convenience foods

taste test

Taste Test: Lance Cracker Creations

As a schoolkid, I grew up eating the same thing for lunch every day — a whole wheat deli meat and cheese sandwich with a pear and baby carrots.

As a schoolkid, I grew up eating the same thing for lunch every day — a whole wheat deli meat and cheese sandwich with a pear and baby carrots. Our Michelle Obama-approved pantry had nary a cracker, chip, cookie, or cake in sight. So it was a bit like finding lost treasure every time I managed to get my hands on a four-pack of Lance Captain's Wafers at school. When I recently discovered Lance had released a new line of all-natural snack packs, the 10-year-old in me couldn't resist giving them a try.

Cracker Creations are described as "seasoned crackers with a cream cheese filling" and tout "real cheese, real vegetables, and 5 grams of whole grain per serving." They come in boxes of six individually sealed cracker twin-packs, in two savory flavors. Find out what we thought of them when you read on.

taste test

Taste Test: Kraft Macaroni and Cheese Cheddar Explosion

I eschew processed foods, but with a few glaring exceptions — like anything with processed cheese.

I eschew processed foods, but with a few glaring exceptions — like anything with processed cheese. (Yes, I already realize I can't reconcile sustainably raised seafood and organic, local produce with Velveeta chile con queso. And no, I have no plans to ever change that.) You should've seen the cheesy grin (no pun intended) that spread across our faces when a giant box of Kraft's latest macaroni and cheese arrived. With an active name like Cheddar Explosion, how could one not feel a blast of giddiness? We were excited to test it out, and I even used the occasion as an excuse to make the stovetop original for comparison. What were our ultimate thoughts? Find out when you keep reading.

healthy snacks

Diet Tip: Stock Your Kitchen With Healthy Convenience Foods

If you're watching your waistline, you're probably watching what you eat, too, not to mention exercising regularly as well.

If you're watching your waistline, you're probably watching what you eat, too, not to mention exercising regularly as well. Yay for you and your healthy and possibly new habits, but in truth they can sometimes leave you hungry. Set yourself up for success by loading your cupboards and fridge with healthy convenience foods. Stock your kitchen with ready-to-eat snacks that are healthy, delicious, and packed with fiber. These will satisfy your cravings and keep you feeling full longer, so you're less likely to return to the kitchen for more snacks. Here are some ideas:

  • Fresh fruits like bananas, apples, pears, and berries
  • Real fruit and veggie juices
  • Frozen edamame
  • Tomatoes (slice one and sprinkle a little cheese on top)
  • Hummus and whole grain crackers

What else makes for delicious and quick snacking ideas? To find out read more