My 5 New Favorite Snacks
Somehow, someway I have gotten over the sugar bug. It has disappeared and no longer sits on my shoulder a couple of times a day trying to tempt me. It was not an intentional thing. I did not go on a Sugar Detox or any sort of "diet" plan. It is something I have just noticed that has occurred and I'm here to say I hope I keep it this way!I preface this by saying that it is NOT that I do not still like a sweet. Boy, you know I adore a piece of key lime pie. It is not that I am saying that I will not indulge in sweet treats. That would be just crazy. However, my body doesn't seem to crave it or have the need or desire for that sugar buzz. While this is here I am loving it! I feel so good without thinking about what little piece of dark chocolate I can sneak or feeling the bloat or crash after having that chocolate chip cookie.Another thing I am loving are the different snacks that I find myself enjoying.Sweet Gherkins. Goodness, where have these been all my life? Well, right in my fridge being completely ignored, is where. They have the perfect crunch, sweetness and kick. Do not ignore these any longer!An Orange. What a simple pleasure. I've always liked an orange, but they have a new place in my palate now. Super juicy, sweet and perfect on a hot day.Shelled Roasted Sunflower Seeds. I've always enjoyed these sprinkled on top of a salad, cottage cheese and yogurt. Still do. However, I also love to grab a palm full for the crunchiness and the fullness (and of course the health benefits of nuts and seeds!) A little goes a long way to satisfy that snack time munch.Berries. Maybe it is this time of year, but the blueberries, strawberries and raspberries are like explosions in the mouth! They are so full of yummy sweetness that I can't imagine wanting anything even sweeter! I know that is the result of getting all of the fake and artificial sugar out of the way and relying on the real stuff.Cucumber Onion Salad. This is such a wonderful concoction. If you are not from the South you may have no idea that this is a staple at any Southern summer lunch, supper, get together, barbecue, you name it. Growing up there was always a glass bowl of this simple salad in our refrigerator. I made a batch recently and it's even better now.I say don't let this summer pass you by without slicing and soaking some cucumbers and onions!Here's the recipe:Cucumber Onion Salad
- 2 cucumbers, peeled and sliced
- half medium Vidalia onion, sliced thinly and halved
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- ½ cup water
- Place cucumber slices into large bowl along with onion slices.
- In 2-cup measuring cup, add vinegar, sugar, garlic, and water. Mix well with a fork and pour over cucumber and onions. Cover tightly and keep in the refrigerator at least an hour before serving.
I hope some or all of these sound just as yummy to you! Whether you are indeed tying to eliminate the sugar from you diet or just looking for some refreshingly good snacks, I think these are great additions!What are your favorite snacks? Sugary or Savory? Do you get the sugar bug? Did you grow up eating Cucumber Onion Salad as well?Enjoy Your Day!