Okay, let's get snacking!
Hey there, fellow food lovers! You know, sometimes the day just calls for a little nibble, doesn't it? But if you're like me and gluten-free, finding those satisfying snack options can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt. That's why I've become a bit of a snacking ninja, always on the lookout for something delicious that doesn't leave me feeling blah. Today, I'm beyond excited to share one of my absolute favorite ways to tackle that afternoon slump (or, let's be honest, anytime craving): a collection of quick, easy, and oh-so-tasty gluten-free snack recipes!
Now, these aren't your boring, plain-Jane snacks. We're talking flavor explosions, textures that sing, and the type of thing that makes you go back for "just one more" (and then maybe another!). Growing up, my grandma always had a little something homemade and delicious tucked away – be it a cookie, a spiced nut mix, or a quick batch of her famous 'everything' crackers (which, I've since figured out how to make gluten-free!). It's that feeling of comfort and simple joy that I've tried to infuse into these recipes. These are the kind of snacks you can whip up on a whim for yourself, for the kids, or even for a casual get-together. So grab your aprons, and let's get started!
The following recipes should be quick, easy, adaptable to whatever you may have on hand, and of course, completely gluten-free.. Let's dive in!

Recipe 1: Cheesy Garlic Herb Roasted Chickpeas
These little gems are seriously addictive. Crunchy, savory, and packed with flavor, you might just find yourself making them every week (I know I do!).
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or a plant-based alternative)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Thoroughly dry the rinsed chickpeas with a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial for achieving maximum crunchiness!
- In a medium bowl, toss the chickpeas with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, ensuring every chickpea is coated.
- Spread the chickpeas in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are crisp, shaking the pan halfway through for even cooking.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (or cheese alternative) then return to the oven for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly (they will get crunchier as they cool). Enjoy immediately!
Tips & Tricks:
- Spice it Up: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or a dash of smoked paprika for a more complex flavor profile.
- Herb Swaps: If you don't have dried oregano or basil, use other dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even a combination of Italian seasoning.
- Nutritional Boost: For an extra dose of goodness, sprinkle on some nutritional yeast for a cheesy, vitamin-rich addition.
- Storage: These roasted chickpeas are best eaten the day they are made. If you store them, the chickpeas will soften but they are still delicious.
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Recipe 2: Speedy Chocolate Avocado Pudding
Okay, I know what you're thinking – avocado in pudding? Trust me on this one! This is rich, decadent, and you'd never guess it's loaded with healthy fats. It's also incredibly quick to assemble.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe avocado
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2-4 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey or agave, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional Toppings: chocolate chips, gluten-free granola, fresh berries, chopped nuts
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to a food processor or blender. A high-speed blender makes this particularly smooth and creamy.
- Blend until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as necessary.
- Taste and adjust sweetness, adding more maple syrup or other sweetener as needed.
- Spoon into small serving bowls or glasses.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (this helps the flavors meld).
- Before serving add your desired toppings.
Tips & Tricks:
- Make it Extra Rich: Add a tablespoon of nut butter (like almond butter or peanut butter) for added richness and protein.
- Chocolate Intensity: Use Dutch-processed cocoa for a more intense chocolate flavor.
- Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon, espresso powder, or a bit of peppermint extract for a unique twist.
- Meal Prep: This pudding can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
Recipe 3: Mini Fruit and Nut Energy Bites
These little bites are the perfect on-the-go snack when you need a quick burst of energy. They're no-bake and super customizable, too!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats (make sure they're certified gluten-free)
- ½ cup nut butter (peanut, almond, or sunflower seed butter)
- ¼ cup honey or agave nectar
- ¼ cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots, or dates)
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
- 2 tablespoons Chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, nut butter, honey (or agave nectar), dried fruit, nuts, chia seeds, cinnamon and salt.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined. The mixture will be a little sticky. This is where a good silicone spatula comes in handy for easy mixing.
- Using your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. If the mixture is too sticky, wet your hands slightly with cold water.
- Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Tips & Tricks:
- Nut Free Option: If you are allergic to nuts, replace the nut butter with sunflower seed butter and omit the chopped nuts. Instead, use things like pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds.
- Add Some Crunch: Toss in some puffed rice cereal or gluten-free crisp cereal for a bit more texture.
- Flavor Boost: Add ingredients of you own preferences like shredded coconut, cocoa powder, or a squeeze of lemon or orange.
- Freezing: These bites can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just let them thaw in the fridge for a few minutes before enjoying.
Recipe Card:
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Cheesy Garlic Herb Roasted Chickpeas
Ingredients: 1 (15-oz) can chickpeas, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp each dried oregano & basil, ¼ tsp each salt & pepper, ¼ cup grated Parmesan
Instructions: Preheat oven to 400F. Toss drained chickpeas with oil and spices. Bake on a sheet for 20-25 mins until crisp. Sprinkle on cheese (or alt) and bake for 2-3 mins. Cool and enjoy.
Prep time: 5 mins. Cook time: 25-30 mins.
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Speedy Chocolate Avocado Pudding
Ingredients: 1 ripe avocado, ¼ cup cocoa, ¼ cup milk (dairy-free options work), 2-4 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tsp vanilla, pinch of salt, optional toppings
Instructions: Blend all ingredients until smooth. Adjust sweetness. Chill for 30 mins. Add toppings before serving.
Prep time: 5 mins. Chill time: 30 mins.
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Mini Fruit and Nut Energy Bites
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free), ½ cup nut butter, ¼ cup honey or agave, ¼ cup dried fruit, ¼ cup chopped nuts, 2 tbsp chia seeds, 1 tsp cinnamon, pinch of salt.
Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix. Roll into 1-inch balls. Chill for at least 30 mins. Store in the fridge.
Prep time: 15 mins. Chill time: 30 mins
And there you have it, my friends! Three delicious, gluten-free snack recipes that will keep you satisfied between meals, anytime of the day. Remember, cooking and sharing delicious food is all about enjoyment and flexibility. Don't be afraid to play around with the ingredients and make them your own. Let me know which recipe you loved the best – I can't wait to hear from you! Happy snacking!
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