Snack time can be the most frustrating part of the day for both parents and kids. That sinking feeling comes after what feels like immediately after lunch was served and dinner is so far away. Instead of handing them a bag of chips that is neither filling nor nutritious, make them a tray of these yummy and healthy fruit nachos.
If your child is old enough, they can even assemble this satisfying snack by themselves—after you slice the fruit, of course. Fruit nachos can even be prepared ahead of time by slicing the apples, pears and strawberries earlier in the week. To make this even quicker, you can use chocolate and caramel syrup instead of melting them yourself.
Nutrition Facts
Bartlett pears and Granny Smith apples are great “chips” for this dish because they are tough enough to carry the berries, syrups, and coconut flakes while providing a crisp bite. But they’re also very nutritious for parents and children.
- Granny Smith Apples—we’ve all heard the old adage, “an apple away keeps the doctor away,” which carries great truth. Granny Smith apples, in particular, aid digestion and are good sources of vitamin C, fiber and water.
- Bartlett Pears—another great source of fiber and vitamin C, Bartlett pears add a good dose of vitamin K and may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Ingredients
- 1 Bartlett pear
- 1 Granny Smith apple
- 6-7 strawberries
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¼ cup caramel
- Coconut flakes, shaved
Instructions
- Core and slice the apple and pear thinly to whatever thickness you want. Keep in mind they need to hold the fruit, so it’s unwise to use a mandoline slicer.
- Arrange your slices however you want on a plate. You can overlap and alternate apple and pear slices or randomly lay them out. One layer is best for fruit nachos.
- Chop your strawberries into small, bite-sized pieces. Sprinkle them on top of the sliced fruit.
- Put your chocolate chips and caramel in separate microwave-safe bowls. On power level 5, microwave for 30 seconds until melted, stirring after each period. You may also just use bottle chocolate and caramel syrups.
- Using a spoon, drizzle the chocolate on top of the fruit, then the caramel.
- Toss coconut flakes over the fruit nachos, making sure each slice has some coconut on them.
Change It Up
Fruit nachos are incredibly versatile and customizable. You can use whichever apples you have on hand and top with any berries you like. Here are some ways you can make these fruit nachos your own special creation:
- Anjou pears
- Fuji apples
- Peaches
- Blueberries
- Chopped walnuts
- Miniature marshmallows
- Diced pineapple