Did you know that in the early 1900s peanut butter was considered a delicacy and was generally only enjoyed by the upper classes? Today, the peanut butter and jelly sandwich (PB&J) is a classic lunchbox staple. In fact, it is estimated that the average American will have consumed over 2,000 PB&Js before the age of 20.
Unfortunately, this sandwich is sometimes thought of as a ho-hum lunch option. Celebrate National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day April 2 with these fun and healthy recipes that will be sure to bring peanut butter back to its decadent status.
Peanut Butter, Strawberry and Banana Quesadillas via Texanerin Baking
Directions: On the stove, preheat a skillet or pan that is large enough for your tortilla. Spread peanut butter on one side of a tortilla (feel free to opt for a gluten free or whole grain tortilla) and add a layer of sliced bananas and strawberries. Spread strawberry jam on the side of another tortilla and place (jam-side down) on top of the peanut butter tortilla. Cook in the pan until the bottom is crisp, flip and cook the other side. Slice into wedges and enjoy!
PB & J Overnight Oats via Delish Knowledge
Directions: In a mixer or using a bowl and hand mixer, whip a banana, 1 cup almond milk, 4 tbsp. peanut butter and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. Add in 1 ¼ cup rolled oats and whip until combined. Move the mixture into a container and place in the fridge overnight. In a separate bowl, whisk 1/8 cup chia seeds into ½ cup Concord grape juice and set into the fridge. In the morning, divide the peanut butter mixture into jars, top with the grape chia mixture and enjoy! Note: This recipe makes two large servings or four smaller ones; it will keep for at least two-three days in the fridge.
Peanut Butter & Jelly “Sushi” Rolls via People’s Great Ideas
Directions: Trim two slices of bread to form two long rectangles. (If you’re using thick-cut bread, you may need to flatten the slices with a rolling pin.) Spread one side of the bread with a thin layer of peanut butter, followed by a thin layer of jelly. Starting at one end, roll the bread until you’ve formed a coil. Cut the roll into bite-size pieces.
Other healthy alternatives to spruce up the standard PB&J include swapping out the jelly for fresh berries or swapping out the peanut butter for almond butter or sesame butter. These are just a few suggestions to add some (healthy) creativity to the standard PB&J. Enjoy!
Have anything to add? We’d love to hear from you. Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below!
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