When it comes to snacking, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut. Reach for another bag of chips or handful of pretzels? No thanks! Instead, why not try something that will not only curb your hunger but also support your fitness goals? We’re talking high protein snacks that are not only delicious but also nutritious.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering recipes that are packed with protein to help you power through your day. From classic combinations like peanut butter and banana to more unique pairings like tuna salad and lettuce wraps, these snacks will satisfy your cravings and keep you fueled for whatever comes next. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!
Peanut Butter Protein Balls
A convenient and healthy snack that combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the protein-packed power of rolled oats.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup protein powder (your favorite flavor)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: chocolate chips or chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the peanut butter, rolled oats, and protein powder. Mix until well combined.
2. Add the honey and salt to the mixture and stir until smooth.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 6-8 balls.
4. Place the peanut butter protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake bites are ready when you are.
Greek Yogurt and Honey Parfait
A sweet and refreshing treat that’s perfect for any time of day, this Greek yogurt and honey parfait is a simple yet satisfying dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon granola or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Spoon half of the yogurt-honey mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top with half of the mixed berries.
4. Repeat steps 2-3 to create another layer.
5. If desired, sprinkle some granola or chopped nuts on top for added crunch.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy, ready in just a few minutes.
Tips:
– Use your favorite type of yogurt or honey if you prefer a different flavor profile.
– Substitute other fruits like sliced peaches or diced mango for the mixed berries.
– Make this parfait ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving.
Hard-Boiled Eggs with Avocado
Elevate your breakfast game with this simple and delicious recipe that combines the richness of hard-boiled eggs with the creaminess of avocado. Perfect for a quick morning meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, chives)
Instructions:
1. Place the eggs in a single layer at the bottom of a saucepan or pot.
2. Add enough cold water to cover the eggs by about an inch.
3. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 12-15 minutes.
4. Remove the eggs from the hot water with a slotted spoon and transfer them to an ice bath to stop cooking.
5. Once cooled, peel the eggs and halve or quarter as desired.
6. Top each egg half with mashed avocado, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Add red pepper flakes or chopped fresh herbs if desired for extra flavor.
Cooking Time:
– Hard-boiling eggs: 12-15 minutes
– Cooling: 5-10 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups
A classic snack or lunch option that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 slices of deli turkey breast
– 4 slices of cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon of cream cheese, softened
– 1 package of large flour tortillas (6-8 count)
– Optional: lettuce, tomato, mustard, pickles
Instructions:
1. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Spread about 1/4 teaspoon of cream cheese along the center of the tortilla, leaving a small border at both ends.
3. Place 2-3 slices of turkey breast on top of the cream cheese.
4. Add 1 slice of cheddar cheese on top of the turkey.
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the tortilla into a neat cylinder.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None needed! These are ready to eat straight away.
Protein-Packed Trail Mix
Kick-start your day with a nutritious and delicious trail mix that’s packed with protein to keep you going all morning!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 1/2 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1/4 cup protein-rich peanut butter chips
– 1/4 cup chia seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the oats, nuts, and dried fruit.
2. Melt the peanut butter chips in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or until smooth.
3. Stir the melted peanut butter into the oat mixture until well combined.
4. Add the chia seeds and salt; stir until evenly distributed.
5. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Let it cool completely before breaking into clusters.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix, spread, and enjoy!
Tuna Salad Lettuce Wraps
These refreshing lettuce wraps are a great way to enjoy tuna salad without the carbs. Made with canned tuna, crunchy veggies, and creamy dressing, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of chopped celery
– 1/4 cup of chopped red bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce leaves for wrapping
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flaked tuna, celery, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Add the mayonnaise mixture to the tuna mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the tuna salad onto a lettuce leaf.
6. Fold the lettuce in half to create a wrap, and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is ready in just 10 minutes.
Cottage Cheese with Pineapple
This sweet and savory combination is a perfect blend of creamy cottage cheese, juicy pineapple, and a hint of spice. Enjoy as a snack or use as a topping for your favorite breakfast or brunch dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese and pineapple chunks.
2. Add the honey, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor.
– Adjust the amount of honey to your taste.
– This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Edamame with Sea Salt
Savor the simplicity of this classic Japanese side dish, featuring tender edamame and a touch of sea salt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup edamame (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse edamame under cold running water, then drain well.
2. If using frozen edamame, thaw according to package instructions.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine edamame and water.
4. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with sea salt. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Almond Butter and Banana Toast
A classic combination of creamy almond butter and sweet banana, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread (e.g., whole wheat or baguette)
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tbsp almond butter
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: honey, granola, or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread 1-2 tsp of almond butter on each slice of toast.
3. Slice the bananas into 1-inch pieces and place on top of the almond butter.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the banana slices, if desired.
5. Add optional toppings such as honey, granola, or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Less than 10 minutes
Grilled Chicken Skewers
Get ready for a flavorful and healthy meal with this easy-to-make Grilled Chicken Skewers recipe! Marinated chicken, colorful vegetables, and a hint of Mediterranean spices come together to create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and mix until coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread chicken, bell peppers, and onion onto skewers.
4. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chickpea and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of avocado with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, avocado, and cilantro.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss gently.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is quick and easy to prepare, ready in just a few minutes.
Beef Jerky and Cheese Sticks
A satisfying snack that’s perfect for game day or a quick pick-me-up, this recipe combines the savory flavor of beef jerky with the gooey goodness of cheese sticks.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (such as top round or flank steak)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 12-16 pretzel rods
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the beef from the marinade and place on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours or until the jerky is dry and slightly chewy.
6. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Place cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Pair the beef jerky with the cheese sticks and serve.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours for beef jerky, 10-12 minutes for cheese sticks
Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
This Quinoa and Black Bean Salad is a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The quinoa adds protein and fiber, while the black beans provide a boost of vitamins and minerals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
High-Protein Energy Bars
A convenient and nutritious snack for active individuals, these high-protein energy bars are packed with wholesome ingredients to keep you fueled and focused.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup peanut butter
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup protein powder (your choice of flavor)
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts work well)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until smooth.
2. Add protein powder, chopped nuts, and salt to the mixture. Stir until well combined.
3. Fold in chia seeds.
4. Press the mixture into a lined or greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Cut into bars of desired size.
Cooking Time: None! These energy bars require no cooking, just mixing and refrigeration.
Yield: 12-16 bars
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious high-protein energy bars!
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Cucumber Bites
A refreshing appetizer or snack that combines the richness of smoked salmon with the coolness of cream cheese and crunchy cucumber.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup softened cream cheese
– 1/4 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese and smoked salmon until well combined.
2. Arrange the cucumber slices on a serving plate or platter.
3. Spread a small dollop of the cream cheese mixture onto each cucumber slice.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh dill, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Roasted Chickpeas with Spices
Roasted Chickpeas with Spices Recipe
Transform plain chickpeas into a flavorful and addictive snack by roasting them with aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: additional spices of your choice (e.g., chili powder, coriander, or cayenne pepper)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chickpeas and remove any loose skins.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
4. Add the chickpeas to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
5. Spread the chickpeas on a baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until crispy and golden brown, shaking the pan halfway through.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Protein Pancakes with Berries
Start your day off right with a protein-packed breakfast that’s also delicious! This recipe combines the best of both worlds – fluffy pancakes and sweet berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup protein powder (your favorite flavor)
– 1/4 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– Fresh berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine oats, protein powder, almond flour, and baking powder.
2. In another bowl, whisk together applesauce, egg, and honey or maple syrup (if using).
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles form on the surface.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve with fresh berries and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Lentil and Vegetable Soup
A hearty and nutritious soup that’s perfect for a chilly day, packed with fiber-rich lentils and a variety of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Egg and Spinach Muffins
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious treat by baking these moist and flavorful egg and spinach muffins.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In another bowl, combine chopped spinach, eggs, milk, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 delicious high protein snack recipes that are healthy and easy to make. From classic snacks like peanut butter protein balls and turkey and cheese roll-ups, to innovative ideas like smoked salmon and cream cheese cucumber bites, there’s something for everyone. These protein-packed treats will keep you satisfied between meals or as a post-workout boost. Plus, many of these recipes are vegan or gluten-free friendly, making them accessible to a wide range of dietary needs. Get ready to snack smart with these tasty and nutritious ideas!
