Weekend Snacks

Mint

Mint has soothing, anesthetic properties and is effective at calming the stomach. Mint tea made simply by steeping the fresh leaves in boiling water is also a good cure for hiccups.

Chiles

Hot chiles do more than add a little spice to your meals—their heat is also great for boosting the metabolism by increasing body temperature, which can help with weight loss.

Pecans

Pecans are packed with plant sterols, which are effective at lowering cholesterol. They also contain high levels of oleic acid, the healthy fat found in avocados and olives.

Almond milk

More than being a substitute for dairy milk, almond and other nut milks are great for getting a little extra protein into your diet. Try to buy organic where possible, because it uses real almonds for sweetness instead of added sugar.

Figs

Originating in Asia, figs have an illustrious history. They are high in natural sugars, which, like dates, make them perfect for adding a healthier dose of sweetness to any dish.