As Bon Appétit’s resident snackers (conveniently seated across from each other in the office), we spend a lot of time passing snacks over our monitors between writing sessions and meetings. At this point we know a thing or two about healthy snacks—as nebulous as the term “healthy” may be. We’re constantly on the lookout for little treats between meals that also feel satiating and nutrient-rich, but are more exciting than an apple or a handful of nuts.
Of course, we also want snacks that taste really good—the kind of snacks that tempt us to eat the entire bag in one sitting. Sometimes that means nut-butter-filled dates, while other times, what we really want is a bag of sweet potato chips. In general, we reach for healthy snacks with protein (from nuts, beans, or meat), healthy fats, and fiber.
Could you make your own healthy snacks, like these nut butter granola bars? Yes. But sometimes you just want a quick bite that requires absolutely no effort. Everything on this list is store-bought, and since the market for healthy snacks is constantly growing, we’ll be trying all the newest ones and updating this list on a seasonal basis. Read on to see our favorite healthy snacks for spring, or scroll down to see our all-time favorites.
Summer Favorites
Mamame Tempeh Chips
I was a tempeh skeptic until I tried a coconut tempeh larb in the Test Kitchen. Tempeh, a plant-based protein traditionally made from fermented soybeans, lends an earthy, nutty flavor and meaty texture to dishes. After enjoying the larb, I was excited to try Mamame’s Tempeh Chips.
Instead of soybeans, Mamame uses fermented black-eyed peas to create thin chips, then fries the slices in coconut oil, which adds a subtle coconutty aroma and taste. The result is a chip that’s just as filling (there are three grams of protein for every 12 chips or 10 grams per bag) as it is fun to snack on.
Out of the brand’s four flavors—original, sea salt, rosemary, and hot chili—I opt for the sea salt flavor, which is still seasoned generously with sea salt and garlic. —Kate Kassin
Daily Crunch
My snacking tendencies can probably best be described as “squirrel-like”; I’m constantly munching on handfuls of granola, seedy crackers, and nuts. Recently, my squirrel snack of choice has been the sprouted almonds from Daily Crunch. Sprouting supposedly makes them easier to digest (I can’t confirm or deny), but it also hollows them out, which makes them extra crunchy—and that I can get behind. They’re available in six flavors ranging from Nashville Hot to Cacao + Sea Salt. My fave is the Dill Pickle, which has almonds, pepitas, and actual dried pickles in it. —Alaina Chou
Sunnie Crackers
Sunnie makes grain- and nut-free crackers with just a few ingredients: cassava flour,
