Snacking is probably one of the hardest things to do on a diet. Sure, you can plan healthy lunches and dinners. But for a snack, you need something light, low calorie, health, and most importantly, easy!

Go Nuts

Almonds and other nuts are a great snack to have. They can be stored in room temperature and are filling enough that a small baggy full will satisfy. Almost, in particular, are great for building muscles and fighting food cravings. They are full of protein, health fats, vitamin E, folate, fiber, magnesium and phosphate. Pumpkin and sunflower seeds are also power houses when it comes to the nuts.

When choosing nuts, try to go as raw as possible. Salted nuts and smoked nuts are high in sodium, which leads to spikes in blood pressure. The only bad thing about raw nuts is that they can be very plain. Although plain is more healthy, it is harder to stick to something if it is boring. So try this recipe to mix up your nuts.

Ultimate Trail Mix

What you will need:

• 1 cup of whole, raw almonds.
• 1 cup pecans halves
• 1/3 cups of plain oats
• 2 tbs honey
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1 cup of orange flavored dried cranberries (Craisins)
• 1 cup of dried apricots.

How to make it:

• Preheat the over to 350 degrees F.
• Place the nuts and oats in a bowl and coat lightly with cooking spray.
• Drizzle with 1 tbsp of honey and add the cinnamon, stirring to mix.
• Spread the nuts evenly on a pan and toast for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Once they have cooled, stir in the second tablespoon of honey and mix in the dried fruit.
• Split this into about 1/4 cup servings and place in ziplocks for on the go snacks.

Per Serving:

• 170 calories
• 3g of protein
• 18g of carbs
• 9g of monounsaturated fat (the good kind!)
• 0g of saturated fat (the bad kind!)
• 3g of fiber
• 0mg of sodium.

Of course, this recipe can be mixed up, adding a few other great ingredients. If you have a version of this recipe that you like to use, email me at info@nintemanfitness.com and let me know. I will post updates for everyone to see.

To you health,

~Z

zucchini-frittata

Zucchini, Parmesan and Mint FrittataWhat You Will Need:

• 2 Large Eggs
• 1 small zucchini, julienned
• 2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 mint leaves, torn
• fine sea salt and freshly ground pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

How To Make It:

Heat a toaster oven to 400 degree F. Break the eggs into a mixing bowl and whisk well. Drizzle in a bit of water. Add the zucchini, cheese, mint, salt and pepper. Drizzle the oil into a 5 1/2 inch skillet. Pour in the egg mixture. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until eggs are just set. Let them stand 2-3 minutes before serving. Makes 1 serving.

• 2 cups of broccoli florets
• 14 oz can of low fat coconut milk
• 10 oz can of chunk chicken breast, drained and flaked.
• 12 oz penne, cooked according to the box directions.
• 2 tsp sesame oil
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tbsp Thai seasoning
• 1-2 tsp Thai curry paste
• 3 oz can of peanuts-(you can use half of a 6 oz can)

Here is a recipe for tasty thai in no time:

• Use 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (3-4 pieces) and cut into bite size.
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• 1/2 cups canned light coconut milk
• 1 tbsp canned tomato paste
• 2 tsp vegetable oil
• 3 clove garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 tsp chopped fresh ginger
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt