Metabolism-Boosting Snacks

August 27, 2019
These snack recipes can help boost your metabolism so you burn more calories. They're all a little spicy and deliver capsaicin, a compound that actually helps increase your metabolism. Dip low-calorie vegetables into a salsa or spicy dip, munch chile-spiced popcorn or crunch on apple slices with cheese and peppers for a little extra heat.
Start Slideshow

1 of 13

Apple & Cheddar with Jalapeño Slices

View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Apples and Cheddar are a classic pairing, especially in Vermont, and in this healthy snack recipe, the jalapeño adds a zesty zing. If spicy isn't your thing, try this snack with a dash of honey instead.

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 13

Chile-Lime Peanuts

View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

These spicy nuts were inspired by ones sold by street vendors across Mexico. If you can only find salted peanuts, omit the added salt. Add the maximum amount of cayenne pepper if you want an extra hit of spice.

3 of 13

Lime & Parmesan Popcorn

View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Skip the bag of microwaved popcorn and satisfy a snack craving by making your own flavored popcorn. In this healthy popcorn recipe, we use Parmesan cheese, lime zest and a hint of chili powder, but feel free to use your favorite spices. For the best flavor, opt for olive oil cooking spray to help the toppings stick to the popcorn.

Advertisement

4 of 13

EatingWell's Pimiento Cheese

View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

This Southern favorite is a simple blend of Cheddar, mayonnaise and pimientos. If you like spicy foods, add a few shakes of hot sauce. Serve with crackers for an appetizer or as a sandwich spread for lunch!

5 of 13

Roasted Eggplant & Feta Dip

View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

This roasted eggplant and feta dip gets a kick from a fresh chile pepper and cayenne pepper. There are countless variations on this classic Greek dip. Out-of-season eggplant or eggplant that has been heavily watered often has an abundance of seeds, which make the vegetable bitter. Be sure to taste the dip before you serve it; if it's a touch bitter, you can remedy that with a little sugar. Serve with toasted pita crisps or as a sandwich spread.

6 of 13

Quick Guacamole

View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Mash a few avocados, stir in some fresh salsa and a squeeze of lemon juice and you've made the easiest healthy guacamole. Guacamole will turn brown if allowed to sit and is best made shortly before serving. Serve with your favorite tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos, enchiladas or burritos.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 13

Spiced Spanish Almonds

View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Salty, sweet and laced with smoke--the perfect kind of almond for a party. If any remain the next day, savor them over a salad topped with sliced ripe pears and shaved Manchego cheese.

8 of 13

Lima Bean Spread with Cumin & Herbs

View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Humble limas are transformed into a sensational Mediterranean spread that is vibrant with a mix of fresh herbs and spices. You can substitute frozen edamame beans for the limas in Step 1; cook according to package directions.

9 of 13

Spiced Hot Chocolate

View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

This spiced hot chocolate warms you from within.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 13

Spicy Energy Mix

View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Sweet mangos and dates mixed with crunchy pumpkin seeds get a dose of heat from a prepared spice rub.

11 of 13

Watermelon Salsa

View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Sweet, savory and crunchy salsa accompanies grilled pork or chicken rather nicely. Try it with tortilla chips as a refreshing alternative to a tomato salsa.

12 of 13

Chili Pecans

View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

A medley of warm spices tempered with a touch of brown sugar is a great match for rich, nutritious pecans. They make a perfect nibble with a drink before dinner or afterward with a cup of espresso.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

13 of 13

Kimchi Deviled Eggs

View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

For fun twist, this healthy deviled egg recipe is flavored with Korean chile paste and kimchi. To keep calories in check, we swapped out half the full-fat mayo for nonfat Greek yogurt.

Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Up Next