Cheap Snacks

ITEM POINTS values per serving (based on generic items) PURPOSE COST*
1 pound bag of whole carrots POINTS value of 1 per cup Peel and cut into sticks. Terrific for mindless munching and for pairing up with sour cream and onion dip. $.99
1/2 of a 16-ounce container fat-free sour cream POINTS value of 1 per 1/4 cup Combine with onion soup mix. A few tablespoons with pretzels, raw carrots or string beans can satisfy the need for comfort food. $.75 ($1.50 per container)
1/2 of 1 envelope of onion soup mix POINTS value of 0 per tablespoon Use this to whip up a flavorful, creamy dip. $.25 ($.99 for two envelopes)
1 pound of string beans POINTS value of 0 per cup Wash and cut into 2-inch pieces. Great on their own (zero POINTS) or with dip. $.99
1/2 pound of potatoes POINTS value of 1 1/2 per 1/4 pound plain potatoes The ultimate comfort food: homemade French fries! Thinly slice potatoes, coat with cooking spray and sprinkle with salt. Bake at 450°F until browned and slightly crisp, about 20 minutes. $.30
1/4 of a 15-ounce box of fat-free Saltine crackers POINTS value of 2 per 6 crackers Perfect for making mid-afternoon, pick-me-up peanut butter sandwiches. $.35 ($1.39 per box)
1/8 of a 1-pound jar of creamy reduced-fat peanut butter POINTS value of 1 per 1/2 tablespoon Sometimes a little protein and fat can stave off hunger longer than just carbs. Spread a thin layer onto crackers. $.30 ($2.39 per jar)
1 pint of strawberries POINTS value of 1 for 1-1½ cups Delicious on their own, strawberries are a sweets-lover's bargain in the spring and summer months. Stock up on them in the warmer months and freeze them. $2.99
1/6 of a 16-ounce package of pretzels POINTS value of 1 1/2 per 3/4 ounce A little bit of salty crunch can wipe out most carbohydrate cravings. $.45 ($1.19 per bag)
1 lollipop POINTS value of 1 per pop Chocolate that lingers in your mouth for much longer than a few chews; perfect for that soaring sweet tooth. $.16($2.29 per bag)
1/4 of a 64-ounce container orange juice POINTS value of 1 per 1/2 cup Freeze in small paper cups (insert a popsicle stick) or popsicle molds for thirst-quenching, homemade ice pops. $.75 ($2.99 per 1/2 gallon)
TOTAL COST $8.28