Low-carb snacks get a bad rap for being overly restrictive and plain. But, this couldn’t be further from the truth! From savory avocado recipes to sweet low-sugar treats like chia pudding and dark chocolate, there are endless delicious and nutritious low-carb combos. And even if you’re not following a low-carb diet, embracing low-carb snacks can offer valuable health and nutritional benefits, including improved blood sugar, increased satiety, and potential weight management. So, whether you’re considering a low-carb lifestyle or simply looking to add more nutritious options to your snacking menu, we’ve got you covered with the best low-carb snack ideas!
The Health Benefits of Low-Carb Snacking
Unlike carbohydrate-rich snacks (which can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes), low-carb snacks — especially those high in protein, healthy fats, and fiber — have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. This makes them an ideal choice for individuals looking to reduce sugar cravings, manage blood sugar levels, increase satiety, and promote sustained energy levels.
That said, not all low-carb snacks are created equal. To get the most health benefits, it’s important to reach for nutrient-dense options and opt for snacks that offer a balanced combination of macronutrients. And lucky for you, we’re providing you with the healthiest options ahead.
Full of nutrients and flavor, here are fifteen delicious and versatile low-carb snack options to enjoy.
The 15 Best Low-Carb Snack Ideas
#1 Hard-Boiled Eggs
Wondering why hard-boiled eggs are a great low-carb snack option? The answer is simple. They’re high in protein, low in carbs, easy to prepare, and delicious to enjoy. In fact, when it comes to low-carb snacking, they contain less than 1 gram of carbohydrates per egg, making them virtually carb-free. Not only that, but they’re also packed with essential nutrients such as vitamins A, B12, D, and E, and minerals like iron, zinc, and selenium.
Pack them in your bag or lunchbox for a quick and nutritious on-the-go snack!
RELATED: Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Avoid The Egg Yolk
#2 Vegetable Sticks and Hummus
While it may sound plain and simple, there are so many reasons to opt for vegetable sticks and hummus as a low-carb snack. For starters, you can easily customize this snacking option with various veggies (such as bell peppers, jicama, and cucumber) and hummus flavors (like roasted red pepper or beet hummus). Plus, you’re getting a multitude of nutritional benefits, thanks to protein-packed chickpeas and nutrient-dense veggies.
Best of all, the combo of healthy fats, fiber, and protein helps keep you satisfied and may aid weight management and portion control.
#3 Cheese Cubes
Full of protein and healthy fats, cheese cubes are a quick, convenient, and delicious low-carb snack option. They’re easy to prep in advance, and come in a variety of flavors and types. From mozzarella and cheddar to nut-based cheeses like cashew and almond, there are so many low-carb options to choose from.
Taste aside, the combo of protein and healthy fats can help curb cravings and prevent overeating. Plus, despite being calorie-dense, there’s research to suggest that consuming cheese in moderation may be associated with weight management and even weight loss!
#4 Avocado
From low-carb avocado pudding to homemade guac, avocados are a perfect choice for low-carb snacking. Thanks to their healthy monounsaturated fats, avocados have been shown to benefit heart health by regulating blood sugar and lowering LDL cholesterol. Plus, they’re a rich source of dietary fiber, which has been linked to improved digestion and enhanced satiety.
Use them in place of high-sugar fruits in your smoothie, add them to turkey roll-ups, stir them into tuna salad, or mix them in salads and lettuce wraps.
RELATED: 7 Reasons to Add Avocado to Your Diet
#5 Nuts and Seeds
Naturally low in carbohydrates and full of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, nuts, and seeds are a highly nutritious snacking option. According to recent 2022 research, regular nut (and seed) consumption can improve metabolic markers, including improved blood sugar, increased HDL cholesterol, reduced LDL cholesterol, and reduced inflammation and oxidative stress, in both healthy individuals and those with metabolic disorders. In fact, 2023 research published in the Journal of Food & Nutrition links increased nut and seed consumption to a lowered risk of both cardiovascular disease and coronary heart disease.
Plus, nuts and seeds are particularly rich in nutrients like vitamin E, magnesium, selenium, and various B vitamins, which support energy production, immune function, and cognitive function.
RELATED: The 4 Healthiest Nuts to Eat According to Experts
#6 Greek Yogurt
Rich in gut-healthy probiotics and satiating protein, Greek yogurt makes for a satisfying low-carb snack choice that can help curb hunger and promote weight management. Use it as a creamy base for smoothies, mix it with granola or nuts for added crunch, or enjoy it as a nutritious substitute for mayo and sour cream in recipes.
RELATED: The 5 Healthiest Probiotic-Rich Foods For Gut Health According to an RD
#7 Berries
Despite their small size, berries are considered one of the top nutrient-dense food options. They’re full of essential vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals, including fiber, vitamin C, and anthocyanins. Their low-calorie content and high concentration of dietary fiber make berries an excellent choice for optimizing nutritional intake while keeping carbs relatively low. Shown to reduce inflammation, protect the body against chronic disease, and improve overall health, you’ll surely want to add berries to your low-carb snacking list!
RELATED: The Healthiest Low-Sugar Fruits to Add to Your Diet
#8 Deli Meat Roll-Ups
A convenient and versatile low-carb snack option when you’re looking for something quick and healthy on busy days! Despite containing little to no carbohydrates, deli meats, such as turkey and chicken breast, are excellent sources of protein. That said, not all deli meats are created equal. Opt for meats that are free from added sugars and artificial additives, and be mindful of sodium content.
Roll them up and enjoy them with your favorite fillings such as avocado, veggies, hummus, or guac!
RELATED: 5 High Protein Snacks For All-Day Energy
#9 Olives
Rich in monounsaturated fats, olives have been associated with various health benefits, including reduced inflammation, improved heart health, and better blood sugar control.
They also contain potent antioxidants, such as phenolic compounds and vitamin E, which have been shown to protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
And because they come in a variety of types and flavors — such as green, black, or Kalamata olives — there’s something for everyone.
Add them to salads, use them as a topping for pizza or sandwiches, or include them in your Bento Box or cheese platter.
#10 Chia Seed Pudding
It’s no real surprise to see chia seed pudding on our low-carb snack list. Chia seeds are full of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, calcium, magnesium, and various other vitamins and minerals. And out of the 5 grams of carbohydrates found in one tablespoon of chia seeds, 4 grams are dietary fiber — a nutrient that helps regulate blood sugar, aid digestion, and increase satiety.
RELATED: How to Make Chia Pudding + 6 Delicious Flavor Variations
#11 Dark Chocolate
High in healthy monounsaturated fats, packed with antioxidants, and full of mood-boosting properties, dark chocolate is the perfect low-carb choice when you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth in a healthy way. Linked to improved heart health and enhanced cognitive function, the flavonoids found in dark chocolate have been shown to improve blood flow, reduce blood pressure and cholesterol, and benefit focus, attention, and memory.
To get the full health benefits, opt for dark chocolate that is at least 70% or darker! Add cacao powder to your smoothie or chia pudding, sprinkle cacao nibs or dark chocolate chips over your oat or yogurt bowl, and melt your favorite healthy dark chocolate bar to use as a dipping sauce for your favorite fruit!
#12 Kale Chips
Skip the processed chips — make kale chips instead! Abundant in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals (such as flavonoids, carotenoids, calcium, potassium, and vitamins A, C, and K), kale chips serve as a nutritious and delicious snack alternative to store-bought snacks. Plus, by making kale chips at home, you can control the ingredients and avoid the processed carbs and refined oils found in most store-bought options.
Enjoy them plain or customize them with spices, fresh herbs, or low-carb flavorings like nutritional yeast.
RELATED: The Healthiest Dark Leafy Greens You Should Add to Your Diet
#13 Cottage Cheese
If you haven’t hopped on the cottage cheese trend, you’re missing out — the benefits of cottage cheese for low-carb snacking are plentiful. In addition to being low in carbs, cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein, meaning it can help curb hunger and reduce sugar cravings. Not to mention, it’s full of gut-healthy probiotics and essential nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, and B vitamins.
Blend it into creamy high-protein ice cream, use it as a base for dips and dressings, or add it to your avocado toast.
RELATED: Cottage Cheese Recipes are Trending: Here are 9 Ways to Use This High-Protein Ingredient
#14 Edamame
Providing all nine essential amino acids, edamame is a great source of plant-based protein. Considering it’s a complete protein source, this is especially beneficial for individuals following vegetarian or vegan diets, as it can help meet their protein needs. Edamame is also rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, such as vitamins C and K, folate, iron, and calcium.
Add it to salads and stir-fries, use it as a topping for grain bowls, or enjoy it plain as a snack with a sprinkle of sea salt.
5 Easy Low-Carb Snack Recipes
Overnight Protein-Packed Chia Pudding
Serves: 1
Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 cup oat milk
- 1 scoop protein powder
- ½ banana, mashed
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 handful mixed berries
- Slivered almonds, to serve
Directions:
Step #1: Place the chia seeds in a bowl and cover with the oat milk. Add the protein powder, banana, cinnamon, vanilla, and pure maple syrup. Stir well.
Step #2: Place in the fridge overnight.
Step #3: Top with fresh berries and slivered almonds before enjoying.
Blood Sugar Balancing Almond Butter Smoothie
Serves: 1
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 scoop protein powder
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed
- 1 tbsp almond butter
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 handful ice cubes
Directions:
Step #1: Add all of the ingredients into a high-speed blender and blend until smooth.
Step #2: Pour into a glass, sip and enjoy!
Hummus Pepper Boats
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 red bell pepper
- ¾ cup hummus
- Fresh parsley, chopped, to serve
- Chili flakes, to serve
- Sea salt & black pepper, to taste
Directions:
Step #1: Slice the bell pepper to make 4 boats. Discard the seeds.
Step #2: Divide the hummus between the 4 boats. Top with parsley, chili flakes, and season with sea salt and pepper.
Caprese Skewers
Ingredients:
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 container mini mozzarella balls
- ¼ – ½ cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinaigrette
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
Step #1: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil and balsamic vinaigrette. Stir until well combined and set aside.
Step #2: Next, make the skewers. Start by threading a mozzarella ball onto the stick, following with the cherry tomatoes and a fresh piece of basil. Repeat until the skewer is full. Once finished, drizzle with the balsamic olive oil mixture.
Step #3: Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve and enjoy!
Peanut Butter Bliss Balls
Serves: 10
Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 2 tbsp peanut butter
- 1 scoop protein powder
- ½ cup shredded coconut
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 pinch sea salt
Directions:
Step #1: Add all ingredients to a food processor and pulse until the mixture comes together.
Step #2: Chill in the fridge for 10 minutes and then roll into bite-sized rounds. Set in the freezer for 20 minutes before enjoying.
Step #3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
The Takeaway
Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or simply looking to make healthier snack choices, embracing low-carb snacking can benefit your health and wellness goals. From chia seed pudding and cottage cheese froyo to kale chips and Caprese skewers, these low-carb snack ideas will satisfy all your cravings while keeping your carb intake in check. And, not only are they tasty, but they also aid weight management, support blood sugar regulation, and provide vital nutrients (such as protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals).
Follow these recipe ideas, or use them as inspiration for all your low-carb snacking needs! Want more recipes? Sign up for FitOn PRO and get access to personalized meal plans, including healthy foods you’ll love to eat!
