Make time for snacking and turn ordinary moments into an elevated snack experience. This post is brought to you in partnership with Hillshire Snacking.
Becoming a mom changes everything. I heard all the advice while I was expecting—the knowing smiles, the tiny secrets friends felt obliged to pass along. Some of it stuck, some of it didn’t. The familiar refrain to “sleep when the baby sleeps” sounded lovely, but in practice those quiet moments became my window to catch up on the thousand small tasks that come with running a household. Still, one piece of advice I finally took to heart was to make time for myself: to take care of and pamper myself, even in small ways. For me, that often means making time for a thoughtful snack.
A few weeks ago I traveled back to New York to help kick off #SnackWeek and celebrate the launch of Hillshire Snacking—pre-packaged snacks that feature elevated flavor combinations of meats and cheeses, plus all-natural grilled chicken bites paired with distinctive sauces. The morning included a lively “Meat Up” conversation with fellow snack lovers Claire Thomas from Kitchy Kitchen and Chef Dale Talde, where we talked about favorite ways to snack and why products like Small Plates and Grilled Chicken Bites are perfect for busy days.
That afternoon we joined Andy Cohen for a festive launch party celebrating the Small Plates and Grilled Chicken Bites. Mixologist Julie Reiner created custom cocktails to pair with each product, and every station was beautifully styled to highlight a specific flavor pairing. I loved seeing how thoughtful combinations of savory bites and bright, refreshing drinks can make a simple snack feel like an event.
My station showcased one of my favorite Small Plates: Hot Calabrese with Natural Gouda Cheese and toasted rounds. I’m drawn to bold, spicy flavors, and the Calabrese salame delivers the exact savory kick I crave. Julie Reiner paired it with a Venetian Spritz—gin, Aperol, St-Germain and grapefruit juice—a light, citrus-forward cocktail whose floral and bitter-sweet notes balanced the spicy sausage and creamy Gouda beautifully. It was an ideal example of how the right beverage can elevate a snack into a memorable tasting moment.
Since that trip, snacking at home has felt fresher and more exciting. I’m a habitual snacker, and I appreciate convenient options that offer interesting, restaurant-quality flavor combinations. Hillshire Snacking’s Small Plates and Grilled Chicken Bites are easy to keep on hand for a range of moments—an energizing bite on the go, a midday indulgence, or a quick way to lift a cozy night in. They work equally well for solo mini-breaks or as a simple, elevated option when guests stop by.
Taking five minutes to sit down with a thoughtfully paired snack is a small act of self-care that pays off. Whether you’re a parent juggling a hundred things or someone who simply likes to savor good food, these little pauses add up. They help me reset, recharge, and remember to enjoy the small pleasures in the middle of a busy day.
To learn more about #SnackWeek and ways to elevate your snacking routine, visit Hillshire Snacking. You’ll find product details, pairing ideas, and inspiration for turning everyday bites into something special.
Disclosure: This post was brought to you by Hillshire Snacking. Sponsored posts like this support the work behind Kitchen Confidante. Thank you for supporting the brands that matter to me and for making my blog part of your day.
