BY: VITAMIX
After a long day at school, kids often need a quick snack to hold them over until dinner. But instead of reaching for potato chips or sugary cereal, try one of the options below. They’re easy to make and portion out ahead of time. Plus, when you make your own snack foods, you get to control what goes in them – that means you can include more whole foods in your kids’ meals instead of refined sugars and processed ingredients.

Hummus
Our version of this Middle-Eastern dip contains chickpeas, garlic, and raw sesame seeds. It's traditionally served with flatbread, but crackers and tortilla chips are great, too.

Granola Bars
These sweet and crunchy whole-grain bars are a great make-ahead snack that you can take on the go, or pack in kids' lunches.

Peanut Butter
This classic sandwich spread contains just one ingredient--peanuts!

Fruity Avocado Salsa
This exotic blend of fruits and vegetables pairs beautifully with grilled fish to add vibrant color and flavor.

Carrot and Raisin Muffins
Sweet raisins and carrots marry well in this snack-sized bite for a quick breakfast or afternoon tea.

Applesauce
With no preservatives and all-natural ingredients, homemade applesauce just tastes better. A lot better. And you’ll be glad you made the effort, however easy it is.