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Handful: Simple Ways to Measure Portions and Serving Sizes

Skylar made this little “soap box” with her handprints in preschool.

Box with washing hands poem and green hands that have skylar written on it: Germs can make me sick. And that isn't any fun. But I know a little secret. That can work for anyone. Just wash with soap and water And then rinse the germs away. To keep the germs from coming back, wash several times a day.

It even includes a tiny bar of soap and a little “Germs 101” note attached.

Coastal breezes soap inside of box

One day I know I’ll look back at these handprints and remember just how small four-year-olds really are.

Skylar smiling in pink outfit Even though she’s very tall for her age — in the 100th percentile, just like I was as a kid.

Until then, she gave me the classic Talk to the Hand when I tried to photograph her in bright sunlight.

Skylar putting her hand in front of the camera

I brought my little handful inside and we snacked on some homemade trail mix.

I’d also love to grab a handful of any of these treats when the mood strikes:

  • Vegan GF Peanut Butter Chex Mix, aka “Puppy Chow” — addictively wonderful.
  • Raw Vegan Caramels or Nut Butter–Filled Caramel Bites — just a few ingredients and very easy.
  • Homemade granola (vegan, gluten-free) — a recipe that’s versatile so you’ll never need to buy granola again.
  • Chocolate coconut oil protein popcorn — a sweet-savory snack with a protein boost.
  • No-bake vegan rum cake balls — inspired by a Caribbean treat; a little indulgent and fun.
  • No-bake vanilla cake batter chocolate truffles — creamy, rich, and perfect for sharing.

Vanilla Cake Batter Chocolate Truffles

Question:

Are there any foods in your house that you instinctively grab a handful of every time you pass the kitchen?

The healthiest snack I tend to reach for is edamame. I always keep cooked edamame in a Tupperware in the fridge and find myself grazing on it throughout the day.

Edamame in white bowl

Sugar snap peas are another favorite — unless I get tripped up while buying them. Frozen mango chunks, frozen grapes, or a handful of fresh berries are also go-to handful snacks.

Frozen mango chunks

But let’s be honest — most of the time it’s more tempting to reach for a handful of chocolate chips or something sweet. Right?

No-bake coconut & chocolate chip cookie dough bites are one of my favorite “grab a handful” treats.

Coconut & Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bites

Thanks to everyone who entered the Hoodie & Leggings Giveaway — keep the entries coming!