We all know how afternoon hunger pangs can lead to not-so-healthy snack choices. Whether you skipped breakfast or worked through lunch, you can nosh on any of these 10 nutritious snacks right at your desk. They all have fiber-rich ingredients that’ll keep you satisfied until your next meal. These snacks require a little prepping, but we promise the work is well worth it.
1. Basic Hummus
What makes it healthy: Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein. Plus, tahini–which comes from sesame seeds–is packed with healthy and filling fats.
Why we like it: You can pair it with bell peppers and carrots for a crunchy-and-creamy, Mediterranean-style snack.
2. Spiced Chickpea “Nuts”
What makes it healthy: The protein and fiber in chickpeas work together to fill you up without too many calories.
Why we like it: You can satisfy your craving for something crunchy and salty without popping open a bag of something processed.
3. Kale Chips
What makes it healthy: Just one serving of these crunchy kale chips gets you your daily intake of vision-boosting vitamin A and immune-friendly vitamin C.
Why we like it: It makes kale snack-worthy. ‘Nuff said.
4. Whole Wheat Avocado Toast
What makes it healthy: Heart-healthy avocado pairs with fiber-packed whole grains to make an energizing portable snack.
Why we like it: You can throw an avocado and some whole-grain bread in your bag and assemble it all at work. Up the fancy factor by adding a hardboiled egg, pomegranate seeds, or toasted pumpkin seeds.
5. Overnight Oats with Blueberries
What makes it healthy: Cholesterol-lowering oats pair with fiber-packed blueberries for a healthy grab-and-go breakfast.
Why we like it: Once you try overnight oats, you won’t go back to the hot stuff. You just combine the ingredients in a container, refrigerate it overnight and grab it on your way out the door. Their pudding-like creaminess will satisfy your sweet tooth with no guilt (and no microwave) required.
6. Strawberry & Yogurt Parfait
What makes it healthy: Greek yogurt packs more protein than regular yogurt. Protein helps you feel satisfied, while strawberries get you some digestion-friendly fiber.
Why we like it: You can’t go wrong with a classic parfait at snack time. If strawberries aren’t your thing, try using seasonal fruits instead.
7. Peanut Butter, Quinoa, & Cranberry Bites
What makes it healthy: Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it has all the amino acids our bodies need to get from food. Sesame seeds and peanut butter both offer sources of healthy fats.
Why we like it: This recipe uses ingredients you might already have in your pantry, like oats, quinoa, peanut butter, and dried cranberries.
8. Easy Homemade Granola
What makes it healthy: Slow-burning carbs like oats help satisfy your hunger without leading to not-so-fun blood sugar crashes.
Why we like it: Store-bought granola is usually loaded with sugar. Save yourself the calories (and money) by making this granola masterpiece in only 20 minutes.
9. Greek Yogurt Spinach Dip
What makes it healthy: This recipe uses protein-packed Greek yogurt to cut down on saturated fat.
Why we like it: Pair it with cucumbers, bell peppers, and whole-wheat pita, and it’s like having a mini crudité platter at your desk.
10. Edamame-Ginger Dip
What makes it healthy: Edamame is a protein-packed legume that’s rich in folate, which helps make sure your brain works properly (that is, it’s perfect for when you need to do heavy-duty thinking).
Why we like it: You need only 15 minutes of prep work to make a batch for the whole week.
Need more help finding quick, easy, and healthy snacks for the office? Our team of Registered Dietitians is here to help you create a plan that is unique to you. Get started by requesting your appointment here.
