If you crave salty snacks but you are avoiding salt, the solution is near at hand. You can find or make all of your traditional salty favorites in sodium-free versions. These snacks can be enjoyed as is or seasoned with herbs and spices to give them flavor.
Popcorn
When you think of popcorn, you probably imagine it glistening with butter and grainy with salt. Popcorn can be a healthful snack, but instead of seasoning it with salt or adding butter or oil to top it, season the popcorn with herbs and spices. Cayenne pepper will give the popcorn a kick, whereas oregano and basil will lend it an Italian flair. Alternately, choose a salt-free taco seasoning or a dry salad dressing mix. These options lend flavor to popcorn without the salt or fat.
Pretzels
Many pretzel manufacturers make pretzels without salt. Most well-stocked grocery stores carry unsalted pretzels and they are available in many varieties, including honey wheat. If you don't enjoy plain pretzels, try seasoning them with a salt substitute or eat them with a healthful and flavorful dip. Low-sodium hummus, tahini, or low-fat and no-sodium prepared chip dips are all good options. If you prefer a more homemade touch, make your own spinach dip, low-fat cream cheese and horseradish dip or even a light dip with low-fat sour cream and dill.
Nuts
Dry-roasted nuts are a good source of healthful fats, and they have a mellow, rich flavor of their own that doesn't need salt. Enjoy them plain or roast them in a light coating of fat-free and salt-free Italian dressing. Alternately, opt for dry seasonings but spray the peanuts with a light coating of olive oil cooking spray to help the seasonings stick. Then, add dried jalapeno powder, powdered ginger, five spice powder or any other herbs or spices that strike your fancy and roast the peanuts yourself. With all that flavor, you won't even notice that they aren't salted.
Chips
Crunchy fried potato chips are a salt-lover's dream. You can sacrifice the salt and fat while still retaining the crunchy texture and flavor that you love. Make your own chips by slicing a potato in thin, one-eighth-inch slices with a mandoline and bake them until they are browned and crispy. Baked chips are just as crunchy and satisfying as the fried versions. These chips match well with a smoky barbecue seasoning, garlic powder or onion powder. Potatoes are the perfect blank slate for virtually any seasoning that you desire, so don't be afraid to experiment with your favorite salt-free seasonings.
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