Is anyone else getting as sick of matzo as I am? We’re nearing the end of Passover and I’m desperate for variety. Since I enjoyed my protein plate  so much, I’m trying again. Here is my latest Passover snack plate, perfect for a light lunch or an afternoon nibble.

I tried to assemble a well-balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and veggies. It includes:

* diced turkey

* carrot sticks

* sugar snap peas

* almonds

* matzo

I served hummus on the side for dunking. Salad dressing would also be a good choice. It’s not particularly filling, but it is tasty and quick. I really like “bistro box” style snacks. I ate this at home, but it would work well in a packed lunch, too.

 

Do you like snack plates?

 

I woke up early this morning craving a Starbucks Protein Plate like you wouldn’t believe! Since that’s not really an option during the holiday, I decided to make a homemade version that’s perfect for Passover.

Starbucks version:

* Hard-Boiled egg

*Apple slices

*Bagel with peanut butter

* Grapes

* Cheese

Passover Version:

* 2 Hard-Boiled eggs (1 is never filling enough)

* Cheese

* Strawberries

* Apple slices

* Matzo with peanut butter

As you can see, I substituted matzo for the bagel and strawberries for the grapes. (I like grapes, but the berries were cheaper and better quality at my store.) I wasn’t sure if this would be as good as Starbucks, but I actually liked it better! I got more food for less money, and I was able to keep Passover. I do prefer bagels to matzo, but I’m willing to make a substitution once a year. These would be a great item to make ahead, maybe 2-3 at once, for quick breakfasts or snacks on the go.

 

Have you ever make Starbucks knockoffs at home? (This was my first, but I’m planning more.)

 

Happy Passover! Do you need some topping ideas to jazz up matzo? Here are 45 options to make it tastier:

1. Butter/Margarine

2. Hummus

3. Nutella

4. Peanut Butter

5. Dips  (Spinach artichoke is great with matzo)

6. Salsa

7. Honey and apple slices

8. Sweet or Savory Fondue

9. Cheese  (sliced, shredded, cottage, cream cheese)

10. Chocolate

11. Jelly or Jam

12. Hard-Boiled egg slices

13. Mashed banana and chopped nuts (sounds weird, but is good)

14. Marshmallow fluff

15. Maple Syrup

16. Garlic butter & Parsley

17. Smoked Salmon

18. Icing and Sprinkles

19. Olives, feta cheese, tomato slice

20. Pesto

21. Open-faced Peanut butter & jelly

22. Whipped Cream

23. Brie, cherries, and pecans

24. Chutney

25. Strawberry & Kiwi slices

26. Gouda and figs

27. Tuna salad with pickles

28. Guacamole

29. Olive oil and vinegar

30. Cranberry sauce

31. Sautéed mushrooms

32. Deli meat

33. Sliced hot dogs, ketchup & mustard  (kid approved)

34. Tapenade

35. Cheddar Cheese and relish

36. Rocky Road style (chocolate icing, mini marshmallow, chopped nuts)

37. Lettuce leaf & salad dressing

38. Sardines

39. Almond butter & chopped dates

40. Mango slices mixed with brown sugar

41. Marinated tofu and alfalfa sprouts

42. Melted caramel and coconut

43. Sliced onions, peppers & provolone cheese

44. Curry paste

45. Vanilla yogurt and peach slices

 

Not all of these topping are strictly Kosher for Passover; only you can decide if it’s ok for your family.

 

What’s your favorite way to eat matzo?

When compared, the savings of packing a lunch daily vs. buying one is astronomical! It’s especially true for those who make multiple lunches.

Most people understand this, yet the majority still buy. I think that’s due to a combination of factors—short on time, boredom/redundancy of the food, easier to drive-thru, etc.

A good lunch require planning. By packing at night, you save time during the morning rush. By varying the contents, you liven up the meals. The best lunches provide a combination of protein, produce, and whole grains. Protein is what makes us feel full. A lunch without it will have no staying power. Produce and whole grains provide the necessary vitamins and fiber. Try building your next lunch with one item from each of the 3 categories:

*Protein*

Hard-boiled egg

Peanut butter

Slice of deli meat

Hummus

Cheese

Yogurt

Guacamole

Nuts

Tofu

Beans

Tuna Fish

*Fruit/Veggie*

Carrot or celery sticks

Cherry tomatoes

Pepper strips

Grapes

Lettuce leaves (used as a wrap instead of bread)

Applesauce

Olives

Any whole fruit (apple, orange, banana)

Dried fruit (mini boxes of raisins are perfect)

Salad

*Whole Grains*

Granola Bar

Bread (slices, bagel, pita)

Popcorn

Crackers

Cereal cups

Rice

 

Some days you could try packing sandwiches or salad. Soup is great during the colder months. Other times, try a bunch of snack-y stuff to munch on. If all else fails, hit up Subway (kidding)!

 

Do you pack lunches?