If you have started a Paleo diet, you may be wondering, "what snacks can I eat that are Paleo-friendly?" I get asked this question a lot. While you may have chosen foods high in sugar and carbs as your go-to snacks in the past, these things are a no-no on Paleo.
One of the good aspects of the Paleo diet is that it excludes the unhealthy snack foods that cause weight gain: potato chips, ice cream, pretzels, etc. Eating snacks that are high in carbs and sugar aren't typically very filling, which is why we tend to eat more of them and the calories can definitely add up. In contrast, Paleo snacks are much more nutrient-dense and higher in protein and healthy fats, making you feel full quicker and preventing you from overeating. Below are my favorite Paleo-friendly snack foods that are easy to take with you on-the-go and you don't have to feel guilty about!
14 Easy Paleo Snacks
1. Hard Boiled Eggs
Opt for organic pastured eggs when possible. Make hard boiled eggs and refrigerate for a high-protein paleo snack or quick breakfast! Top with everything bagel (minus the bagel) seasoning, a dash of himalayan salt or balsamic vinegar for extra flavor!
2. Seaweed Snacks
Seaweed snacks are super low-calorie and my go-to when I am craving something salty and crunchy. High in iodine, seaweed is also great for the thyroid, and is a mineral many of us are lacking. These are my favorite.
3. Beef Jerky
Get a protein boost with grass-fed beef jerky! Beef jerky sticks are super yummy and easy to throw in your purse in times of need. Always read your labels and avoid the brands with a lot of preservatives and food dyes.
4. Smoked Salmon
Loaded with omega fatty acids, potassium selenium, B vitamins, and antioxidants, smoked salmon is a great snack packed with protein! Always choose wild-caught and avoid brands with added food coloring. Make a nice paleo snack or appetizer and add crunch by pairing with sliced cucumbers and fresh dill. Try this delicious recipe!
5. Leftover meat with mustard
Got leftover chicken or turkey in the fridge? Eat it cold and pair with some gluten-free mustard of your choice for a satisfying protein-dense snack craving.
6. Olives
High in vitamin E, powerful antioxidants, and healthy fats, olives are a quick and easy snack to pack. Visit the olive bar at your grocery store to get a mix of different tastes.
7. Dill Pickles
Pickles contain fiber, vitamin K, and probiotics, plus they have a wonderful tangy crunch! Eat in moderation because of high salt content. Pickles are great for athletes to replenish salt content lost through sweating. Always read labels and avoid the brands with food dyes and chemicals. You can even make your own at home!
8. Sauerkraut
Rich in probiotics, sauerkraut is very beneficial for your gut. You can buy it in any grocery store or you can make it easily at home.
9. Veggies with Guacamole
This combo is a great way to get in extra vegetables, fiber and healthy fat. Snack on your favorite veggies and dip into delicious homemade guacamole! Bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, cauliflower and broccoli are all great choices. Add lots of fresh squeezed lime juice onto of the guac to make it extra delish! Buy organic avocado mash already prepared if you want quick guacamole without the extra work.
10. Baba Ghanoush
What is Baba Ghanoush?! Similar to hummus (but without the chickpeas), baba ghanoush is a mediterranean roasted eggplant dip made with mashed & roasted eggplant, tahini, olive oil and lemon juice. You can buy baba ghanoush ready-made in the store or you can make it fresh at home. Add your favorite veggies to dip or eat it by itself as a side dish or paleo snack.
11. Tuna Wraps
For a fast paleo lunch or snack, add canned tuna mixed with a little avocado mayo, rice wine vinegar or red wine vinegar, chopped celery and bell peppers inside romaine lettuce leaves and eat it like a taco. You can also mix the tuna with avocado, a squeeze of lime and a little jalapeno pepper to spice it up. Try this out!
12. Egg Muffins
Great as a quick breakfast, egg muffins can also be a yummy snack. Make these to keep in the fridge and heat up in the toaster oven or frying pan. You can add any vegetable or meat and add different herbs like dill or basil so they never get boring. Try this recipe or create your own combo.
13. Zucchini Chips
Salty and crunchy chips without the potatoes, yes please! You can add different herbs and spices to get a variety of flavors. Click here to learn how to make them!
14. Raw Sprouted Pumpkin Seeds
When you are on the run, it's easy to have some raw pumpkin seeds to chomp on. Pumpkin seeds contain magnesium, zinc, and omega-3 fats. It is best to consume the raw form of these seeds in order to preserve the healthy fats they contain. These are my favorite.
I hope that these paleo snacks help you achieve your goals for a healthier lifestyle!