When we think about healthy options, breakfast, lunch, and dinner usually come to mind. But what about snacks? Often the most enjoyable part of our daily eating pattern, snacks are key opportunities to balance nutrition with flavor in-between meals.

David Sabgir, M.D., a cardiologist, founder of Walk with a Doc, and spokesperson for Avocados - Love One Today, shares his expertise on heart-healthy snacking. “My mouth is watering just thinking about the question because let’s face it, who doesn’t love snacking?” he tells EatingWell. “Snack time can actually be a great way to incorporate nutrient-dense foods into our day, especially since a recent nationwide survey demonstrated that while 93% of Americans know that good nutrition is important, only half (50%) follow through with healthy eating 4 to 7 days a week. So, finding ways to get in key nutrients throughout the day is important.”

Here are Dr. Sabgir’s top three heart-healthy snacks:

1. Hummus with Vegetables

There’s nothing like a crunchy snack with a creamy dip. A healthy swap for your typical chip-and-dip combo is a high-fiber alternative, like hummus and vegetables.

“Hummus is typically made with chickpeas or other beans or lentils, which contain fiber that can help lower LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol,” Sabgir explains. “Vegetables also contain fiber and beneficial vitamins and minerals.”

Pair a classic hummus recipe with chopped fresh veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or cucumbers for a satisfying bite that supports heart health.

2. Avocado Toast

Avocado toast can be a light breakfast or a healthy snack that keeps you satiated until your next meal. This dish is especially good for your heart, according to Sabgir.

“Avocados contain good fat, including 5 grams of monounsaturated fat per one-third of a medium avocado, which can support heart health by reducing LDL or bad cholesterol levels in your blood,” he says. “Good fats from an avocado paired with fiber from a slice of whole grain bread is a winning combination for heart health.”

Dress up avocado toast with various toppings, from salsa to caprese for added flavor and nutrition.

3. Mixed Nuts with Dark Chocolate

You may be surprised to see chocolate on this list, but dark chocolate paired with a handful of mixed nuts is both delicious and nutritious.

“Nuts, like walnuts or almonds, offer unsaturated fats and dark chocolate contains polyphenols, such as flavanols and catechins,” Sabgir explains. “Consumption of both good unsaturated fats and polyphenols have been associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.”

Polyphenols also provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as shown in recent research published in the journal Nutrition. Additionally, nuts are a good source of plant-based protein, making this snack healthy, filling, and tasty.

Incorporating these nutrient-dense snacks into your daily routine can help you achieve a heart-healthy diet without sacrificing flavor. Dr. Sabgir’s recommendations offer a variety of tasty and satisfying options to keep you energized and your heart in top shape throughout the day.