New to vegetarian eating and looking for snacks that will fight cravings while keeping you full and energized? These 25 high-protein vegetarian snacks have you covered!
Making the switch to a vegetarian diet can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to getting enough protein and finding snacks that actually keep you full. You might worry that without meat, you’ll be hungry all the time or start craving the foods you’re trying to move away from.
But the truth is, there are plenty of delicious, high-protein vegetarian snacks that will not only satisfy your hunger but also help you stay energized and on track with your new lifestyle.
Ready to discover 25 satisfying snacks that crush cravings and keep you fueled? Keep reading to find your new favorites!
Why Protein is So Important in a Vegetarian Diet
Protein isn’t just for bodybuilders—it’s essential for muscle repair, energy production, and keeping you full longer. When transitioning to a vegetarian diet, it’s important to make sure you’re getting enough protein so you feel satisfied throughout the day. Learn more about getting protein easily on a vegetarian diet.
Since skipping protein can leave you feeling sluggish and hungry (which might make those old meat cravings harder to resist) be sure to incorporate high-protein vegetarian snacks into your daily routine. With the right snack choices, you’ll keep hunger at bay and fuel your body with the nutrients it needs.
The Power of Smart Snacking
Snacking often gets a bad reputation, but when done right, it’s an excellent way to stay full between meals and reach your protein goals. The key is choosing nutrient-dense, protein-rich snacks that give you long-lasting energy without unnecessary calories or carbs.
If you’re watching your calorie intake, focus on high-protein low-calorie vegetarian snacks that fill you up without overloading on fats or sugars. If you’re aiming for better blood sugar control, high-protein low-carb vegetarian snacks can help keep energy levels stable. No matter your goal, the right snacks will help you feel your best!
Whole Foods vs. Processed Snacks: Which Is Better?
While store-bought protein bars and packaged snacks can be convenient, many contain added sugars, preservatives, and artificial ingredients. Whole foods and homemade snacks tend to be healthier, more satisfying, and packed with natural protein sources.
By choosing whole food snacks like nuts, seeds, dairy, legumes, and tofu-based options, you’ll avoid unnecessary additives and get pure, natural protein. Of course, some store-bought options are great in a pinch, but making your own high-protein vegetarian snacks ensures you get maximum nutrition and flavor!
25 High-Protein Vegetarian Snacks That Will Keep You Full
Now that you know why snacking is important, let’s get to the good stuff—delicious high-protein vegetarian snacks that will satisfy your hunger and crush cravings! Most of these are savory (since they tend to be more filling), but I’ve also included a few sweet treats for balance.
Savory High-Protein Vegetarian Snacks
1. Hummus
Creamy, flavorful, and packed with plant-based protein from chickpeas, hummus is a perfect high-protein snack. Pair it with crunchy veggies or whole-grain crackers for extra fiber.
2. Roasted chickpeas
Chickpeas aren’t just for hummus! Roasting them with olive oil and spices in the air fryer or oven creates a crispy, protein-packed snack that’s both satisfying and portable.
3. Cottage cheese
Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein and makes the perfect quick snack.
4. Edamame
Edamame is a high-protein low-carb vegetarian snack that’s easy to prepare—just steam, sprinkle with sea salt and lemon, and enjoy.
5. Greek yogurt
Greek yogurt is packed with protein. Eat it topped with fruit and nuts or mix in some seasoning to make an easy vegetable dip.
6. Hard-boiled eggs
Eggs are a quick, high-protein option that’s easy to prep ahead of time. Add hot sauce or mustard for extra flavor.
7. Nut butter
Almond, peanut, or cashew butter adds plant-based protein and healthy fats. Spread it on whole-grain toast or apple slices for a balanced snack.
8. Tofu bites
Tofu is a fantastic high-protein vegetarian snack that absorbs flavors well. Bake or air-fry bite-sized pieces with your favorite seasonings.
9. String Cheese
A cheese stick is a simple snack in a pinch! Pairing with a handful of almonds or walnuts provides the perfect mix of protein, fats, and crunch.
10. Seitan or tempeh jerky
Seitan and tempeh are protein powerhouses. Marinate and roast them for a chewy, flavorful snack that mimics jerky. Try this seitan jerky recipe.
11. Pumpkin seeds
Lightly salted pumpkin seeds (pepitas) are a great source of protein and make a great quick and easy snack. Pair them with raisins or dark chocolate chips for a salty and sweet combo.
12. Veggie pinwheels
Mix finely chopped broccoli and red pepper into cream cheese and spread onto a whole wheat tortilla. Wrap it up and cut it into bite-sized chunks that you can grab from the fridge when you need a quick snack.
13. Bean dip
Blend up black beans with some garlic, lime juice, and taco seasoning to make a quick and easy high-protein bean dip that you can snack on corn tortilla chips.
14. Cheese & crackers
A quick grab-and-go combo that always hits the spot.
15. Homemade protein crackers
Making your own crackers with almond flour, flaxseeds, and chia seeds creates a crunchy, protein-packed snack. Try this chia seed cracker recipe.
16. Ants on a log
Spread peanut butter on celery sticks and top with raisins for a protein-packed (if not kid-friendly) snack.
17. Shelling peas
Peas a great source of protein, and the ones that you pick from a shell make for a fresh and delicious snack.
18. Lentil chips
Blend lentils with spices and bake in the oven to make crispy, full-of-protein chips that are perfect for snacking. Try this lentil chip recipe.
Sweet High-Protein Vegetarian Snacks
19. Protein balls (oats, peanut butter, chia, & protein Powder)
A no-bake favorite, these bite-sized energy balls are loaded with protein and natural sweetness. Here’s my favorite protein ball recipe (using honey instead of brown rice syrup).
20. Smoothie
Blend Greek yogurt, almond butter, spinach, and berries for a creamy, protein-rich shake.
21. Cottage cheese with fruit and honey
Cottage cheese can be sweet, too! Pairing it with fruit and honey or maple syrup makes it almost like a dessert.
22. Chia seed pudding
Combine chia seeds, plant-based milk, and vanilla to create a sweet pudding snack. Chia seeds provide fiber, protein, and healthy omega-3s, making this a super satisfying treat.
23. Dark chocolate covered almonds
A perfect mix of protein, antioxidants, and healthy fats.
24. Granola clusters
Mix oats, nuts, seeds, and maple syrup together to make protein-packed granola bites. Try this granola cluster recipe.
25. Chickpea cookie dough bites
Use chickpeas, oats, syrup, and chocolate chips to make this super yummy high-protein snack. Try this chickpea cookie dough recipe.
Time to snack!
Snacking smart helps you stay full, fight cravings, and feel great as a vegetarian. Try these high-protein vegetarian snacks and find your new favorites!
And if you’re looking for veg meals to go with your snacking, be sure to check out these super quick and easy vegetarian meals.
XO – Bailee
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