11 Eco-Friendly Snacks That Make Back to School Healthy and Sustainable

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Energy-Boosting Trail Mix

Energy-Boosting Trail Mix is a perfect snack for eco club members who need a quick and nutritious pick-me-up. Packed with a variety of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, this mix is not only energizing but also fully customizable to suit your taste preferences. It’s perfect for hiking, meetings, or anytime you need a boost of energy.

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the nuts and seeds.
2. Add the dried fruits and chocolate chips to the mixture.
3. If desired, sprinkle in cinnamon for extra flavor and toss to combine.
4. Store the trail mix in an airtight container for maximum freshness.
5. Enjoy your energy-boosting trail mix during eco club activities or on-the-go!

Crunchy Roasted Chickpeas

Crunchy Roasted Chickpeas are a delightful and nutritious snack that eco club members can enjoy guilt-free. These crunchy bites are packed with protein and fiber, making them perfect for munching during meetings, hikes, or any outdoor activity. Plus, they can be seasoned to your liking, providing a satisfyingly crunchy alternative to chips.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas, then pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine chickpeas, olive oil, sea salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Spread the chickpeas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, stirring halfway through.
6. Let them cool before enjoying. Store leftovers in an airtight container for the best crunch!

Vegan Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Vegan Banana Oatmeal Cookies are a wholesome and satisfying treat that eco club members will love. These chewy, naturally sweetened cookies are not only easy to make but also packed with fiber and nutrients from oats and bananas. Ideal for snack time during meetings or outdoor activities, they’re a guilt-free indulgence that everyone can enjoy!

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
3. Add in the rolled oats, almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, baking soda, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined.
4. Fold in dark chocolate chips if desired.
5. Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving. Store in an airtight container for freshness!

Homemade Fruit Leather

Homemade Fruit Leather is a delightful, chewy snack that is perfect for eco club members looking for a healthy and fun treat. This easy-to-make recipe uses fresh fruit and just a touch of natural sweetener to create a flavorful, nutrient-rich alternative to store-bought snacks. Ideal for munching during meetings or outdoor adventures, it’s a simple way to enjoy the flavors of seasonal fruits!

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 170°F (75°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a blender, puree the fresh fruit until smooth. Add honey or maple syrup and lemon juice if desired, and blend until combined.
3. Pour the fruit puree onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into an even layer (about 1/8 inch thick).
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 6-8 hours, or until the center is no longer sticky.
5. Once done, let it cool slightly before cutting into strips. Roll up in parchment paper and store in an airtight container. Enjoy your homemade fruit leather as a nutritious snack!

Savory Vegetable Chips

Savory Vegetable Chips are a crunchy, flavorful alternative to traditional potato chips, making for a perfect snack for eco club meetings or outdoor events. Made with a variety of vegetables, these chips are easy to prepare and can be seasoned to your liking, offering a nutrient-packed treat that satisfies your savory cravings without the guilt.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, toss the vegetable slices with olive oil until evenly coated. Season with sea salt and any optional spices you prefer.
3. Arrange the vegetable slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets, avoiding any overlap.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chips are crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
5. Let the chips cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your savory vegetable chips as a crunchy snack!

Guilt-Free Chocolate Avocado Mousse

Guilt-Free Chocolate Avocado Mousse is a delicious and healthy dessert option that’s perfect for eco club meetings or indulgent snacking without the added guilt. Made from ripe avocados, this smooth and creamy mousse provides healthy fats and is sweetened naturally, offering a rich chocolate flavor that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine the ripe avocados, cocoa powder, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and sea salt.
2. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
3. Gradually add the almond milk until the desired consistency is achieved.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary by adding more maple syrup or honey.
5. Transfer to serving bowls and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your guilt-free chocolate avocado mousse!

Nut Butter Energy Bites

Nut Butter Energy Bites are a quick and nutritious snack ideal for busy days or as a post-workout boost. They are packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them a satisfying and energy-boosting treat. These bites are easy to make, requiring no baking, and can be customized with your favorite nut butters and mix-ins. Perfect for sharing at eco club meetings, these energy bites are as delicious as they are health-conscious.

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, nut butter, honey (or maple syrup), chia seeds, ground flaxseed, mini chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and sea salt until well combined.
2. Use your hands to form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Place the energy bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
4. Once firm, transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to a week. Enjoy your Nut Butter Energy Bites!

Zesty Hummus With Fresh Veggies

Zesty Hummus with Fresh Veggies is a vibrant and flavorful dip that serves as a perfect accompaniment for any eco-friendly gathering. Packed with protein and healthy fats, this hummus is not only delicious but also nutritious. Pair it with an array of colorful fresh vegetables for a crunchy, satisfying snack that everyone will love.

Instructions:

1. Rinse and drain the canned chickpeas.
2. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, ground cumin, salt, and water. Blend until smooth.
3. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed, then taste and adjust seasonings if desired.
4. Transfer the hummus to a serving dish and sprinkle with paprika for garnish.
5. Serve with an assortment of fresh veggies such as carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers for dipping. Enjoy your Zesty Hummus!

Sweet Potato Bites

Sweet Potato Bites are a delightful, healthy snack that transforms simple ingredients into a savory treat. These bite-sized morsels are packed with flavor and nutrition, making them a perfect addition to any eco-friendly gathering. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with spices, creating an irresistible snack that everyone will enjoy.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, ground cinnamon, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
4. Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
6. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy your Sweet Potato Bites!

No-Bake Coconut Macaroons

No-Bake Coconut Macaroons are a delicious treat that brings sweetness and crunch without the need for an oven. These delightful little bites are made with simple ingredients, primarily shredded coconut, and are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while still keeping it eco-friendly. Whether served at an eco club gathering or enjoyed as a personal snack, these macaroons will be a hit with everyone.

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. If using, fold in the chopped almonds.
2. Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form small mounds of the coconut mixture and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Refrigerate the macaroons for at least 1 hour to firm up.
4. If desired, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave or double boiler and drizzle over the chilled macaroons.
5. Serve and enjoy your No-Bake Coconut Macaroons!

Edible Garden Vegetable Wraps

Edible Garden Vegetable Wraps are a revitalizing and nutritious option for a snack or light meal, perfect for eco club gatherings. These wraps harness the freshness of garden vegetables, providing a colorful and healthy way to enjoy seasonal produce. Wrapped in a whole grain tortilla or collard greens, they are versatile, customizable, and great for satisfying hunger with wholesome ingredients.

Instructions:

1. Lay out the whole grain tortillas or collard greens on a clean surface.
2. Spread a generous layer of hummus or cream cheese on each wrap.
3. Layer the sliced cucumber, bell pepper, shredded carrots, spinach, avocado, and cherry tomatoes on top.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roll up the wraps tightly, slice in half, and serve as a fresh, eco-friendly snack!