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IIE DIGITAL DESK : Contrary to popular belief, flavorful and tangy snacks do not have to be unhealthy. Many people assume that food packed with taste is automatically harmful to health and that healthy options are always bland. Dietitians, however, say otherwise. They highlight several simple and delicious snack options that can be both satisfying to the palate and supportive of a balanced diet, even for those trying to lose weight.

Creating these snacks does not require elaborate recipes or complicated ingredients. In fact, even slight modifications can introduce interesting flavors without compromising nutrition. For instance, instead of using powdered dry chilies, finely chop fresh green chilies. Fresh chilies are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and when consumed in moderation, they can aid digestion and boost immunity without harming the body.

Healthy twist on popular street foods, make your own sweet chutneys at home. For example, in the case of bhelpuri, you can substitute the typical chutney with raisins, a practice already common in some parts of India. The combination of tangy and sweet flavors makes the snack irresistibly appealing.

These snacks, though rooted in regional cuisines—Gujarat, Kolkata, and rural areas—can be easily prepared at home. Imagine steaming soft dhokla and topping it with finely chopped green chili and tamarind syrup; this simple combination excites the taste buds while keeping the snack nutritious. Instead of refined sugar, use jaggery for the syrup to enhance health benefits.

Other simple options include poha with flattened rice, peanuts, curry leaves, and a few basic spices, all of which can be prepared in an air fryer with minimal or no oil. Even roasted chickpeas retain their protein and fiber content and become a wholesome, crunchy snack. Toss them with cucumber, onion, tomato, chopped green chili, coriander leaves, a pinch of salt, and lemon juice for an instant, nutritious snack that is as satisfying as it is healthy.

The key takeaway is that enjoying flavorful food does not mean sacrificing health. The nutritional value of a snack depends largely on the quality and cleanliness of its ingredients. When prepared thoughtfully, even indulgent-tasting foods can be wholesome and safe for the body, proving that balance between taste and health is achievable in every meal and snack.