Easy, healthy snacks to power you through your online semester

We’ve all heard and read the endless loop of “This is a semester like no other.” Now that we’ve made it through the first couple of days of classes, we at the Clog are slowly starting to adjust to the pattern of online classes. The main thing we’ve noticed is that we’re trading out that speed walk across campus in between classes for a lap around the house or apartment that somehow always seems to land us in the kitchen — even if we’re not at all hungry. And the times when we are hungry always seem to be exactly when we don’t have enough time to get a snack together. Because of this, we decided to compile this list of ideas for easy and healthy snacks to eat between your online classes.

For when you want something classic

There’s a reason things such as carrots and hummus, apples and peanut butter, cheese and crackers, chips and salsa, and yogurt and granola have become quintessential snack combos: They’re so easy to put together. Even if these classic combos seem almost too intuitive, it’s always good to remind ourselves of them so that we remember that we don’t always need to find the most innovative snack.

For when you need something quick

Maybe you don’t have the time to put two separate things together, and you just need something you can grab a handful of. This is where snacks such as trail mix, dried fruit and protein bars come in. If you really feel like eating but aren’t even hungry, we recommend opting for a piece of fruit or a serving of veggies, something relatively low-calorie that won’t fill you up.

For when you’re feeling creative

Maybe it’s overhyped on social media, and maybe you end up paying way too much for it at trendy cafes, but the power of toast can never be underestimated because there are so many possibilities. Try making some classic combos — avocado toast and peanut butter and banana toast never get old for us. For some less mainstream combos, try brie or another type of cheese with honey or jam. If you’re really feeling adventurous, make your toast on a sweet potato instead. Simply scrub the potato, cut it lengthwise into slices that are 1⁄3 to ¼-inch thick, throw those in the toaster and top them like you would a slice of bread.

For when you have a little more time

Say you have a one-hour break in between your classes. This is when you can let your creativity shine through a little more and put some more effort into your snacks. Try making a smoothie with some unconventional ingredients, toss together a simple salad, try out these frozen Greek yogurt bars or throw together some refreshing spring rolls.

In this unconventional semester, taking the time to properly fuel your body is more important than ever. Hopefully, these simple and healthy snack ideas will help you make the most of your breaks between online classes!

Beatrice Aronson is a deputy blog editor. Contact her at [email protected].