Hearts were breaking all over the internet after my crackdown on Veggie Straws a couple weeks ago (sorry, not sorry). Since then, I’ve decided I should probably do you all a solid and provide an alternative option that’s just as snack-alicious but far more nutritious.
And that you can actually get at a regular grocery store.
Mediterranean Snacks Baked Lentil Chips are by far my favorite snack chip/cracker for those times when I just don’t feel like eating another carrot stick. Not only do they come in 7 tasty flavors (my fave is Cracked Pepper), they actually fit the bill for a balance snack. Here’s why:
The main ingredients include a flour derived from lentils/garbanzo beans and potato FIBER (as opposed to just the starch as seen in Veggie Straws). These ingredients contribute to the whopping 3 grams of fiber and 4 grams of protein you’ll get in a serving of these babies. I say whopping because it’s not often you’ll get either from chips– meaning you might actually stay fuller for a little longer!
The serving is a generous 20 chips coming in at 120 calories- 35 of those coming from fat. They’re higher in fat than those Baked Lays but the good news is it’s unsaturated fat (plus I bet you didn’t know beans have healthy fat in them). That and you’re still winning in the protein and fiber department. And if you’re eating these with a healthy dip (like the Spicy Oil-Free Red Pepper Hummus in the Guide to Nutritious Noshing my clients receive), you probably would not need to eat the entire serving to feel satisfied.
Not to mention a snack with fiber + protein + good fat in the right balance means you’re not running for the fridge every ten minutes between lunch and dinner.
Best part, I have been able to spot these at just about any major grocery store chain. I’ve even snagged a bag in the gluten-free section at a well-stocked Wal-Mart.
Before I start getting nutritionist hate mail, let me say that these are still not a replacement for good ol’ fruits and veggies. But for those times when you’re looking for a savory, crunchy fix, these are a decent option.
Want to give them a try? They are a little pricey but that will definitely make you mindful of those portion sizes! Speaking of portion sizes, make sure you portion these out in a separate bowl before you dig in- otherwise you may find yourself eating the entire bag (they’re that good).
Have you tried Lentil Chips before? If not, what do you think about them as a snack alternative?
And what do you think about the 10 high protein vegan snacks?