Top 10 Fast Faves

When we hear the term Fast Food we immediately think of drive thru's, unhealthy food or junk food. So I'm sharing with you my Top 10 Fast Faves. These are my go-to "Fast Foods" that do not require a drive thru or a guilty conscious afterward.

Number 1: Bananas

I love bananas. They have always been one of my favorite fruits. Contrary to what you may have heard bananas are not bad for you and they are not going to make you fat. In fact consuming bananas on a daily basis is s great way to boost your metabolism. Bananas are a fast way to help with your hunger and they are great to take with you when you're on the go. 

Here is a great article about my favorite fruit if you are wondering what other benefits they can provide. http://www.livestrong.com/article/505406-top-ten-health-benefits-of-bananas/

Number 2: Larabars 

I discovered Larabars after I became Vegan and I wish I knew about them sooner. They are delicious and filling. I always try to carry one in my purse so if hunger hits me and there are no Vegan options
available I am prepared. They have so many incredible flavors. Some of our faves are the Blueberry 

Muffin and Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip which are pictured above. We also love the Coconut Chocolate Chip, Peanut Butter Cookie and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Flavors. Honestly I don't think I've tried a Larabar I didn't like. I also love that they are Non-GMO and made of 100% Real Food. If you can't find them in your local supermarket (Check by the Power Bars) they do have a website. They do offer other products as well, but not all are Vegan so be sure to read the ingredients. 

http://www.larabar.com/

Number 3: Nuts

Nuts are a great go to when you're on the run or looking for something to hold you over between meals. Almonds, Walnuts, Cashews and Peanuts are my favorites. Try separating out some portions into containers so in a hurry you can just grab and go. 

Number 4: Juice Smoothies

I love these Naked  100% Juice Smoothies. They are great for busy days and they taste delicious. I love to make smoothies at home, but when you don't have the time to make it yourself these can be a great alternative. The Green Machine is my favorite from the Naked brand. I have also enjoyed the Bolthouse Farms Green Goodness juice, but I wish they were Non-GMO. I try to avoid GMO's whenever possible.

Number 5: Trail Mix 

I've always liked trail mix. It's great for snacking or when you need something to hold you over in between meals. Just make sure that if there is chocolate in the trail mix that it does not contain milk. I've never seen a trail mix that contains honey, but I would also check for that. It's easy to find Vegan trail mix. Definitely something I try to keep on hand. 

Number 6: Granola

Granola is great because you can easily take it with you on the go. It's delicious dried or with a non dairy milk and fresh fruit for a quick and easy breakfast or snack in between meals. Most granola contains honey and some contain milk. Don't get frustrated just read the labels. A few of the KIND brand granolas are free of honey and dairy. Like I said just read the labels. I'm so used to reading labels that I practically power read them now and It is become second nature to me.

Number 7: Nut Butter & Jelly Sandwich

You might think of nut butter and jelly and think of when you were five years old, but they are super simple, great on the go and filling. I love peanut butter and almond butter. I can eat it by the spoon. Well I should say I do eat it by the spoon. No shame in my love for nut butters. Jelly can be full of added sugar so try to find one that is sweetened naturally by fruit. My husband likes the Polaner All Fruit for that reason. It's only sweetened with natural fruit juice and yay it's Non-GMO. Combine those on whole grain bread and you've got a fast and healthy way to cure your hunger. Again read the labels. You want to avoid the breads with honey and dairy. Also aim for the breads with the least amount of ingredients. A good rule is if you can't pronounce it don't eat it.

Number 8: Annie's Vegan Shells

I recently tried these Vegan Shells and Cream Sauce. They were really good! Processed foods aren't the best, but in a pinch it's not an awful alternative to making your own from scratch. At least it's organic. 

Number 9: Amy's Organics 

Amy's Organics has a ton of Vegan options. They are great for when you don't have a lot of time and they have quality organic ingredients you can feel good about eating. Of course I don't recommend living off any processed foods even if they are organic, but in moderation they are great. One of my favorites is the Roasted Vegetable Pizza. It's great on its own or with a pinch of nutritional yeast and garlic powder. 

Number 10: Gardein Products

Gardein has been the game changer for us. We have recreated so many non vegan dishes with these products. I love the saying "Anything you can eat I can eat Vegan". It's so true. Crispy tenders are delicious by themselves with some dipping sauces, in salads, wraps, pasta dishes and more. The fish less fillets make "fish" tacos that are to die for! They cook up fast and are made with Non-GMO ingredients. My husband and I have tried a ton of meat free products since becoming Vegan, but none compare to Gardein. We also love their beefless sliders, crispy sliders and just about anything they make. If you haven't tried them already you should run to the store now!!! 

I hope you find this blog helpful. Remember fast food can be whatever you make it. No drive thru's required! If you have some suggestions or tips you would like to share please please comment below!!