Spicy, hot foods have long been associated with many health benefits and are an important part of cooking in many cultures. Research has looked into the relationship between different types of spicy food and heart health, healthy blood pressure, weight loss and the prevention of certain types of cancer. Chilies, peppers, ginger, wasabi, and other spicy foods can add both flavor and health benefits to your favorite snacks and meals. Many spicy foods contain phytonutrients, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals essential for well-being.

Here are some of our favorite healthy snacks with added spicy flavor.

Wasabi Peas

Wasabi peas might make tears come to your eyes from the wasabi but the peas have enough protein to help you feel fuller longer!

Hot Sauce Popcorn

Make air-popped popcorn and try sprinkling a little hot sauce, like Tabasco, over the popcorn. It will add a bit of spice and the fiber in the popcorn will fill you up and help aid in digestion!

Spicy Guacamole

You can make it as hot as you would like by adding more chilies to your guacamole recipe. Smaller chilies tend to be hotter than bigger ones. The protein, omega fatty acids, vitamin K, potassium and folate will add quite a bit of nutritious value to your diet!

Paprika Kale Chips

If you make your own or buy at the store, kale chips are crunchy and tasty in many different flavors. Try kale chips with paprika on them. The spicy flavor you won’t be able to resist and kale will add lots of vitamin K, A, and C to your snack.

Chili Edamame

Edamame is a nutritious filling snack because of the amount of high-quality protein and fiber found in the beans. Tossing the cooked edamame in chili pepper seasoning or sprinkling with hot sauce can leave your mouth on fire but leave you happy with your healthy snack choices.

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