A Dozen Healthy Pantry Pick-Me-Ups

Carrots — Cut them into sticks and dip them in salsa, light salad dressing, yogurt dip or peanut butter.
Bananas — On their own, they're great, but add them to a smoothie, or freeze them for a fun treat, and they're even better.

Celery — They're as versatile as carrots and even lower in calories. And they're crunchy enough to help die-hard chip fans get through the munchies.

Cucumbers — Slice them up and sprinkle lightly with salt for a refreshing snack.

Dried cereal — Mix this up with nuts and dried fruit for a healthy post-gym treat. Just make sure to keep your serving to 1/2 cup.

Nuts — Peanuts, almonds, pecans and other nuts can be tossed with dried cereal and raisins or mixed into a 6-ounce yogurt for a healthy bite.

Orange juice/Other juices — If you have Popsicle molds or even just ice cube trays, pour in the juice and pop it in the freezer. In just a few hours, you'll have a cool and tasty refreshment.

Peanut butter — Slather on an apple or to add a tablespoon or two to a smoothie for a protein-rich treat.

Quesadillas — Use black beans or any other canned beans you have on hand. Add in a sprinkling of cheese, a dollop of salsa and you're in business.

Raisins — sprinkle these high iron and fiber-rich gems into plain yogurt or mix with 1/3 cup of nuts for instant trail mix.

Salsa — makes a great dip for veggies and also can be used on sandwiches as a low fat spread instead of mayo.

Yogurt — If you have plain yogurt in the fridge, you're ready to go. Add some fresh herbs (parsley, dill or thyme will all work), along with a dash of salt and pepper, and you're set.