Best and Worst Vegan Snacks for Midday Cravings

Are your midday cravings wreaking havoc on your healthy lifestyle? Whether you’re new to veganism or a seasoned plant-based eater, finding the perfect snack can be a challenge.

Here’s our list of the best and worst vegan snacks to satisfy those hunger pangs without derailing your diet…

#1. Hummus and Veggies

Dive into the creamy dreamland of hummus, spruced up with lemon juice and paired with crunchy raw vegetables like peppers or carrots. It’s a B vitamins bash that’s simply unmissable.

#2. Almond-Butter-Stuffed Dried Dates

Almond butter isn’t just for toast; it’s a Swiss army knife of the snack world, ready to transform any bite into a creamy delight.

In this recipe, almond butter takes centre stage as it jazzes up dried dates, turning them into sweet little parcels of joy.

#3. Roasted Chickpeas

For a savoury snack that packs a protein punch, roasted chickpeas are your go-to crunch. These legume lovelies are not just for hummus – roasted chickpeas are a crunchy, protein-packed powerhouse of a snack.

#4. Fruit and Nut Butter

Fruit and nut butter make a filling snack that’s perfect for on-the-go. Try a butter and banana duo for a plant-based protein fix.

From cashew cookie spreads to vegan chocolate delights, there’s a whole world of nut butter – far beyond peanut butter – waiting to turn your snack time into a healthy treat.

#5. Creative Alternatives to Spread

For a twist on traditional snacks, use vegan bread as your canvas and experiment with spreads. From vegan chocolate spreads and tahini to vegan cheeses. Add layers of vegetables or fruits for a crunchy finish to a savoury or sweet snack.

These creative alternatives not only add a new dimension of flavour but also keep your snacking exciting and varied. Enjoy these healthy treats whenever you need a quick and tasty energy boost.

#6. Dark Chocolate and Nuts

Indulge in the bliss of squares of dark chocolate and nuts. Unsweetened varieties offer that perfect balance of indulgence and wholesomeness. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, opt for squares of dark chocolate that satiate without the guilt. 

Look for high cocoa content and unsweetened varieties to reap the antioxidant benefits without added sugars. A few quality squares can satisfy cravings and contribute to your well-being.

#7. Homemade Granola Bars

Homemade granola bars can be a haven for those seeking a snack that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Combine oats, nuts or seeds, dried fruits and a dash of sweetness from natural sources like maple syrup. 

Add in some pumpkin seeds or chia seeds for protein and healthy fats. These homemade treats are perfect for on-the-go munching without the guilt.

#8. No-Bake Energy Balls

For a sweet treat that fuels your day, try no-bake energy balls. Mix oats, nuts, maple syrup and your choice of add-ins to create bite-sized delights. These spherical snacks pack a punch of protein and fibre, offering a delicious way to satisfy your hunger and keep your energy levels up.

#9. Frozen Grapes

Frozen grapes are a refreshing choice to cool down and curb midday cravings. They’re not only tasty but also provide essential nutrients that complement a low glycemic diet. Pop them in the freezer and enjoy a handful for a quick and healthy snack.

#10. Spiced Nuts

Transform plain nuts into a savoury delight with a splash of olive oil and seasonings. Baked until aromatic, these spiced nuts offer a satisfying crunch packed with flavour. They’re an excellent snack for keeping hunger at bay and adding a dash of excitement to your snacking routine.

#11. Guacamole and Crackers or Rice Cakes

Guacamole, the creamy blend of avocados and spices, pairs perfectly with crunchy crackers for a snack that champions healthy eating. Avocados are a powerhouse ingredient that can elevate simple snacks like rice cakes. 

Top them with smashed avocado, a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a handful of puffed rice for a snack. Whether you prefer the nuttiness of brown rice or the lightness of rice cakes, avocados are your best friend for a quick, nutritious bite.

#12. Trail Mix with a Twist

Customise your trail mix with a medley of nuts, seeds and dried fruit for a plant-based snack that’s a rich source of protein. To avoid unwanted salt and oil in the store-bought kind, create your mix and enjoy the heart-healthy fats and energy-boosting ingredients to fuel your day.

#13. Baked Veggie Chips

Veggie chips are a fantastic way to enjoy a variety of nutrients in a crunchy form. Opt for beetroot chips or thinly sliced sweet potato for a snack with staying power. Baking them brings out their natural sweetness and provides a healthier alternative to fried snacks.

#14. Popcorn & Nutritional Yeast

Consider popcorn sprinkled with nutritional yeast. This delightful combo delivers a cheesy flavour without the dairy and it’s brimming with fibre to keep you satisfied. A bowl of this tasty snack can be made in minutes and is perfect for keeping your energy levels steady until your next meal.

#15. Summer Wraps Filled with Fresh Veggies

Imagine biting into a colourful and crunchy wrap, all in just 10 minutes of prep time. Vegan wraps filled with a rainbow of fresh veggies not only provide a wide spectrum of nutrients.

They also offer the convenience and satisfaction of a meal. They’re a fantastic way to enjoy your fruits and veggies while on the move or when your schedule is tight.

#16. Oatmeal With Fruit, Nuts or Seeds

Oatmeal isn’t just a breakfast food; it’s a versatile snack too, especially when paired with fruits, nuts or seeds. This combination not only tastes great. 

It also contributes to a healthy diet, packing omega-3 fatty acids and calcium. It’s a power-packed choice that’s sure to keep you energised and content.

The Worst Vegan Snacks to Avoid

While vegan snacks can be a treasure trove of health benefits, not all are good. Beware of those that are highly processed, loaded with sugars and full of additives and preservatives.

These types of snacks can undermine your health goals and leave you feeling sluggish. Stick to whole, plant-based options for the best nutritional bang for your buck.

#1. Highly Processed Vegan Junk Food

It might be vegan, but if it’s highly processed, it’s best to steer clear. Vegan junk food can still be packed with empty calories and offer little nutritional value. For instance, processed vegan cookies and cakes often contain high amounts of added sugars, detracting from their nutrient profile. 

Instead of reaching for those faux cheese puffs, choose snacks that are close to their natural state and provide your body with the fuel it needs to thrive. Vegan cheese puffs and similar snacks may be dairy-free, but they’re usually high in salt and artificial ingredients.

#2. Sugary Vegan Drinks and Sweets

Those sugary vegan drinks and sweets might tempt you, but they’re a no-go if you want to maintain your energy and health. Laden with sugar, these snacks can cause spikes in your blood sugar levels and lead to a crash, leaving you more fatigued than before. 

Store-bought fruit juices may seem like a natural choice. But they can be loaded with sugar and lack the fibre of the whole fruit. Instead, quench your thirst with water infused with fresh fruits and satisfy your sweet tooth with whole fruits.

#3. Vegan Snacks with Additives and Preservatives

Even vegan snacks can be culprits of additives and preservatives. These chemicals may extend shelf life, but they’re not doing your body any favours. 

Choose snacks with short, recognisable ingredient lists to ensure you’re munching on foods that are as clean and wholesome as possible.

#4. Processed Meat Substitutes

Meat substitute products can be convenient. But, some are highly processed and packed with additives. A fresh homemade tempeh salad will do the trick, instead of vegan “beef” burgers.

#5. Prepacked Energy Bars 

Energy bars might be marketed as healthy. But, check the label — many are just chocolate bars in disguise, with over 100 calories coming from sugar alone. Opt for healthier homemade granola bars packed with flavour and actual beneficial nutrients.

#6. Store-bought Sweet Dairy Alternatives

Snack options like vegan ice cream or milk chocolate alternatives might satisfy your sweet tooth. But, they’re often no better than their non-vegan counterparts in terms of sugar and fat content. There’s a treasure trove of healthier alternatives to satisfy your sweet tooth.

#7. Vegan Pastries Loaded with Refined Sugars

Certain vegan pastries and doughnuts are vegan. But, that doesn’t make them a good choice; they’re typically high in refined sugars and oils. You can always bake your favourite desserts at home – knowing exactly what you are adding.

Balancing Taste, Nutrition and Convenience in Vegan Snacking

Striking the right balance is key. You want a tasty snack that’s also good for you and easy to eat on the go. Think ahead to have a mix of sweet and savoury options at hand that are as delicious as they are nutritious. 

With a bit of planning, you can satisfy your taste buds, nourish your body and fit snacking seamlessly into your busy life.