6 Cheap Snacks that are Healthy, Fast, and Even Gluten-Free

Eating healthy isn't always the cheapest way to munch, but it can be affordable if you look for the right foods. Snack foods make up a fairly large percentage of the average family's food bill, so choosing healthy snacks that are also affordable - and possibly even more affordable than the unnatural snacks you buy now - is important every time you go shopping. Here are six of my favorite snacks that even my gluten-intolerant two-year-old loves.

Raisins

Nobody likes raisins at first, but if you make yourself munch them a few times, they will grow on you. Full of healthy plant-based carbs and naturally fat-free, a small handful of raisins are way better at curbing cravings than potato chips. And of course, they are way better for you. If you simply can't eat raisins, dried cranberries are just as good for you, and much tastier, but they do cost a little more. We also absolutely love dried mangoes, but eat them in moderation - they tend to be even higher in sugar than raisins.

Peanuts

Unsalted peanuts are best, but even salted ones provide lots of nutritional benefits. The ingredients list on most brands will only include peanuts, soybean or canola oil, and salt, if any, so you don't have to worry about artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. Not to mention, they are loaded with protein and the healthy fats that everyone needs. Other types of nuts, such as almonds, brazil nuts, and pine nuts, are even healthier, but tend to be more costly.

Oats

With lots of fiber and no trans fat, both quick-cooking and old-fashioned oats are a must-have for any household. Make them with milk instead of water for a calcium boost, and sweeten with brown sugar and a touch of honey or maple syrup. You can also make your own granola with them, and sprinkle it on top of cereal, yogurt, or the occasional bowl of ice cream.

Frozen Fruit

When it comes to fruit, frozen strawberries are about the cheapest way to go, but we like to vary our selection and get blueberries, blackberries, peaches, and a tropical mix from time to time. A huge bag of generic frozen fruit only costs about $0.18 to $0.25 per ounce, and you don't have to worry about it going bad. We also like to keep a few cans of fruit in our pantry, packed in juice instead of syrup, and mix the juice with a little water for the kids to drink.

Unsweetened Applesauce

When you buy unsweetened applesauce, you can control the type and amount of sugar that goes into each serving. While many sweetened applesauces are free of artificial sweeteners and preservatives, they simply contain more sugar than you might want to eat (or give your children) in one sitting. Unsweetened applesauce can also serve dual purposes - in addition to being a great mid-afternoon snack with a sprinkling of brown sugar and cinnamon, it can be used as a substitute for sugar in many recipes along with honey and vanilla extract.

Plain Yogurt

Speaking of vanilla extract, just a drop or two is all you need to make plain yogurt taste way better - and plain yogurt almost always costs less than flavored. Try it with honey, granola, peach or mango slices, or berries. A great source of calcium and protein, like most dairy products, the most natural option is regular rather than lowfat or nonfat. Search for a yogurt with no artificial colors or fat substitutes. Greek yogurt is known to be the healthiest choice, but plain yogurt is more affordable and still offers lots of health benefits compared to many snack foods.