We live in a culture where it is socially acceptable to eat anytime, practically anywhere. Breakfast, lunch and dinner don’t cut it anymore. Now we need something to munch on when we watch a movie, go on a long car ride, feel bored, are sitting in our cubicle hunched over the computer, feel stressed, the list goes on and on. Snacking isn’t inherently bad. What matters is why we are snacking and what we are snacking on.

Snack foods are what I like to call “convenience foods”. They are easily transportable and don’t require utensils. Unfortunately, this usually translates into processed foods like pretzels, chips, candy and cookies that can be picked up at the shop around the corner, gas station or movie theater. Convenient? Yes. Healthy? Most likely not. Empty calories? Absolutely.

Dehydrated fruits (or vegetables) are a great option next time you’re in the mood for munching.

The store bought kinds often add sugar and preservatives, but dehydrating fruit yourself is great for a healthier snack option, plus it’s so easy! The bananas that we dehydrated were a lot sweeter than a regular banana. My parents recently invested in a food dehydrator and now that I am in NY for Passover, I had to see for myself how the delicious banana chips that my mom has been raving about since her first batch are made… and taste.

Step 1: slice banana (or fruit or vegetable) of choice into even skinny slices – approximately 0.2 – 0.4 cm per slice.

Step 2: spread slices across dehydrator tray in a single layer

Step 3: load tray into dehydrator

Step 4: set dehydrator to necessary time and temperature

Step 5: remove from dehydrator, cool, place into airtight container and enjoy!

Combine dehydrated fruit with your favorite raw nuts to make your own personalized trail mix or keep them separated for a sweet, nutritious and satisfying snack.

Each dehydrator has its own cooking time and temperature requirement for each fruit and vegetable so consult your instruction manual before you get started.