9 Candy-free Ideas for Valentine’s Day

Think outside the heart-shaped box this Valentine’s Day and serve snacks that are as nutritious as they are festive! Check out these party treat choices that offer low-fat dairy, whole grains, fruits and vegetables — many of which can even be assembled in the classroom.

• Celebrate with fruits that are red, the unofficial color of Valentine’s Day:
• apples, grape tomatoes, red grapes and red peppers.
• Create a “pink drink” by blending strawberries and low-fat milk for a protein-packed, naturally sweet drink.
• Serve freshly cut vegetables, whole-grain pita chips or crackers and low-fat cheese cubes to dip into tomato salsa.
• Create “Banana Split Love Boats.” Split a peeled banana down the middle and top with low-fat vanilla Greek yogurt and sliced heartshaped fruit.