Unless you've been living in a cave, you've probably heard plenty about the Paleo diet. If you've wanted to give this eating style — which focuses on foods consumed by early humans (think: fruits and nuts in lieu of dairy, grains, and refined sugars) — a try but aren't ready to go full-tilt, why not start with some yummy but healthy treats?
Sweet and savory options abound and you can enjoy them without the guilt, sugar rush (and inevitable crash), and bloating that often accompany your more traditional fare. Give these snacks a whirl and see what the fuss is about.
Image via thelazypaleo.com
Sweet Potato Bites With Avocado and Bacon
If you're craving a salty snack, Erin of Well Plated has just the thing: Sweet Potato Bites with Avocado and Bacon. Let the colorful sweet potato, packed with vitamin A, potassium, and antioxidants, stand in place of your usual crostini and prepare to be delighted.
Paleo Carrot Cake Energy Balls
Want to enjoy the amazing taste of carrot cake but none of the sugar and guilt that go with it? Try these Paleo Carrot Cake Energy Balls, created by Chrissa of Physical Kitchness, which are packed with vitamins A and K and antioxidants. Yum!
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Chia Coconut Pudding
Annemarie of Real Food Real Deals shares her recipe for this cool and creamy Chia Coconut Pudding, which is topped with delicious fresh berries. Give those seeds three hours to work their magic and you can enjoy a delicious treat that's good for you.
Baked Pears With Walnuts & Honey
Gina at Skinnytaste serves up these luscious Baked Pears With Walnuts & Honey as a healthy snack or dessert. They make a nice, light ending to any meal, not to mention a simple and pretty presentation.
Blueberry Muffin Energy Balls
Davida, aka The Healthy Maven, created these Blueberry Muffin Energy Balls as a healthy alternative to your traditional blueberry muffins. Dried blueberries and dates give these colorful bites their tasty sweetness.
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Cucumber Tuna Bites
Natalie of Tastes Lovely whips up these Cucumber Tuna Bites, which make a pretty presentation as well as a nice afternoon snack. Topped with dill, they've got tons of flavor but won't leave you feeling too stuffed for dinner.
No-Bake Applesauce Brownies
Three ingredients and five minutes is all you need to whip up these No-Bake Applesauce Brownies, created by Arman of The Big Man's World. Low in fat and high in fiber, this is a snack the whole family can enjoy and moms can feel good about serving.
Paleo Lemon Cookies
These Paleo Lemon Cookies are vegan and gluten-free but still hold together well and taste delicious. Erin of Texanerin sweetens these treats with maple syrup but notes that all you can taste is lemon-y goodness.
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Raspberry Bliss Balls
Emily of The Lazy Paleo created these visually stunning Raspberry Bliss Balls that get their yummy sweetness from maple syrup. Though they're delicious any time, wouldn't be they be perfect for a holiday or Valentine's Day treat?
Raw Fig & Nut Bars
If you love figs, you'll flip for these Raw Fig & Nut Bars created by Joscelyn of Wife Mama Foodie. They're great for breakfast or a snack on the go!
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Apple + Almond Butter Sandwiches
In the mood for something a little more filling than your average snack? Try these adorable little Apple + Almond Butter Sandwiches, created by The Whole Smiths. These make a delicious after-school treat any parent can feel good about.
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3-Ingredient Larabars
If you love the taste of Larabars but don't love paying for individual bars, don't worry, you can now make them at home. Krista of Stayfit Mom shares her deliciously simple 3-Ingredient Larabar recipe so you can keep these on hand at all times.
Wendy's Copycat Frosty
Just because you're pursuing a healthier lifetstyle doesn't mean you can't treat yourself to something fabulous! Rebecca of My Natural Life shared her Wendy's Copycat Frosty recipe, which makes enough for two — if you're kind enough to share!