Protein is a great way to fill up, without relying on carbs. If you’re going keto, trying out paleo, or simply watching your weight, you’ll love these delicious and healthy recipes. There are 30 sweet and savory snacks on this list, so you’ll never be stuck for ideas on how to make it from lunch to dinner. Snack on a moist lentil muffin, mini-burritos, or an almond quinoa energy bar for mouth-watering ways to beat the mid-afternoon slump. And you don’t have to give up your sweet treats along with the carbs. Try peanut butter frozen yogurt, chia seed pudding, or fruity granola parfaits for treats that are packed with protein but low in sugar. These tempting treats are far too delicious to be diet food!
1. Cottage Cheese Toasts
These toasty treats aren’t just packed with protein, they’re also high in calcium – making them a super healthy option for snack time. Creamy cottage cheese is piled onto tiny toast triangles, then topped with fresh vegetables.
2. Peanut Butter Chia Seed Pudding
Chia seeds are amazing. Not only are they loaded with omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, but they’re also a great thickener for puddings. This recipe mixes chia seeds with peanut butter and plant-based milk for a healthy vegan dessert. There’s no sugar in this pudding, just natural sweeteners like dates, and maple syrup. It’s guilt-free goodness in a bowl!
3. Salted Edamame
If you’re craving salty treats, don’t reach for a bag of chips. Make this recipe instead for a healthier (but just as addictive) option. Made from soybeans and salt, this is a really simple snack that needs no introduction.
4. Hard Boiled Eggs
Eggs are a quick, convenient snack that’ll keep you satisfied between meals. But they’re not always easy. If you’ve ever known the trauma of over-cooked eggs, you’ll want to check out this thorough tutorial on the best way to get perfectly boiled eggs every time.
5. String Cheese/Cheese
Cheese is another easy and convenient way to get a quick protein hit. Kids love the fun of pulling apart string cheese but adults may prefer a more grown-up variety. The most protein-packed cheeses are parmesan, ricotta, cottage cheese, and cheddar.
6. Black Bean Dip
Perfect for game day, this creamy dip is full of both protein and flavor. It’s made with soft black beans, spicy jalapenos, garlic, and fresh lime juice. Avoid the chips if you’re low-carb and scoop it up with healthy vegetables like cucumber, carrots, or celery instead.
7. Peanut Butter Frozen Yogurt
Frozen yogurt is my favorite summertime snack, especially when it’s swirled with creamy peanut butter and chocolate chips! No ice-cream maker? No problem! Just pour into a container and freeze for a few hours.
8. Pita Pizzas
These cute pizzas are versatile enough to serve as a snack, a light meal, or an appetizer. There are a few suggestions for toppings so you can mix and match. Try buffalo chicken, classic, or even strawberry if you’re in the mood for something sweet.
9. Yogurt
Yogurt is a great choice for hungry dieters. It’s so satisfyingly creamy and thick, a few spoonfuls at breakfast will keep you going all morning. You can try making your own with this healthy DIY recipe or stick with store-bought. Just be sure to read your labels. Many brands include sweeteners and flavorings that could derail your diet.
10. Hummus
It’s a cinch to whip up your own hummus, so ditch the store-bought and try this easy recipe. A healthy blend of chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon, it’s the ultimate plant-based protein.
11. Strawberry Banana Granola Parfaits
Try this recipe for breakfast, and you’ll be buzzing all day long. Fresh fruit is layered with homemade granola and Greek yogurt for a sundae-style treat.
12. Roasted Edamame
If you want salty crunch, without carbs, try these insanely addictive soybean snacks. Roasted edamame is coated in sea salt, but you can also mix up your seasonings. Try ‘em spicy with a dusting of cayenne, or turn them taco with cumin and paprika.
13. Almond Sesame Crackers
Made with almond flour and sesame seeds, these paleo treats are loaded with heart-healthy ingredients. They’re also extremely easy to make, and ready in just 20 minutes. Eat them as-is or make a big batch to go with your favorite dip.
14. Trail Mix
Homemade trail mix is great. Not only can you control the ingredients, you’ll also have something healthy handy when cravings strike. This version is an energy-boosting blend of seeds, dried fruits, and chocolate chips.
15. Mini-Burritos
Adorable and tasty, these fun burritos are my new favorite app. Filled with spicy meat, melty cheese, and soft beans, they’re too good to just have one!
16. Milk/Chocolate Milk
A glass of milk is one of the easiest ways to get fast protein. It also happens to be creamy and delicious, but if you’re not keen on dairy you can try adding fun flavors. Mix in a heaping spoonful of cocoa powder and your sweetener of choice for a chocolatey milkshake. Stir in a scoop of vanilla protein powder or just blend your milk with fresh fruit for a sweet smoothie.
17. Almond Quinoa Energy Bars
These high-powered energy bars will deliver a sweet boost for your brain, body, and belly. They’re made with smooth almond butter, dried cranberries, oats, and quinoa. Full of fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, these are a winner any time of day. Sneak them into lunch boxes, leave them on the counter, or carry them to the office. These guys travel and store well, making them perfect for on-the-go snacking.
18. Sunflower Seeds
When I’m trying to quit chips (it’s an ongoing battle), I keep a bag of sunflower seeds handy. They give you that irresistible salty crunch, without all the grease and unhealthy fats. Not only are these nutritious nibbles high in protein, but they’re also packed with selenium and vitamin E.
19. Cheesy Kale Chips
Warning – once you realize how delicious kale can be in chip form, you’ll develop an addiction to the antioxidant-rich leafy green. This tasty, vegan recipe shows you how it’s done. Simply toss chopped kale in a seasoning blend made from cashew, sunflower seeds, and garlic. Bake until crispy and enjoy. You won’t believe there’s no actual cheese in these ‘cheesy’ chips!
20. Tuna and Crackers
These cute bites are a great appetizer for parties, potlucks, or just your average family dinner. Creamy tuna salad is piled onto tiny crackers for protein-rich snacks that are large enough to satisfy but won’t weigh you down.
21. Roasted Pumpkin Seed Hummus
Not a fan of chickpeas? That’s okay, you can still enjoy creamy delicious hummus-style dips. This recipe is a flavorful alternative to traditional hummus, with the rich, nutty taste of roasted pepitas. Smoked paprika adds a wonderful spicy flavor, while garlic and lemon provide plenty of tangy taste. This dip is a nutrition powerhouse that’s just begging to be smeared onto crackers and gobbled up.
22. Deviled Eggs
Classic deviled eggs are always a popular appetizer. Creamy and satisfying, they’re a great way to up your protein while partying. They’re also very easy to throw together. Assembling your eggs takes about 15 minutes (less if you already have a few hard-boiled eggs in the fridge). Store them in the fridge and they’ll be good for up to three days. If they last that long!
23. Chocolate Lentil Protein Muffins
You’ll fall in love with lentils after trying these deliciously moist muffins. They’re proof that you don’t need flour or sugar to make melt-in-the-mouth baked goods. Made with banana, cooked lentils, coconut oil, and eggs, these are also gluten-free and dairy-free. Filling and gorgeously chocolately, these are perfect for a quick protein-rich breakfast. They’re a big hit with kids, too! If you’re trying to wean your littles off sugary snacks, sneak some of these muffins into their lunch box, and they’ll come home happy.
24. Crispy Baked Tofu Nuggets
These meatless nuggets are a vegan alternative to fried chicken fingers, and they taste just as good (yes, honestly!) Firm tofu fingers are rolled in seasoned breadcrumbs and then baked until golden brown and perfectly crunchy. These are crazy good and insanely irresistible so make extras! Team them with your favorite dip, salsa, or sauce. These guys really want to be dunked and devoured!
25. Ham Roll Ups
Ham roll-ups are a deceptively simple appetizer that’s equally great for solo snacking or feeding a crowd. They’re made with just 3 ingredients so really easy to prepare too! Simply wrap slices of deli ham around a cream cheese and pickle filling. They’re creamy, crunchy, tangy, and too tempting to stop at one.
26. Chicken Salad Bites
Sweet, savory, and creamy, this chicken salad is to die for. It’s made with tender chunks of white chicken in a rich yogurt dressing. Chopped walnuts add a bit of crunch while dried cranberries provide just the right amount of sweetness. Spoon into pastry cups and set aside a few for yourself before your guests get to work.
27. Turkey Cheddar Roll Ups
These tiny turkey bites are ideal for lunchboxes, snack time, light lunches, or parties. They’re simple but satisfying with thick slices of turkey wrapped around a cream cheese and lettuce filling. You don’t need bread for the perfect wrap. Just pick up a pack of turkey next time you hit the deli and lunch is sorted for the week!
28. Nuts
Nuts aren’t just a great source of plant protein, they’re also incredibly versatile. You can snack on them raw for a quick energy boost, or make things more interesting with a few flavor combos. Spice them up by tossing them in cumin, paprika, and a touch of cayenne. Make them sweet and salty with a blend of cinnamon and sea salt. Keep things simple with salt, pepper, and a dash of vinegar. It’s well worth getting creative and avoiding pre-packaged mixes which can hide nasty additives and preservatives. All nuts are high in protein, but some contain more than others. The most protein-rich varieties include almonds, walnuts, and pistachios.
29. Jerky
Jerky refers to any type of dried and preserved meat. You might’ve noticed it at the grocery store with flavors ranging from plain to peppery. Made from meat, they’re almost pure protein and provide quick-release energy that lasts for hours. Making your own jerky isn’t complicated, but it is time-consuming. The meat has to be cooked low and slow. This is generally done in a dehydrator but your oven works just as well. Once you get the basics, you can get creative with your own favorite flavors and rubs.
30. Roasted Chickpeas
If you have a pantry full of canned chickpeas and an intense need for salty snacks, you’ll love this recipe. Crispy and savory, these roasted chickpeas are so good you’ll forget you’re eating legumes. You’ll be too busy shoveling them into your mouth to think of the nutritional content. But rest assured these are full of protein and fiber, making them a snack superfood. This DIY recipe takes you through the process to get perfectly crispy chickpeas every time. There are also a few ideas for seasonings featuring aromatic spices and fresh herbs. Eat them by the handful any time hunger strikes or keep them around to toss into salads and soups instead of croutons. They tend to lose their crunch as they cool so if you like your snacks chewier than crispy, let them rest awhile before snacking. Click on a star to rate it!
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