Lenny and Larrys
You're probably used to thinking of snacks as guilty pleasures, salty, sweet, or crunchy bites that hit the spot but leave you second-guessing your choices.
However, some options satisfy cravings while delivering real nutritional benefits. These are snacks that look indulgent but are packed with ingredients like protein, fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats.
Check out some of today's delicious (and healthy) snacks you can enjoy without worrying about the LBs going up.
Update your snack stash with these options that support your health goals and keep your taste buds happy.
Ten Snacks That are Surprisingly Good for you
1. Matcha-Seasoned Popcorn
You can transform ordinary air-popped popcorn into a nutrient-packed snack by adding matcha powder, which brings a gentle dose of antioxidants and a naturally earthy sweetness. Pop your kernels with no oil (or minimal oil), then toss them lightly with a mix of matcha and a pinch of sea salt. This combo gives you a crunchy, satisfying snack far lower in calories than butter-laden versions. For added flavor, you can sprinkle in a little coconut sugar or drizzle with a tiny bit of honey, but the key is keeping it light to retain the balance of taste and health.
2. Fruit Juice Gummies with Added Fiber
Homemade fruit juice gummies are a fun, chewy alternative to store-bought candy (and you control exactly what goes into creating them). Combine fresh or no-sugar-added fruit juice with gelatin or agar to set the texture, then boost the nutritional value by stirring in chia seeds or a touch of a fiber supplement like inulin powder. Pour the mixture into silicone molds and refrigerate until firm. These gummies give you a sweet treat with no artificial colors or excess sugars often found in commercial varieties, and you can customize flavors to suit your taste.
3. Greek Yogurt with Mixed Nuts and Berries
Layering creamy Greek yogurt with a handful of unsalted mixed nuts and a sprinkle of fresh or frozen berries creates a snack packed with protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants. Opt for plain or low-sugar yogurt to avoid added sugars, then top it with chopped almonds, walnuts, or pistachios for a satisfying crunch. Add fresh blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries to bring a natural sweetness and extra vitamins. Thanks to the yogurt's probiotics, this snack keeps you full for longer and supports gut health.
4. Protein Pretzels = FITZELS™
Lenny & Larry's protein pretzels are made for health-seeking snack lovers craving a crunch with a protein boost. Fitzels™ packs in plant-based protein, giving you around 12 grams per serving. They're baked, not fried, and prepared to deliver that satisfying pretzel taste you love in incredibly delicious flavors.
5. Coconut-Covered Cashews
Coating cashews in a light coconut layer adds texture and a boost of healthy fats. Start with raw or lightly roasted cashews and toss them with a small amount of melted dark or white chocolate, then roll them in unsweetened coconut flakes. Let them chill on a parchment-lined tray until set. The result is a lightly sweet, nutrient-dense snack that delivers magnesium, healthy fats, and just a touch of indulgence. Experiment with your cashews by adding a cinnamon or cocoa powder sprinkle for extra flavor layers.
6. Sesame and Sea Salt Energy Balls
These no-bake energy balls come together quickly and offer a savory twist on the usual sweet varieties. Blend a mix of nuts, seeds (especially sesame), and a natural sweetener like dates or honey until you get a sticky dough. Add sea salt to enhance the flavors, roll into bite-sized balls, and chill. You'll have a satisfying snack with protein, fiber, and minerals like calcium and magnesium from the sesame seeds. These are perfect for meal prep since you can make a batch in advance and store them in the fridge for a weekly grab-and-go option.
7. Dried Fruit with Exotic Spices
Plain dried fruit is good, but adding exotic spices makes it exciting and even healthier. Take slices of unsweetened dried mango, pineapple, or jackfruit and toss them lightly with spices like chili powder, turmeric, or lime zest. This adds a tangy or spicy kick, offering anti-inflammatory benefits and extra flavor complexity. Not only do you skip the added sugars often found in packaged dried fruits, but you also get a customizable snack that pairs well with nuts or seeds for a balanced mix of sweet, savory, and heat.
8. Crispy Seaweed Chips
Making your own seaweed chips at home is easier than you think. Brush sheets of nori (the kind used for sushi) with a bit of sesame or olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt or a spice blend and bake them at a low temperature until they turn light and crispy. These chips produce a satisfying crunch, are rich in iodine and minerals, and are low in calories. You can add flavors like wasabi powder, smoked paprika, or garlic for variety, making these a perfect alternative to high-fat potato chips.
9. Quinoa and Popcorn Trail Mix
Mixing air-popped popcorn with puffed quinoa and lightly spiced or roasted nuts creates an incredible trail mix!
It's packed with protein. The quinoa adds a nutty, crispy texture and boosts the protein and fiber content, while the popcorn keeps it light and airy. Toss the mixture with some smoked paprika, nutritional yeast, or even a hint of chili powder for a savory kick. It's a great snack to pack for road trips, work, or movie nights.
10. Spiced Pistachios or Mixed Nuts
Roasting nuts at home with bold spices transforms a simple snack into something special. Start with raw pistachios, almonds, or cashews, toss them with olive oil and seasonings like jalapeño-lime, smoked paprika, curry powder, or rosemary, and roast until golden.
Healthy Snacks You'll Want to Make Again and Again
You now have a solid list of unexpectedly healthy and quick homemade snacks that combine flavor, nutrition, and convenience. These options help you skip the artificial additives, extra sugars, and preservatives often found in packaged products, letting you enjoy real, whole ingredients.
Whether you crave something crunchy, sweet, savory, or spicy, a snack here supports your health goals without sacrificing taste.
Some additional grab-n-go, plant-based snack ideas »