30 High-Protein Snack Ideas to Fuel Your Runs

July 20, 2024
By Matteo

This guide is packed with 30 delicious and nutritious high-protein snack ideas that are easy to prepare and perfect for on-the-go.

Fueling your body with the right nutrients is essential for optimal performance and recovery, especially for runners. High-protein snacks play a crucial role in maintaining muscle mass, aiding in muscle repair, and keeping you satiated throughout the day. Whether you’re preparing for a long run, need a quick refuel post-workout, or simply want to stay energized between meals, having a variety of protein-packed snacks at your disposal is key.

From savory to sweet, there’s something for every palate. Incorporate these snacks into your routine to stay nourished, energized, and ready to conquer your runs. Enjoy!

1. Greek Yogurt with Honey and Berries

  • Protein Content: 10-15g per serving
  • Details: Combine Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey and a handful of mixed berries for a refreshing and protein-rich snack.

2. Hard-Boiled Eggs

  • Protein Content: 6g per egg
  • Details: Simple and portable, hard-boiled eggs are a quick and easy way to boost your protein intake.

3. Cottage Cheese with Pineapple

Photo via prairiefarms
  • Protein Content: 14g per serving
  • Details: The combination of cottage cheese and pineapple provides a balance of protein and carbohydrates.

4. Protein Bars

  • Protein Content: 15-20g per bar
  • Details: Choose bars with natural ingredients and minimal added sugar for a convenient on-the-go option, like these one.

5. Edamame

  • Protein Content: 8g per half cup
  • Details: Lightly salted edamame beans are a tasty and nutritious snack.

6. Turkey Roll-Ups

  • Protein Content: 5g per roll-up
  • Details: Wrap slices of turkey around cheese sticks or avocado slices for a protein-packed snack.

7. Peanut Butter and Apple Slices

  • Protein Content: 8g per serving
  • Details: Spread peanut butter on apple slices for a delicious and satisfying combination.

8. Hummus and Veggies

  • Protein Content: 2g per 2 tablespoons of hummus
  • Details: Pair hummus with carrot sticks, bell pepper slices, or cucumber rounds.

9. Protein Smoothie

  • Protein Content: 20-25g per smoothie
  • Details: Blend protein powder with your favorite fruits, spinach, and a liquid base like almond milk.

10. Tuna Salad on Whole Grain Crackers

  • Protein Content: 20g per serving
  • Details: Combine tuna with a small amount of mayo or Greek yogurt, and serve on whole grain crackers.

11. Almonds

  • Protein Content: 6g per ounce
  • Details: A handful of almonds makes for a quick, portable snack.

12. String Cheese

  • Protein Content: 7g per stick
  • Details: String cheese is convenient and easy to eat on the go.

13. Chia Seed Pudding

  • Protein Content: 4g per serving
  • Details: Mix chia seeds with almond milk and let it sit overnight for a nutritious pudding.

14. Jerky

Photo via Allrecipes
  • Protein Content: 9g per ounce
  • Details: Beef or turkey jerky is a savory, high-protein snack that's easy to carry.

15. Protein Pancakes

  • Protein Content: 20g per serving
  • Details: Make pancakes using protein powder or a mix specifically designed for high-protein content.

16. Lentil Salad

  • Protein Content: 18g per cup
  • Details: Combine cooked lentils with veggies and a light vinaigrette.

17. Roasted Chickpeas

  • Protein Content: 6g per half cup
  • Details: Season and roast chickpeas for a crunchy snack.

18. Cottage Cheese with Cucumber and Tomato

  • Protein Content: 14g per serving
  • Details: Combine cottage cheese with chopped cucumber and tomato for a refreshing and protein-rich snack.

19. Quinoa Salad

  • Protein Content: 8g per cup
  • Details: Mix cooked quinoa with your favorite vegetables and a light dressing.

20. Egg Muffins

  • Protein Content: 6g per muffin
  • Details: Bake eggs with veggies and cheese in a muffin tin for a convenient snack.

21. Smoked Salmon on Whole Grain Crackers

  • Protein Content: 5g per ounce of salmon
  • Details: Top whole grain crackers with smoked salmon for a protein and omega-3 boost.

22. Black Bean Dip with Veggies

  • Protein Content: 7g per half cup of dip
  • Details: Pair black bean dip with raw veggies for a fiber and protein-rich snack.

23. Tofu Skewers

  • Protein Content: 10g per serving
  • Details: Marinate and grill tofu cubes on skewers with your favorite veggies.

24. Protein Balls

  • Protein Content: 10g per 2 balls
  • Details: Make protein balls using oats, nut butter, protein powder, and a sweetener like honey.

25. Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups

  • Protein Content: 5g per roll-up
  • Details: Roll turkey slices with cheese for a simple, protein-rich snack.

26. Baked Tofu Bites

Photo via gimmesomeoven
  • Protein Content: 10g per serving
  • Details: Bake tofu cubes with your favorite seasonings for a tasty snack.

27. Protein Muffins

  • Protein Content: 10g per muffin
  • Details: Bake muffins using protein powder and other nutritious ingredients.

28. Mixed Nuts and Seeds

  • Protein Content: 6g per ounce
  • Details: A mix of nuts and seeds provides a good balance of protein and healthy fats.

29. Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps

  • Protein Content: 20g per serving
  • Details: Wrap chicken salad in lettuce leaves for a light and protein-rich snack.

30. Pumpkin Seeds

  • Protein Content: 7g per ounce
  • Details: Roasted pumpkin seeds are a crunchy and nutritious snack option.

Conclusion

Incorporating high-protein snacks into your diet is key to maintaining energy, supporting muscle recovery, and enhancing performance. With these 30 snack ideas, you'll stay fueled and satisfied, ready to tackle every run. Enjoy and keep running strong!