Snack Break With Melanie Hadida
Melanie in her element, surrounded by fresh herbs
Welcome to my new series called Snack Break where I interview interesting people about their snacking habits. I get questions from my clients all the time wanting more interesting and easy options for healthy snacks and I thought I would reach out to people I admire and see what they say. A snack is a personal experience, a moment in your day to tide you over, satisfy and spark joy.
Today we’re speaking to Melanie Hadida, cook and nutritionist living and working in the UK. Originally from Montreal QC, Melanie has taken her love of Ayurveda, travel, herbs and her Morrocan and Jewish heritage to create her amazing spice blends and marinated feta company Spice and Green. She also hosts workshops and retreats in Leeds, UK where she currently resides.
If you follow Melanie online, you know she is expecting twins shortly and always cooking up something spectacular to snack on and prep for postpartum. I knew I had to ask her all about how she whips up the best snacks! She shares some of her favorite tricks and treats below!
What is your favorite time of day for a snack?
I probably snack the most in the afternoon, in the hours (and minutes!) leading up to dinner time. But I’m currently pregnant so I’m actually never not snacking.
Are you a sweet or salty snacker?
Generally I’m a salty snacker. There’s just so much more variety and range with salty snacks. But the perfect snack is both sweet and salty like dark chocolate covered pretzels.
Are there any specific components you need in a snack?
I think both salt & crunch are definitely important. I prefer a snack that doesn’t mess up my fingers, but the best ones do, don’t they?
Do you have a desert island snack?
It would probably be white cheddar popcorn. Like a really really elevated version of Smart Food.
What snacks do you always have on hand?
Popcorn, dates, cheese.
Look at this incredible dip! Are you freaking kidding me., whole chunks of dreamy roasted garlic. YES PLEASE. photo by Melanie Hadida
Is there a snack you’ve been loving a lot lately?
I’m currently super into dried apricots.
One of my fave “pre dinner” snacks is a quick crudite plate with a quick yogurt dip.
For an easy yogurt simply combine:
- A few heaped spoonfuls of full fat Greek yogurt
- The juice from one lemon
- A splash of good EVOO
- A spoon of local honey
- Chopped up fresh herbs (whatever is on hand)
- Salt & Pepper
Just serve with chopped fresh veggies and some nice bread, easy!
If you would like to learn more about Melanie, you can find more here:
https://www.melaniehadidanutrition.com
and on Instagram @melaniehadida