Introduction
How many times have you felt those mid-afternoon hunger pangs and reached out for a bag of chips or a box of cookies? While these quick fixes may satiate your hunger in the short term, they provide little nutritional value while packing loads of processed sugars and saturated fats. To combat the incessant cravings in a healthier way, why not prepare protein-packed snacks that not only curb hunger but are also a quality source of nutrients? Here, we bring to you a handful of delicious high-protein snacks that you can prepare in under 5 minutes.
1. Greek yogurt with chia seeds and fruits
Greek yogurt is a fantastic source of proteins and a perfect base for creating a yummy snack packed with nutrients. Stir in chia seeds which brings in their share of proteins with a bonus of omega-3 fatty acids. Finally, add a handful of your favorite fruits that lend some natural sweetness and a ton of vitamins. This creamy, crunchy, sweet, and filling snack takes less than 5 minutes to prepare and can be a perfect start to your day or an afternoon refresher.
2. Cottage Cheese with Cucumber and Cherry Tomatoes
Cottage cheese, fresh cucumber, and cherry tomatoes make for a winning combo. Not only are they high in protein, but the refreshing crunch of cucumber and the burst of sweetness from tomatoes make it a delightful and quick refuel. Season this protein-packed snack with salt, pepper, or a sprinkle of your favorite herbs for a quick, light, and refreshing fix.
3. Peanut Butter Celery Sticks
This might take you back to your childhood days, but it’s a classic for a reason. The crispy celery loaded with healthy, protein-rich peanut butter creates a perfect balance. You can bring more nutrients to your plate by topping it with dried fruit or nuts. Just wash the celery, slather on some peanut butter, top with your choice of nuts or dried fruits, and voila! A protein-packed snack in under five minutes!
4. Hummus and Veggie Sticks
Creamy hummus paired with crunchy vegetable sticks isn’t just healthy, it’s also utterly delicious. Hummus is loaded with proteins and when dipped with a variety of fresh veggies, you get a massive hit of nutrients with each bite. The best part? Use store-bought hummus and this snack will be ready even before your hunger pangs kick in.
5. Boiled Egg on Whole Grain Toast
A favorite classic that stands the test of time. Whole grain bread and a hard-boiled egg make up the base while you can bring in more flavor and nutrition with some fresh avocado and a sprinkling of flax or chia seeds. High in protein, fiber, and omega fatty acids, this hearty snack will keep you satiated until your next meal.
Conclusion
High-protein snacks need not be complicated or time-consuming. With a bit of planning and stocking up on the right ingredients, there is a variety of flavorful, nourishing, and protein-packed snacks that you can whip up in under five minutes. The above mentioned quick and easy to prepare snacks not only provide a wholesome dose of proteins but also a wide array of other nutrients. So next time you feel like reaching out for that processed, sugary snack, give these healthier options a go!