Organic olive oil is considered as one of the best cooking mediums because of the various health benefits it has to offer. Organic olive oil contains healthy fats, anti-oxidants and Vitamin E all of which promote the overall health and protect the body against various diseases and infections, Organic olive oil lowers cholesterol, lower blood pressure protects against heart diseases and cancers of many types and is a great immunity booster. Organic olive oil can easily be incorporated in any meal because it is light and can be digested easily. In addition, the use of organic olive oil adds a unique flavor to whatever is being eaten or cooked.

Snacks are often eaten between meals to curb the hunger at odd hours and most people eat quick foods that are unhealthy. In addition, most snacks use butter which contains a lot of saturated fats. Snacks that one eats must also be healthy and promote the overall health. Organic olive oil can well replace butter that is used in preparing various snacks. Organic olive oil is a healthy substitute for butter and adding to whatever is being cooked enhances the flavor of the dish making it even more delicious. Below are a few healthy snacks one can try with organic olive oil.

• Oatmeal cutlets: Oatmeal is a super food which is known to promote the overall health and when oatmeal cutlets are made with organic olive oil instead of with the normal oil or butter, this makes the snack an even healthier one. Oatmeal contains a lot of fibers that help to lower the blood cholesterol and improve digestion. Oatmeal cutlets can contain other healthy ingredients as well like vegetables, garlic, ginger, spices and condiments that add to the health benefits the snack has to offer. To prepare oatmeal cutlets, boil oatmeal in ample water and let it stand till it gets to room temperature. Boil 3-4 potatoes and once boiled, peel the skin and mash them properly. Now add the various spices and condiments like mint, garlic, ginger, salt, cumin to the mashed potatoes and mix well. Once done, add carrots and oatmeal to the potato mixture. Divide the mixture into 12-14 portions and shape them in flat discs. In a wide non-stick pan, spread organic olive oil and place the cutlets and roast then till they are golden brown and look cooked from both sides.

• Roasted chickpeas: Chickpeas contain a lot of fibers and also several other nutrients and compounds that make it very healthy for consumption. It not only aids digestion but also helps one to stay satiated for long and thus helps in weight loss. To make roasted chickpeas, preheat the oven to 175 degrees C. Now, in a bowl whisk together organic olive oil, cumin, salt, pepper, bell peppers and chickpeas. Spread in a single layer in a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven tossing occasionally till the chickpeas are brown and roasted.

• Hummus: Hummus is made using chickpeas and when prepared with organic olive oil, it serves as one of the healthiest snacks for anyone. To prepare hummus, combine boiled chickpeas, cumin, garlic, salt and organic olive oil in a blender and blend on a slow speed till the desired consistency is received. Hummus can then be used as a dip with wafers, chips or any snack that one is eating. Hummus can even be consumed as it is because of its great taste.
• Mango salsa: Mango with its rich nutrients is one of the best fruits that can be consumed by people of all ages. Mango is not only a satiating fruit but also offers several other health benefits. Mango salsa has ingredients like vinegar and lemon juice that have several health benefiting properties. Mango salsa is a quick and a tasty snack that can be consumed at any time of the day. To prepare mango salsa, peel one mango and chop it finely. In a bowl, add mango, minced red bell pepper, minced jalapeno, green onion, salt and ground black pepper. Add organic olive oil, vinegar and lemon juice to add flavor to the salsa. Mix thoroughly. Before serving, mango salsa must be refrigerated for at least half an hour so that all the flavors can set in the salsa.

For more information on organic olive oil and its benefits, click here.