Here are seven high-protein snacks, recommended by registered dietitians.
Greek Yogurt
Plain, nonfat greek yogurt is a versatile high-protein snack, with 156 grams containing about 16 grams of protein. Ayood recommends adding ½ an ounce of nuts and one or two sliced dried dates or fresh fruit with a drizzle of honey for a sweet treat.
For a heftier hit of protein, add in some protein powder and blend it into a smoothie, recommends Brierley Horton, a registered dietitian nutritionist and co-host of The Happy Eating Podcast . Blend equal parts Greek yogurt and your favorite frozen fruit with about half as much milk (e.g., 3/4 cup Greek yogurt, 3/4 cup frozen fruit, 1/3 cup milk) and one to two scoops of protein powder, depending on your preference, she says, as well as any other ingredients for flavor, like nut butter, maple syrup or cocoa powder.
Hard-Boiled Eggs
While you can always make your own hard boiled eggs, Jones also recommends pre-boiled and peeled eggs for your fridge at home or when traveling. In addition to being a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, one large egg offers 3.6 grams of protein.
Jones suggests enjoying two hard-boiled eggs sliced on a piece of avocado toast or sprinkled with everything bagel seasoning with a side of fruit.
Hard Cheeses
“Hard cheeses like cheddar and parmesan offer a surprising protein dose along with a good source of calcium,” says Jones. For example, a 1-ounce serving (28 grams) of parmesan provides 10 grams of protein.
Jones recommends pairing your cheese of choice with whole grain crackers, carrots and hummus for a mini cheese board.
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Edamame
Edamame is an excellent way to consume high-quality plant protein, says Jones. One cup of shelled edamame contains 18 grams of protein—plus it’s a good source of iron, she says.
For an easy snack, sprinkle it with your favorite savory seasonings and enjoy with a piece of fruit, suggests Jones. For an extra protein punch, combine your edamame with hummus and use raw veggies like jicama or celery to scoop it, adds Ayoob.
Cottage Cheese
“Cottage cheese is rich in protein, making it an excellent choice for individuals looking to increase their protein intake,” says Schleiger. “[It] contains various essential nutrients including calcium, phosphorus, selenium, vitamin B12 and riboflavin.”
Four ounces of the nonfat variety contains about 12 grams of protein. It also contains beneficial bacteria, such as lactobacillus , which can contribute to a healthy gut microbiome, says Schleiger.
Try pairing cottage cheese with fresh fruits, sprinkling some herbs or spices on top or use it as a protein-rich topping for whole-grain crackers, Schleiger suggests.
Jerky
Available in beef, turkey and chicken varieties, jerky is a convenient and portable snack option for busy days or when you’re on the move, says Schleiger, adding that grass-fed options—which don’t contain hormones or antibiotics—are the best option. One ounce (28 grams) of beef jerky contains over 9 grams of protein.
In addition to eating it straight from the package, you can try making jerky roll-ups, suggests Schleiger. Just spread cream cheese or nut butter on a slice of jerky, then roll it up with sliced veggies like bell peppers, cucumber or carrots for a flavorful snack, she says.
Tuna
Tuna is an excellent source of high-quality protein and is known for its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health, says Schleiger. One 3-ounce can has about 20 grams of protein.
For a healthy snack, mix canned tuna with Greek yogurt or avocado for a protein-rich tuna salad wrapped in lettuce or whole-grain wraps, advises Schleiger.
If you’re trying to get more protein in your diet, there’s no need to turn your eating style upside down tomorrow, says Ayoob. “Anything you do that’s an improvement gets applause from me,” he says. “It’s not a race here, and ‘perfect’ isn’t the prize because everyone is different.”