Top 10 Healthiest Snacks, Approved By Nutritionists

Snacking doesn’t have to sabotage your healthy eating goals. In fact, smart snack choices can boost energy, curb cravings, and deliver essential nutrients your body craves.

Nutritionists agree that the right between-meal bites can actually support weight management and overall wellness.

Here’s a roundup of genuinely nutritious options that get the expert stamp of approval.

1. Greek Yogurt with Berries

Creamy Greek yogurt paired with juicy berries creates a protein-packed powerhouse that’ll keep hunger at bay for hours. The protein content (typically 15-20g per serving) helps repair muscles while providing lasting satiety.

I discovered this combo during my marathon training days when afternoon energy crashes were ruining my workouts.

The natural sweetness of berries eliminates any need for added sugars, while delivering a hefty dose of antioxidants and fiber.

2. Almonds and Dark Chocolate

A handful of almonds plus a few squares of dark chocolate equals snack perfection! This dynamic duo combines heart-healthy fats from nuts with antioxidant-rich cacao, creating a satisfying treat that actually benefits your body.

Aim for chocolate with at least 70% cacao content to maximize flavanols while minimizing sugar. The protein and fiber from almonds slow digestion, preventing blood sugar spikes that lead to energy crashes.

3. Avocado Toast on Whole Grain

Avocado toast isn’t just an Instagram darling—it’s legitimately nutritious! Spreading creamy avocado on fiber-rich whole grain bread creates a perfect balance of healthy fats, complex carbs, and filling fiber.

My nutritionist actually recommended this as my pre-workout fuel, and the difference was immediate. A sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning or red pepper flakes adds flavor without empty calories.

For extra protein, top with a poached egg or hemp seeds.

4. Hummus with Rainbow Veggies

Hummus brings protein-packed chickpeas and heart-healthy olive oil to the snacking table. When paired with colorful veggie sticks, you’re getting a fiber-filled feast that satisfies crunchy cravings without resorting to chips.

Bell peppers deliver vitamin C, carrots provide beta-carotene, and cucumber adds hydration. The combination of plant protein and fiber keeps you full between meals.

Plus, the prep is minimal—just slice vegetables ahead of time for grab-and-go convenience.

5. Apple Slices with Nut Butter

Crisp apple wedges dunked in almond or peanut butter create a snack that balances natural sweetness with protein and healthy fats. The combination helps stabilize blood sugar while providing sustained energy—no vending machine required!

Back when I coached youth soccer, this was my secret weapon for hangry kids at halftime. Look for nut butters with just one ingredient (nuts!) to avoid added oils and sugars.

A sprinkle of cinnamon adds warmth and may help regulate blood sugar.

6. Edamame Pods with Sea Salt

Pop open these green gems for a protein-packed snack that’s fun to eat! Edamame delivers complete plant protein (about 8g per half-cup) along with fiber and essential nutrients like folate and vitamin K.

Simply steam frozen pods for 5 minutes, sprinkle with sea salt, and enjoy. The act of squeezing beans from their pods slows down eating, helping you recognize fullness cues.

Plus, their mild, nutty flavor appeals to even picky eaters.

7. Hard-Boiled Eggs with Everything Bagel Seasoning

Hard-boiled eggs pack serious nutrition into a portable package! Each egg delivers 6g of complete protein along with choline for brain health and lutein for eye protection—all for just 70 calories.

The game-changer here is everything bagel seasoning. I discovered this combo during a particularly hectic workweek, and it transformed my plain eggs into something I actually looked forward to eating.

Batch-cook eggs on Sundays for grab-and-go protein all week long.

8. Roasted Chickpeas with Spices

Forget chips! Roasted chickpeas deliver that satisfying crunch with actual nutritional benefits. These fiber-filled legumes transform into crispy, popable snacks when tossed with olive oil and roasted until golden.

Experiment with spice combinations like smoky paprika, curry powder, or cinnamon-maple for variety. The protein-fiber combo keeps hunger at bay, while their portability makes them perfect for desk drawers, car consoles, or gym bags.

9. Cottage Cheese with Pineapple

Cottage cheese has made a mighty comeback in the nutrition world! This protein powerhouse (14g per half-cup) supports muscle maintenance while keeping hunger pangs away for hours.

My grandmother always paired it with pineapple chunks, which I thought was weird until I tried it myself. The sweet-savory combination is surprisingly addictive!

The protein slows digestion of the fruit’s natural sugars, preventing energy spikes and crashes that plague many sweet snacks.

10. Trail Mix with Nuts, Seeds and Dried Fruit

Custom trail mix lets you control exactly what goes into your snack! Skip store-bought versions (often loaded with candy and salt) and create your own nutrient-dense blend.

Combine walnuts (omega-3s), almonds (vitamin E), pumpkin seeds (magnesium), and a sprinkle of dried cherries or blueberries (antioxidants). The healthy fats and protein from nuts and seeds balance the natural sugars in dried fruit.

Portion into quarter-cup servings to avoid mindless munching.