19 Nutritious, Protein-Rich Snacks That’ll Actually Fill You Up
Protein is an essential macronutrient that helps build muscle, repair tissue, and make enzymes and hormones. It’s also particularly important for maintaining satiety, the feeling of fullness that helps curb overeating. For those looking to stay satisfied between meals or after workouts, here are 19 nutritious, protein-rich snacks that are both delicious and filling:
1.Greek Yogurt: A single serving can pack up to 20 grams of protein. Opt for plain varieties to avoid added sugars and top with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey.
2.Cottage Cheese: High in protein, cottage cheese can be enjoyed with fruit or on its own. Some brands offer single-serve containers making it an easy on-the-go snack.
3.Hard-Boiled Eggs: With about 6 grams of protein each, eggs are a protein superstar and portable when hard-boiled.
4.Almonds: A small handful of almonds offers around 6 grams of protein, plus healthy fats that contribute to satiety.
5.Jerky: Beef or turkey jerky is a high-protein snack that’s convenient for snacking anytime, anywhere.
6.Pumpkin Seeds: A quarter-cup of pumpkin seeds contains 8 grams of protein along with magnesium and zinc.
7.Peanut Butter on Celery Sticks: This classic combination provides protein along with a satisfying crunch.
8.Edamame: These steamed young soybeans are both tasty and nutritious with about 17 grams of protein per cup.
9.Tuna Salad on Crackers: Mix tuna with a little mayo and spread on whole-grain crackers for a quick, protein-rich snack.
10.Protein Bars: Look for bars with minimal added sugar and at least 10 grams of protein.
11.String Cheese: Convenient and fun to eat, one stick of string cheese has about 8 grams of protein.
12.Protein Shakes: Blend up a whey or plant-based protein powder with your choice of milk and fruit for a refreshing beverage.
13.Roasted Chickpeas: Seasoned and roasted chickpeas can be a crunchy, high-protein alternative to chips.
14.Quinoa Salad: Even cold, quinoa salad is hearty enough to be a snack that’s rich in protein and fiber.
15.Hummus with Veggies: Pairing hummus with slices of cucumber or bell peppers makes for a nourishing snack with good amounts of protein.
16.Peanut Butter Energy Balls: Made with oats, flaxseed, peanut butter, and honey, these are energizing bites high in protein.
17.Oatmeal With Nut Butter Stirred In: For an afternoon twist on breakfast, add almond or peanut butter to your oatmeal for extra protein.
18.Ricotta Cheese with Berries: Sweeten up this creamy cheese with some berries for a decadent yet high-protein treat.
19.Turkey Roll-Ups: Spread cream cheese on turkey slices and roll them up for a quick finger-food type snack high in lean protein.
These snacks not only provide the nutrients needed to keep you fuller longer but can also help you meet your daily protein requirements in a delicious and convenient way. Remember to pair these high-protein foods with sufficient water intake throughout the day to aid digestion and further enhance satiety.