Are you tired of sacrificing taste for nutrition when it comes to your snacks? As a fitness enthusiast, you know that fueling your body with the right foods is crucial for optimal performance and recovery. But let’s face it – most high-protein snacks can be bland and boring.
That’s why we’ve rounded up 20 delicious high protein snack recipes that will satisfy your cravings and support your fitness goals. From classic Greek yogurt with honey and almonds to more adventurous options like smoked salmon and cream cheese cucumber rolls, these tasty treats are perfect for grabbing on-the-go or enjoying as a post-workout reward.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of high-protein snacks that will keep you full and focused, all while providing the necessary amino acids to support muscle growth and repair. So whether you’re a gym rat, a yogi, or just someone who loves good food and good health, read on for our top 20 high protein snack recipes that will take your fitness game to the next level.
Greek yogurt with honey and almonds
Sweet and Crunchy Greek Yogurt with Honey and Almonds Recipe
Combine the creamy richness of Greek yogurt with the natural sweetness of honey and the crunch of almonds for a delicious and healthy snack or breakfast.
Ingredients:
• 6 oz Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp pure honey
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and honey. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the top of the yogurt mixture.
3. If desired, add a pinch of salt to balance out the sweetness.
4. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and serve.
Hard-boiled eggs with sea salt
Transform your hard-boiled eggs into a flavorful and visually appealing snack by adding a sprinkle of sea salt. This simple technique enhances the natural taste of the eggs while providing a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon sea salt
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 the heat to a simmer for 10-12 minutes for large eggs.
4. Remove the eggs from the water with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate or tray.
5. Sprinkle each egg with a pinch of sea salt while still warm.
Cooking Time:
– Large eggs: 10-12 minutes
– Extra-large eggs: 12-15 minutes
Protein-packed energy balls with peanut butter
Boost your energy levels with these no-bake protein-packed bites made with peanut butter, oats, and nuts. Perfect for a quick snack or post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, oats, peanuts, and salt. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in honey and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Fold in dark chocolate chips until they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small energy balls, about 1-inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 balls.
5. Store energy balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake)
Roasted chickpeas with smoked paprika
Transform ordinary chickpeas into a flavorful snack by adding the deep, smoky flavor of smoked paprika. This simple recipe yields a deliciously addictive treat perfect for munching on the go.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, cumin, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse chickpeas and remove any loose skins.
3. In a bowl, toss chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, and salt until evenly coated.
4. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 30-40 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through, until the chickpeas are crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey and cheese roll-ups
A simple yet satisfying snack or lunch option that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. These roll-ups are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite fillings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sliced turkey breast
– 4-6 slices of cheese (such as cheddar, Swiss, or American)
– 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Whole wheat tortilla wraps (about 4-6)
Instructions:
1. Lay a slice of turkey breast flat on a clean surface.
2. Place one to two slices of cheese on top of the turkey.
3. Spread a small amount of cream cheese over the cheese.
4. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top of the cream cheese.
5. Roll up the filling tightly, but gently, making sure the filling stays inside.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Cook time: None (as it’s a no-cook recipe)
– Total time: 10 minutes
Cottage cheese with fresh berries
Start your day with a light and refreshing breakfast or snack by combining creamy cottage cheese with sweet and tangy fresh berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, scoop out the desired amount of cottage cheese.
2. Top with fresh mixed berries.
3. If desired, drizzle with honey for added sweetness.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None – this is a no-cook recipe!
Tuna salad on whole-grain crackers
A simple and satisfying snack that’s packed with protein and whole grains. This recipe combines the freshness of tuna with the crunch of whole-grain crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 tablespoons of low-fat mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 whole-grain crackers
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tuna, mayonnaise, parsley, and lemon juice. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Season the tuna mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Arrange the whole-grain crackers on a serving plate or individual plates.
4. Spoon the tuna salad onto the crackers, dividing it evenly among the crackers.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Edamame with a sprinkle of chili flakes
This simple recipe adds a burst of flavor to the classic boiled edamame by sprinkling chili flakes on top, perfect for those who like a little heat. The subtle sweetness of the edamame pairs well with the spicy kick from the chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen or fresh edamame
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the edamame under cold water, then place them in a medium-sized pot or saucepan.
2. Add enough cold water to cover the edamame by about an inch.
3. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes (or according to package instructions).
4. Drain the edamame and immediately sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and chili flakes.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Grilled chicken skewers with tzatziki
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with this refreshing Greek-inspired recipe. Juicy chicken skewers paired with a cool and creamy tzatziki sauce make for the perfect summer treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
– Olive oil for grilling
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine yogurt, cucumber, dill, garlic, and lemon juice in a bowl. Season to taste.
6. Serve grilled chicken skewers with tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quinoa and black bean salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the rich flavor of black beans, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, and red bell pepper.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top and toss again.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Quinoa cooking time: 15-20 minutes or according to package instructions
– Preparation time: 10 minutes
Protein smoothie with spinach and banana
Revitalize your day with this nutrient-packed smoothie, combining the benefits of spinach, banana, and protein powder for a quick and delicious boost. Perfect for a post-workout snack or a healthy breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen spinach
– 1 ripe banana
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (20g)
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Add all the ingredients to a blender and blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
2. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
3. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Baked tofu bites with soy glaze
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and flavorful baked tofu bites, smothered in a sticky soy glaze. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or as a tasty appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized cubes
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch, soy sauce, and maple syrup.
3. Toss tofu cubes in the mixture until evenly coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spray with olive oil. Arrange tofu bites on the sheet.
5. Drizzle sesame oil and sprinkle garlic powder over the tofu.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. While the tofu is baking, prepare the soy glaze by whisking together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup.
8. Remove from oven and brush with soy glaze.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Almond butter on whole-wheat toast
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe combines the creamy richness of almond butter with the wholesome goodness of whole-wheat toast.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole-wheat bread
– 1/4 cup raw almonds
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: honey, jam, or sliced banana for added sweetness and texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat a toaster or toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Toast the whole-wheat bread until lightly browned.
3. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of almond butter on each slice of toast.
4. In a small bowl, grind the raw almonds using a food processor or mortar and pestle until they reach your desired consistency for the butter.
5. Add a pinch of salt to the ground almonds and mix well.
6. Spread the homemade almond butter on top of the store-bought butter on each slice of toast.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy! If desired, add a drizzle of honey, jam, or sliced banana on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes toasting time)
Chia seed pudding with almond milk
This simple recipe yields a nutritious and delicious breakfast or snack option that’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. Chia seeds soak up the almond milk to create a creamy pudding-like texture, perfect for topping with your favorite fruits and nuts.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Optional: honey or maple syrup (to taste), sliced fruit, nuts, and shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and almond milk. Whisk until the chia seeds are evenly coated.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. When ready to serve, give the mixture a good stir and add any desired toppings (such as sliced fruit, nuts, and shredded coconut).
4. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Smoked salmon and cream cheese cucumber rolls
Elevate your appetizer game with these refreshing and flavorful rolls, perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 4-6 cucumber slices
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 whole wheat or white flour tortillas
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese and smoked salmon until well combined.
2. Lay out a tortilla and spread about 1-2 tablespoons of the salmon-cheese mixture along the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
3. Arrange 2-3 cucumber slices on top of the filling.
4. Sprinkle chopped fresh dill over the cucumbers.
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (preparation time only)
Lentil hummus with veggie sticks
A twist on traditional hummus, this recipe adds the nutritious power of lentils to create a creamy and flavorful dip. Serve it with crunchy veggie sticks for a satisfying snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup veggie sticks (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lentils, chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the dip is smooth and creamy.
5. Serve with veggie sticks.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Beef jerky with a hint of garlic
Transform plain beef jerky into a flavorful snack with this simple recipe that adds a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (top round or flank steak)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade, ensuring they are coated evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Bake the beef for 3-4 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Enjoy your delicious garlic beef jerky!
Peanut butter and banana protein muffins
These protein-packed muffins combine the creamy richness of peanut butter with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, making for a deliciously satisfying snack or post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/4 cup mashed banana
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (30g)
– 1 tablespoon peanut butter
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, combine oats, almond flour, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, mix together applesauce, mashed banana, protein powder, peanut butter, and egg until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Grilled shrimp with lemon and herbs
This refreshing recipe brings together succulent shrimp, zesty lemon, and fragrant herbs to create a light and flavorful dish perfect for warm weather gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this mouthwatering appetizer or main course in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, and dill.
3. Add shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for 15-20 minutes.
4. Remove shrimp from marinade and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
High-protein overnight oats with flaxseeds
Kick-start your day with a nutritious and filling breakfast that’s high in protein and fiber. This recipe combines the goodness of rolled oats, Greek yogurt, and flaxseeds to create a creamy and satisfying bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chia seeds
– 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder ( approx. 25g protein)
– Pinch of salt
– Toppings: sliced banana, almonds, or shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mason jar or container, combine oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, and ground flaxseed.
2. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Add the vanilla protein powder and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Refrigerate overnight for at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours.
5. In the morning, give the oats a good stir and add your preferred toppings (if using).
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Overnight
Summary
Get ready to fuel your fitness goals with these 20 delicious high protein snack recipes! From classic Greek yogurt with honey and almonds to tasty turkey and cheese roll-ups, there’s something for everyone. Other standouts include roasted chickpeas with smoked paprika, grilled chicken skewers with tzatziki, and a protein-packed smoothie with spinach and banana. These satisfying snacks are perfect for post-workout recovery or a quick energy boost throughout the day.
