Do you want to cut down on your carb-heavy snacking throughout the day? Here are 15 easy-to-make high-protein snacks that will keep you satisfied and may help you avoid reaching for junk food the next time you feel like snacking.
Whether you’re trying to build muscle or maintain weight, these snacks will help you get the protein your body needs. (Reference)
Note: I’m not a dietitian or nutritionist. I’m just someone who wants other snacking options besides sugary and carb-loaded snacks. If you have a health concerns please talk to your doctor or other health professional.
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Higher Protein Snacks
Want some high protein snack ideas that you can can quickly grab and enjoy? Well, check out this list.
Some of them do require some planning and preparation, but once you’ve made them, they’re easy to consume.
1. Greek Yogurt and Berries
Greek yogurt is packed with protein. And if you get the “plain” flavor it is rather low in carbs too.
You can add a touch of jam, syrup or honey for a little sweetness and you’ll still get less carbs than a flavored yogurt.
Top it with fresh berries for a nice snack.
2. Hard-Boiled Eggs
Hard-boiled eggs are a nice portable snack that provide a good dose of protein.
Sprinkle with a bit of salt and pepper, or paprika for extra flavor.
How to Hard Boil Eggs
The way I hard boil eggs is to put the raw eggs into the a pot with enough water to cover the eggs by about an inch. Turn up the heat until the water boils. (You have to keep an eye on it.) Once boiling, I put on a tight-fitting lid, turn off the burner, remove the pot from the heat and set a timer for 13 minutes.
Once the 13 minutes is up, I remove the eggs and immediately put them into a bowl with cold water and ice cubes.
To mark your eggs — I use a crayon to write the date I hard-boiled the eggs on the eggshell. So when they’re in the fridge I can clearly see when I made them.
3. Almonds
A handful of almonds makes for a protein-rich snack that’s also high in healthy fats.
Perfect for an on-the-go energy boost.
You can get flavored varieties from companies like “Blue Diamond” which are super tasty, but that tastiness may lead to over-eating…so careful of that if you’re trying to watch your calorie intake.
4. Cottage Cheese and Fruit
Cottage cheese is high in protein.
Pair it with fruit – such as pineapple chunks or strawberries – for a refreshing and satisfying snack.
Wondering about which fruits have the lowest carbs? This website lists the carb quantities of popular fruits.
5. Edamame
Steamed edamame is a delicious and protein-packed snack. You can sprinkle it with a bit of sea salt for added flavor.
If you don’t feel like making your own edamame, you can buy snack bags like the ones above from “The Only Bean.”
6. Protein Smoothie
Blend your favorite protein powder with almond milk, a frozen banana, some berries and a handful of spinach for a quick and easy protein-rich snack. You could also add hemp hearts for some extra protein.
If you’re watching your carbs, you may want to use less banana or leave it out completely.
7. Turkey Roll-Ups
Roll slices of turkey breast around a piece of cheese or a pickle for a simple, protein-packed snack.
I like how quick these are to make. If I feel a carb craving coming on, I can make one of these instead and feel satisfied within minutes. And the crunch of the pickle helps offset the softer texture of the turkey and cheese.
8. Peanut Butter on Celery
Spread peanut butter on celery sticks for a crunchy snack that’s also rich in fats.
It is a finger food that many kids – and adults – enjoy.
We put a few raisins onto the peanut butter and call it “ants on a log.”
9. Hummus and Veggies
Hummus, made from chickpeas, is a great source of protein.
Pair it with a variety of fresh veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers.
It is a good snack and also makes a great appetizer for family gatherings or parties.
10. Chia Pudding
Mix chia seeds with milk (or almond milk) and let it sit overnight to thicken.
Top with fresh fruit for a tasty and protein-rich snack.
Want some chia seed pudding recipes? Click here to check them out. (Plus, a more comprehensive recipe.)
11. Beef Jerky
Beef jerky is a portable and protein-rich snack that’s perfect for on-the-go.
Choose a low-sodium variety for a healthier option or if your doctor has told you to watch your salt intake.
What I like about beef jerky is how you can buy it almost anywhere including gas stations. (Perfect for road trips.)
12. Tuna Salad
Mix canned tuna with a bit of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or avocado and spread it on whole-grain crackers or cucumber slices.
13. Roasted Chickpeas
You can roast chickpeas with a bit of olive oil and your favorite spices for a crunchy, high-protein snack. (You can try this recipe.)
If you don’t want to make your own, there are companies like Biena that serve up snack-sized bags of chickpeas.
14. String Cheese
String cheese is an easy and convenient snack that has protein and fats.
It’s a good option for kids and adults alike.
It is one time where you can play with your food without getting funny looks. (Pull the cheese apart to make string creatures.)
15. Protein Bars
Proteins bars are a convenient snack food.
That being said, many of them have lots of ingredients with confusing names. It is still likely better to reach for one of these than grab fast-food, but don’t make these a staple of your diet (unless your doctor asks you to for some reason). Reference
I hope these high-protein snack ideas have provided you with some good ideas on what time to reach for next time you’re in a “snacky” mood.
Up Next:
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Find this list of high protein snack ideas later by pinning the picture below to your favorite Pinterest board.
