How to Build the Perfect Snack Plate

I love that I can mix and match proteins, healthy fats, carbs, and seasonal produce — it’s a simple formula that leaves me full and satisfied but not groggy. I always joke on my calls that it’s like making myself a mini charcuterie board right in the middle of the workday.

Why I love snack plates

• Endless variety: You can change them up weekly so they never feel boring.

• Balance: I always aim for a mix of protein, fiber, healthy fats, and something fresh.

• Low waste: It’s the best way to use up what’s already on hand — half a cucumber, leftover chicken, the last of a cheese block.

• Mood: Some days I want veggies, other days I want something cozy like a toasted baguette and cheese. A snack plate lets me listen to my cravings!

My formula

When in doubt, pick one (or more) from each category:

• Protein: chicken breast, deli turkey, prosciutto, hard-boiled eggs, smoked salmon, canned tuna, sardines, roasted chickpeas

• Carbs / fiber: crackers, good bread, roasted sweet potatoes or squash, seasonal fruit

• Healthy fats: cheese(!!!), nuts, avocado, olives, pesto

• Fresh crunch: cucumbers, roasted veggies, bell peppers, apple slices, radishes

Following this formula makes it easy to create a plate that feels like a complete meal rather than random snacking.

This Week’s Lineup

Here’s my combo for this week:

• Kerrygold cheese (I love their butter so I tried their cheese— omg my fave snack!)

• Roasted brussels (leftover from dinner last night. Roasted with maple, garlic and olive oil)

• Apple slices

• Prosciutto

• Deli-shaved meat (so much fresher than prepackaged and tastes better IMO!)

• Crackers or a slice of good bread

• Pistachios

Of course you can put together any combo of what you have on hand but if you’re feeling really stuck, here are a few no-fail combinations: mediterranean (hummus, pita wedges, cucumber, olives, feta, grapes), classic (turkey roll-ups, sharp cheddar, crackers, apple slices, baby carrots), light + bright (smoked salmon, cucumber, avocado, rice cakes, a handful of fresh berries)

And typically, I’ll add a sweet element to round it out — chocolate, dates with maple butter (recipe coming soon!), or some honeycomb. It elevates your plate from everyday lunch to a little ritual you’ll actually look forward to! Leave your go-to combos in the comments as I’m always open to new ideas!! xx Ash