13 Healthy Snacks to Beat the Afternoon Slump (Flex-Style!)

Healthy snacks are such a critical part of your diet. The afternoon stretch between lunch and dinner is a time when a lot of people say they stray from their good eating habits.

Sometimes, it just seems easier to hit the vending machine at work or stop at a drive-thru than look for something nutritious, let alone cook. But, being prepared is the best way to beat the afternoon slump—and it’s easier to do than you may realize. Armed with some simple recipes and healthy snack ideas, you’ll be able to satisfy your afternoon cravings with a much more nutritious option. So, we’ve rounded up a list of Flex snacks that are easy to make yourself and will give you just the right amount of energy to get through the afternoon.

Experiment with all 13 of these healthy snack recipes:

1. Maple Fig Energy Bites >

These Maple Fig Energy Bites are the perfect pop-in-your-mouth snack. You can use your Nutrisystem Maple Brown Sugar Oatmeal to create them, or your favorite instant oatmeal. Either way… delicious! Get the recipe here >

2. Blueberry Burst Energy Balls >

Energy Balls are a great snack for busy people. And these Blueberry Burst Energy Balls are no exception. They’re delicious and nutritious, and you can whip up a big batch of them at the beginning of the week to carry you through. Get the recipe here >

3. Red, White and Blueberry Smoothie >

This simple, but delicious smoothie combines Vanilla Nutrisystem Shake Mix with strawberries and blueberries for some delicious and nutritious fuel to keep your day going. It only takes a couple of minutes to throw in a blender and mix, making it a great choice when you’re eager to eat. Click here for the full recipe >

4. Vanilla Lime Milkshake >

The refreshing combination of vanilla and lime in this tasty milkshake will feel like a tropical indulgence without the guilt. That’s because it doesn’t have all the added sugar, fat and calories of the traditional variety. In fact, you’ll even sneak a serving of veggies into this snack—though you won’t be able to taste it over the sweetness of the vanilla flavor. Click here for the full recipe >

5. Snickerdoodle Energy Balls >

Who says healthy snacks have to include veggies?! These delicious little gems are as good for your waistline as they are for your taste buds! Get the recipe here >

6. Easy Cheesy Pimento Dip >

If you’re someone that loves to snack on chips and dip, you’re going to want to try this healthy version of cheesy pimento dip that pairs great with whole wheat crackers or a slice of whole wheat bread. Consider your salty snack cravings gone, and your healthy eating habits undisturbed. Click here for the full recipe >

7. Chocolate Cherry Bliss Balls >

There’s a reason these sweet little nuggets are called “Bliss Balls.” They’re like pieces of paradise for your mouth. Whip up a big batch on Sunday and have healthy, delicious snacks on hand all week long. Get the recipe here >

8. Late Night Chicken Taquitos >

Don’t be fooled by their name… you can enjoy these tasty treats any time of day! These Chicken Taquitos are so easy to make, you’ll never buy the greasy, frozen, calorie-packed kind again. Just combining shredded chicken, salsa and cheese—as well as some flavorful chili powder—these taquitos are ready before you know it. Two of them make for amazing, Mexican-themed healthy snacks to hold you over until dinner. Click here for the full recipe >

9. PB&J Quinoa Cups >

These healthy snacks are sweet like a dessert, but have the filling protein and healthy fat of peanut butter to help fuel you up (and keep you going) on those afternoons that seem to stretch on forever. Topped with delicious blackberries—or another plump berry of your choosing—you’ll also fit in a healthy serving of fresh fruit. Click here for the full recipe >

10. 5-Ingredient Banana Nut Muffins >

These muffins are so easy to make that you can whip up a batch of these healthy snacks in hardly any time at all. Five ingredients are all you need (less if you hate raisins)! Bananas, cashews and oats are diet staples and make these moist, puffy delights a great way to pick up your morning or get you through an afternoon slump. They might even help you feel satisfied until dinnertime rolls around. Click here for the full recipe >

11. No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Granola Bars >

You might be shocked to learn just how easy it is to make your own granola bars. In fact, this version doesn’t even require any baking. Just mix up your peanut butter and honey, add in your oats and chocolate chips, then let it set. You’ll be ready to go with a snack to attack your hunger head-on. This delicious treat will give you just enough energy to perk you up, but not so much that you feel heavier for it. Click here for the full recipe >

12. Trail Mix Energy Bites >

Get a kick of energy and flavor with these delicious little nuggets, full of body-boosting nutrition. Get the recipe here >

13. Peanut Butter and Berry Green Smoothie >

Peanut butter is one of those staples you always have on hand because it is both delicious and satisfying: It’s the perfect ingredient for any healthy snacks. With this smoothie recipe, you’ll get that peanut butter flavor mixed with sweet fruit for the perfect combination everyone loves so much. This drink brings all the smooth moves to quell your appetite and excite your palate. Click here for the full recipe >