In our Food Trends series we’ve highlighted the benefits and buzz around protein and even breakfast all-day. For 2013, mini-meals have been hailed the top trend for the year. While it’s not a new phrase, mini-meals or smaller-sized portion options are expected to grow significantly on restaurant menus and the grocery store aisle.
According to the NPD’s Snacking in America 2012 report, one out of every five eating occasion in the U.S. is a snack and more than half of Americans (53 percent) are snacking two or three times a day.
“Our frequent snacking is a result of our hectic lifestyles, need for convenience, increasing desire to eat healthier foods, and simply to enjoy what we eat,” said Darren Seifer, NPD food and beverage industry analyst to PizzaMarketplace.com.
Peanuts and peanut butter fit perfectly within this trend. Not only does a serving of peanuts provide more protein than any nut, but combined with the good fats and fiber, they can help to keep you energized all day.
Check out these recipes that could serve as a great snack or mini-meal:
Double Peanut Bars can give your breakfast a boost or maybe help keep you satisfied until lunch.
These Peanut Butter-Banana Spirals from Delish.com are perfect for kids and adults alike for a mid-afternoon snack.
Peanut Butter and apples are a popular combination at any time of day. This Peanut Butter and Applesauce recipe as well as this apple sandwich mini-meal are quick and easy to prepare.
