Need inspiration for some healthy vegan snacks? Do I have the list for you! These snack ideas are inexpensive, ready in less than 10 minutes, great for on the go, and keep you fueled and energized throughout the day!
Let’s face it. Most of us enjoy snacking, but this often entails highly processed foods that are definitely not doing us any favors. You know, potato chips, candy bars, sodas, energy drinks, etc.
Well, vegan snacking is automatically healthier, right? Not necessarily! There’s a popular misconception that automatically associates the terms “vegan” and “plant-based” with “healthy.” There are “accidentally vegan” snacks such as Oreos that are definitely not healthy after all. Veganism is first and foremost not about the health of humans but the well-being of animals.
That said, yes, veganism can definitely be very healthy! By focusing primarily on whole foods, many people who go vegan experience impressive weight loss, increased energy, and much more.
So, for this article, I’m going to focus on 39 healthy vegan snacks so that you can snack in a way that’s friendly to both animals and your own well-being!
What Makes a Healthy Vegan Snack?
To put together this list, there were a few major criteria for these healthy vegan snacks that I tried to keep in mind. In order to have a large number of options, not all of the snacks will fit all of these criteria, but they definitely helped guide my selections.
- Cost – A snack isn’t an entire meal and it shouldn’t cost as much either!
- Ease – Again, this isn’t an entire meal and ideally, it shouldn’t take you that long to prep
- Portability – Many of us are on the go a lot, so it’s helpful to have snacks that transport well!
And the major criterion of nutrition, of course!
In general, most of these snacks contain some quantity of protein, fiber, and/or healthy fats. Why? These macronutrients are all essential for helping keep us feeling full (or “satiated,” to use a slightly more technical term). In addition to being satiating, many of these snacks also contain a good deal of micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals that will help boost overall health!
In case it’s helpful, here’s a good beginner vegan grocery list so you can stock up on the staples that many of these snacks will require!
P.S. Most of these are pretty simple or self-explanatory, so just look up recipes for the few that aren’t if you’re interested!
39 of the Best Vegan Snacks
Whole-Grain Crackers and Salsa/Guacamole
Whole-grain crackers make a solid tortilla chip substitute because they tend to be heartier and healthier. Rather than something like queso or refried bean dip (although you can make healthier vegan versions of these), use salsa and guacamole as a healthy dip option.
Cucumbers and Salsa/Guacamole
Another great tortilla chip substitute is cucumber slices! Even if you simply substitute half your tortilla chips or crackers for cucumbers, you’ll have a much healthier snack. Cucumbers are hydrating, essentially calorie-less, and loaded with good nutrients!
Fruit and Nut Butter
Simple, easy, classic, customizable. For example, almond butter and an apple, or peanut butter and banana. Pairing nut butter with fruit is a delicious way to get a boost of protein and fiber and other nutrients. Sometimes simple is best!
Smoothies
Smoothies can be an amazing snack, but you should make them with nutrition in mind (or pay very close attention when buying a pre-made one). For your best bet, make one at home with a handful of leafy greens and plenty of your favorite fruits. It’s best to use water or unsweetened plant milk rather than something like juice. To help improve the consistency, you can also add vegan yogurt.
Veggies and Hummus
An all-time vegan classic, veggies and hummus pair super well together. You can make your own hummus, or if you get store-bought hummus, try to pick one without a ton of oils. Either way, add fresh lemon juice to your veggies and/or your hummus for extra flavor! Hummus is also incredible with pretzel chips or pita chips, although these aren’t nearly as healthy as vegetables, of course.
No-Bake Protein Bites
These come in all kinds of forms and are sometimes known as “energy balls.” Whatever you call them, they can be a very fun and healthy snack option. Check out my recipe for vegan protein cookie dough bites or funfetti protein bites—no baking required, and they’re super tasty!
Trail Mix
Trail mix can be a fantastic snack, especially if you’re on the go, like on a hike or road trip. That said, some store-bought trail mix can be full of chocolate and candy (like M&Ms) that bring down the healthy quality. Luckily, this is super easy to make at home. Simply throw together your favorite nuts and seeds and add some dried fruit and maybe a few vegan chocolate chips as well for a treat.
Edamame
Edamame is simply soybeans that are still in their pod. Since soybeans are high in protein and fiber, these make a great snack on their own! To help boost the flavor, try adding a little soy sauce or salt.
Roasted Chickpeas
Chickpeas are the main ingredient in delicious foods such as hummus and tahini. They’re also pretty great on their own, especially if you roast them up in the oven with some spices and a drizzle of oil! Just be sure to eat them up in a day or two, because they don’t stay good that long in my experience.
Fruit Leather
Good fruit leather is simply fruit puree that’s been flattened out and dried. In this way, it’s very similar in nutrition to fresh fruit, which means it’s packing plenty of fiber and nutrients. That said, some store-bought fruit leather isn’t all that healthy, so you might want to make your own. If so, simply puree your preferred fruits and mix with lemon juice and a sweetener such as maple syrup (if desired). Then spread on a baking sheet (on parchment paper) and bake at 140°F for 5-6 hours.
Rice Cakes and Hummus or Avocado
Rice cakes are a crunchy snack that tend to be pretty healthy. They don’t usually pack a ton of flavor, though, so top them off with something like hummus, avocado, or nut butter to boost the flavor and nutrition. You can use rice cakes as a substitute for toast if you’re watching your calories.
Oatmeal with Fruit and Nuts
Oatmeal is a breakfast staple, of course, but it also makes a great little snack! Just be sure to add fruit and nuts/seeds to add extra protein and fiber so you’ll stay fuller longer!
Cereal/Granola with Fruit and Nuts
Of course, when I say cereal/granola here I’m not talking about those super sugary ones. What you want to look for is an option with some kind of whole grain or whole grains, not a ton of added sugar, and some decent fiber. Then, just add fruit and nuts/seeds (or nut butter), for an easy and healthy snack!
Peanut Butter Banana Toast
Peanut butter banana toast isn’t only fun to say, but it’s a nutritious treat and a super quick and easy snack! You can substitute your preferred nut butter and fruit—for example, you might try making almond butter pear toast. The options are endless! Just aim to use healthy bread for your toast (such as whole/multi-grain).
Avocado Toast
I don’t think this one needs much introduction or explanation! Avocado is super good for you (in moderation), so as long as you pair it with a healthy piece of toast (see above), then you’re in good shape! Try adding hemp seeds or other healthy toppings to boost the nutrition!
Pita Chips and Hummus
Pita chips and hummus is another classic vegan snack. It can also be rather healthy, particularly if you make the pita chips and hummus yourself. Of course, we don’t all have the time or energy for that, so try to look for hummus that doesn’t have a lot of oils and pita chips that are “reduced guilt” (I dislike this term but that’s how many things are branded—at Trader Joe’s for example, and their “reduced-guilt” pita chips are great.)
Popcorn with Nutritional Yeast
Popcorn is one of those foods that doesn’t seem like it should be healthy. I think it’s because we tend to associate it with movie theaters and that artificial butter nonsense. Well, popcorn on its own is just corn kernels, so it’s a healthy snack full of fiber. The trick is to add a healthier topping such as nutritional yeast. I also have a recipe here for three different popcorn toppings if you’d like to branch out!
Seaweed Sheets
You can find these seaweed sheets more easily nowadays, and they’re a very low-calorie snack that happens to be packed with nutrition! Many Western people don’t get enough iodine, and seaweed (and other sea vegetables such as dulse) is full of it! Just try to find some that don’t come with a bunch of ingredients (ideally just seaweed, salt, and olive oil).
Celery with Peanut Butter
Celery with peanut butter is a childhood classic. Paired with raisins (or chocolate chips), it’s known as “Ants on a log.” This is one of those childhood snacks that’s actually pretty darn healthy! Celery is similar to cucumber in that both are crunchy, nutritious, and hydrating. Add that to peanut butter and you get a crunchy, healthy delight!
Nuts and Seeds
We should all go nuts for nuts and seeds! While often included in trail mix, nuts and seeds are an important part of any diet. They provide healthy fats, omegas, protein, fiber, and more. They’re also highly portable! Tip: nuts can be expensive, so look to save money by buying them in bulk.
Frozen Fruit
Frozen fruit doesn’t have to be just for smoothies! Especially when it’s warm or hot outside, frozen fruit can be an amazing snack. You just have to let the fruit thaw for a few minutes and then you can start enjoying them. Some of my favorites include frozen berries and frozen grapes.
Air-Fried or Dry-Fried Tofu
Tofu on its own is a super nutrient-dense food. If you air fry or dry fry it (that is, without oil), it’s particularly healthy. Simply pair it with your favorite dipping sauce. Peanut sauce or a sweet and sour sauce are two favorites of mine!
Kale Chips
Kale can be super delicious (and is obviously healthy) but it takes a little effort. One fairly low-effort way to enjoy kale is to make kale chips, which are a healthy way to satisfy those cravings for crunchy, crispy, and salty.
Bruschetta on Whole-Grain Crackers
Bruschetta is a simple snack that primarily consists of tomatoes, which are packed with the antioxidant lycopene (not to mention fiber, vitamin C, and other good stuff). Pair with some healthy bread or crackers and you have a delicious and nutritious snack!
Avocado (yes, just avocado)
Okay, with maybe a few things sprinkled on top! Avocado, as mentioned above, is a super healthful food. While you may want to limit it somewhat if you’re watching your calories, avocado is a nutrient-dense food with healthy fats that will help keep you fuller longer. Simply add your favorite seasonings to a half or quarter of an avocado for a ridiculously easy snack. You might try salt and pepper and a little paprika. Hot sauce of your choice is also great!
Quick-Baked Apples or Pears
Simply slice up an apple or a pear (which you can simply cut in half) and bake until soft. Then add cinnamon and eat with peanut butter or the nut butter of your choice. This is a treat that tastes decadent but is super healthy! That’s because roasting fruits and vegetables helps bring out the natural sugars in them.
Chia Pudding
Chia pudding is an awesome snack that’s also great for breakfast. It’s pretty good for when you’re on the go as well! It’s nice because you can just make it at night and then you’ll have it ready the next day whenever you need a quick, nutritious snack. I have a recipe for chocolate chia pudding that I am constantly meal prepping for the week ahead!
Hummus & Veggie Sandwich
We’ve already covered hummus and veggies as a great snack. This is simply the sandwich version! I like putting a little Vegenaise on one side and hummus on the other for some additional creaminess.
Peanut Butter & Preserves Sandwich
Did you know there’s a difference between preserves, jam, and jelly? In essence, there’s the most fruit in preserves and the least amount of fruit in jelly (with jam in between). So, while preserves might cost you a little more money, it’s typically the healthier option. PB&J (or PB&P here) is a classic for a reason, and it's great when you need something quick and easy with staples you have at home!
Healthy Packaged Snacks
While in general, it’s best to avoid pre-packaged goods (vegan or otherwise), there are some that are pretty healthy. Here’s a selection of ones that I enjoy on occasion:
- Enjoy Life cookies
- Nature’s Bakery fig bars
- Larabars
- Food Should Taste Good sweet potato chips
- Hippeas chickpea snacks
- Skinny Pop popcorn
- Mary’s Gone Crackers
- Miyoko’s gourmet cheese rounds
- Kite Hill dips
- Vegan yogurt (I like So Delicious brand, especially the Peach and Raspberry flavors!)
Wrapping Up
I hope you’ve discovered some nice healthy vegan snacks! Please let me know if there are any other healthy vegan snacks that you love down below!
If you enjoyed this healthy vegan snacks article, find more resources below:
- 10 Vegan TED Talks You Need to Watch
- 5 Simple Steps to go Vegan
- 12 Reasons Why People Don't Stay Vegan
- Tips for Veganuary
- The Best Vegan Egg Substitutes for Baking
- Tips for Being Vegan on a Budget
- 11 Things I Wish I Knew Before Going Vegan
- Beginner Vegan Grocery List
- Just Egg Review
- 15 Plant-Based Protein Sources
- Essential Vegan Pantry Staples
- 10 Easy Vegan Food Swaps
