, grapes, wheat crackers, apricot jam

The “Greek” Snack Plate- Mini pita bread, single serve hummus, sliced cucumber and peppers, feta cheese, and olives