Finding a filling and energizing snack while on the go can be tricky. Many commercially produced snacks are full of sugar and processed ingredients and leave you wanting more soon after eating.
The main thing is high-protein snacks, which aid muscle repair, metabolism, and sustained energy.
In collaboration with a dietitian, this article lists 28 high-protein snacks, which are truly nutritious and epic for eating on the go.
Whether you prefer homemade goodies or store-bought alternatives, these snacks will effectively curb cravings, fuel your body, and keep you fuller longer.
The Relevance of Protein in Snacking
Proteins are macronutrients, engaging in muscle repair, enzyme production, and immune support. In contrast to carbohydrates, which digest and trigger a surge in energy, proteins have a prolonged digestion time, thereby enabling the subsequent stabilization of blood sugar and averting energy crashes.
High-protein snacking:
• Can reduce cravings and curb overeating
• These proteins are important for maintenance and recovery of muscle tissue.
• These proteins can keep you feeling full for extended periods.
• They will give you energy over the long haul.
So let us dig into the most excellent high-protein snacks about the town.
1. Greek Yogurt with Nuts or Seeds
Greek yogurt contains 15-20g of protein per serving. Toss in some crushed almonds, walnuts, or chia seeds to up the protein and add in some healthy fats to keep you satisfied. Avoid flavored yogurts with added sugar.
2. Hard-Boiled Eggs
Rich in high-quality protein, eggs contain 6 g of protein in one serving. They are easy to prepare in bulk and can be carried inside a small container. Sprinkle with salt and pepper for flavor.
3. Cottage Cheese with Berries
A half-cup of cottage cheese contains about 14 g of protein. Pairing the cottage cheese with berries will add natural sweetness and some antioxidants. Grab a single-serve cup for easier travel.
4. Protein Bars
When choosing protein bars, look for those with at least 10 g of protein and little added sugar. Great brands include RXBAR, Quest, and KIND Protein. These are good options for a satisfying on-the-go snack on a busy day.
5. Jerky (Beef, Turkey, or Salmon)
Jerky is a protein-rich, low-carb snack that does not need refrigeration. An average serving of 1 ounce contains 10-15 g of protein. Be sure to select brands with as few additives and preservatives as possible.
6 Roasted Chickpeas
Crispy and flavorful, roasted chickpeas offer about 6-7 grams of protein by serving. Any good store out there sells these husk chick peas; but if you would rather do it your way, roast them in an olive oil flavor with spices that suits you best.
7 Tuna or Salmon Packets
These ready-to-eat packets are high in protein (15-20g per serving) and rich in omega-3s. Pair with whole-grain crackers or eat straight from the packet for a satisfying snack.
8 Edamame (Steamed or Roasted)
Edamame is a plant-based protein powerhouse, offering about 17g per cup. You can buy it pre-steamed and shelled for easy snacking or opt for dry-roasted edamame for extra crunch.
9 Almond Butter with Apple Slices
Almond butter gives protein and healthy fats, and apples offer fiber and natural sweetness. Approximately 7g of protein is contained in one serving (2 tablespoons) of almond butter.
10 Cheese Sticks or Cheese Cubes
Cheese makes for the easiest snack, full of protein, and just as good-for-gobbling when you’re on the move. String cheese or cheese cubes offer around 6-8g of protein per serving. Eat with whole-grain crackers for balance.
11 Hummus and veggies
This protein-rich food is around 5 grams of protein per serving. Cucumber, carrot, or bell pepper sticks provide a very high fiber content in snacking.
12 Peanut Butter And Celery
About eight grams protein is served up by two tablespoons of peanut butter, while celery rounds out that earthy, crunchy, creamy experience by adding lots of fiber.
13 Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas)
Pumpkin seeds are approximately 7 grams of protein per ounce; hence they are very calorically dense. They are also significantly rich in magnesium and zinc. So a healthy measure can be added to your diet.
14 Chia Pudding
These “superfood” chia seeds are loaded with protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids. Mix them together with almond milk, keep them overnight, and in the morning you have a great pudding-like snack. This serving will give you around 5 grams of protein.
15 Whole-Grain Crackers with Smoked Salmon
Smoked salmon provides a good amount of protein (15 to 20 grams per serving) as well as omega-3s. Enjoy this wholesome and well-balanced snack together with whole-grain crackers.
16 Turkey or Chicken Roll-Ups
Roll slices of turkey or chicken breast with a slice of cheese or a piece of avocado for a high-protein, low-carb snack. Each roll-up contains about 10 grams of protein.
17 Quinoa Salad Cups
Quinoa is a complete protein and has about 8 grams per cup. Make mini quinoa salad cups filled with veggies and a light dressing for an easy snack that’s portable and packed with protein.
18 Protein Smoothie
Combine protein powder with almond milk, spinach, and a banana in a blender for a quick, nutritious beverage. A typical smoothie can offer 20-25 g of protein depending on what goes into it.
19 Spicy Boiled Lentils
Half a cup has about 9 grams and what should be known about lentils is that they are the best plant-based source of protein. Get cooking and spice them according to your personal taste. Then in the end, it will be a tasty, on-the-go snack.
20. Sunflower Seeds
One hand gives you your 6-7 grams of protein and healthy fat content. Go with the unsalted kind to keep skip on sodium.
21. Baked Tofu Bites
Tofu is the plant-based protein thumb of prominence with almost 10g in a single serving. Bake little cubes of tofu with seasonings for a high-protein snack; it will not bite you back.
22. Canned Sardines
Sardines are protein-dense (20g per can) and rich in omega-3s. They are not one of the everyday favorites, but they stand as one healthy and filling snack.
23. Almond Flour Crackers with Cheese
Almond flour crackers are a gluten-free and high-protein alternative to regular crackers. Pairing them with cheese makes a perfect snack.
24. Boiled Soybeans (Tempeh Bites)
Tempeh is a fermented soybean product that offers roughly 15g of protein per serving. Slice and bake for a crunchy, high-protein snack.
25. Dark Chocolate-Covered Almonds
Almonds provide protein and healthy fats, while dark chocolate provides antioxidants. A small handful provides a balanced, protein-rich treat.
26. Oatmeal with Protein Powder
Oats contain some protein, but add protein powder and that raises the protein content to roughly 20g per serving. Pack in a thermos for easy carrying.
27. Whole-Grain Wrap with Peanut Butter and Banana
A whole-grain wrap filled with peanut butter and banana offers protein, fiber, and good carbohydrates. An energizing snack that keeps you feeling full for hours.
28. Homemade Energy Balls
The energy balls of oats, nut butter, protein powder, and honey make something easy for snacks but are rich in protein. Each such little bite would provide around 5g of protein.
Summary
Snacks rich in protein are the set of foods that will keep your energy high, curb your food cravings, and help you maintain good health.
Be it an animal-based protein or a plant protein; there are loads of nutritious, portable snacks to choose from.
Try a few from the above list and see which ones work for you. With the right snacks handy, you’ll remain full and fueled through the day!