Just like the rains keep coming during monsoon, the desire for monsoon snacks never stops. Monsoon not only provides a refreshing environment but also hints that it's a perfect time to incorporate both satisfying as well as nutrient-dense snacks. But do you know what makes monsoon snacks both nutritious and satisfying and more special? It's their key ingredient, and one of the key ingredients that you can incorporate in your monsoon munchies is sunflower seeds.
Video Credit: Food to Live/ YouTube
Sunflower seeds are the powerhouse of nutrients, as they are rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, vitamin B1, magnesium, and copper. Additionally, according to the studies, sunflower seeds are a good source of healthy fats, which may contribute to lowering cholesterol levels. Sunflower seeds are versatile in nature, due to which the nutty flavoured seeds can be seen in many varieties of snacks. Here below are some delectable ways of adding sunflower seeds into monsoon snacks.
5 Ways To Add Sunflower Seeds To Your Monsoon Snacks
Homemade Energy Bars
Homemade energy bars as a monsoon snack are known for their healthy nature and crunchy flavour. They are one of the quick and nourishing energy boosters, perfect for these lethargic days of monsoon. Adding sunflower seeds to them can make the homemade energy bars even more nutritious and delicious.
These homemade energy bars are prepared by assembling oats, sunflower seeds, dry fruits and nuts, and a little bit of honey and then shaped bars after cooling them down. Additionally, these homemade energy bars keep you away from consuming those made with added sugars, artificial flavours, and preservatives on the market and promote a healthy lifestyle.
Also Read: Healthy Eating With Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Shakes And Smoothies
If you consume smoothies and shakes daily in your diet to be healthy, then these sunflower seeds might be a cherry on top thing for you, as these seeds are loaded with antioxidants, which will only add to the detoxifying power of your smoothie. You can add these seeds either crushed or just add them raw by garnishing them on the top of the drink.
Image credit: Freepik
Breads And Cakes
If you are fond of baking, then sunflower seeds can also be another best addition to it. You can either add these seeds to the batter or sprinkle some on top before sliding the dish into the oven. Sunflower seeds include anti-inflammatory properties such as vitamin E, which can help in reducing short term inflammation as well.
Image Credit: Freepik
Salads And Pasta
If you prefer to eat healthy pasta or salad, then sprinkling sunflower seeds will be more beneficial for you. Sunflower seeds will not only give an added crunch, but they will also give a unique nutty flavour to the dish. They are full of healthy fats and won’t add to your cholesterol.
Sunflower Butter
Sunflower butter is one of the best alternatives to regular butter, as high cholesterol and trans fats fantastically replace the healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients. To prepare this delicious and nutritious butter at home, you need roasted sunflower seeds, powdered sugar, and salt.
Image Credit: Freepik
Put all the ingredients in a food processor mixer and grind till it becomes smooth. To give it a creamy texture, you can also add a few drops of sunflower oil. It goes best when spread on bread. However, always store it in an airtight container, which will help it to last easily a month.