Whether it's evening or middle of the night, a craving can make its way at any time! But you can’t just eat anything, especially if you are trying to lose weight. While there are multiple ways to satisfy the cravings in a healthy way, you can also try some delicious and easy vegan snack recipes for weight loss.

From protein-rich energy snacks to crispy roasted chickpeas, these recipes will keep you full, energised and help you shed extra pounds as well. With these recipes at your fingertips, you will never have to pick between taste and health goals again. So, ditch the processed snacks and get ready to explore a world of delicious vegan snack recipes that will help you to lose weight effectively and conveniently.

7 tasty and healthy vegan snack recipes for weight loss

Here are some of the best healthy and delicious vegan snack recipes to help you lose weight, as explained by nutritionist Haripriya N:

1. Hummus and veggie sticks

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of chickpeas (canned or cooked)
• 2 tablespoons of tahini
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Assorted vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, celery)

Method:

• In a food processor, blend chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil until smooth.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Serve hummus with vegetable sticks.

Making time: 10 minutes

Hummus and celery are healthy food choices for weight loss. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

2. Avocado toast

Ingredients:

• 1 avocado
• 2 slices of whole-grain bread
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, red pepper flakes, lemon juice

Method:

• Toast the bread slices.
• Mash the avocado and spread it on the toast.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Add optional toppings if desired.

Making time: 5 minutes

3. Chia seed pudding

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup of chia seeds
• 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or agave (optional)
• Fresh fruit for topping

Method:

• In a bowl, mix chia seeds, almond milk, vanilla extract, and sweetener.
• Stir well and refrigerate overnight.
• Top with fresh fruit before serving.

Making time: 5 minutes (plus overnight refrigeration)

4. Baked kale chips

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch of kale
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• Salt to taste

Method:

• Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Wash and dry the kale, removing the stems and tearing the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
• Toss the kale with olive oil and salt.
• Spread the kale on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until crisp.

Making time: 20 minutes

5. Roasted chickpeas

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• Salt to taste

Method:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Pat the chickpeas dry with a paper towel.
• Toss chickpeas with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
• Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until crispy.

Making Time: 30 minutes

6. Fruit and nut energy balls

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of dates (pitted)
• 1/2 cup of almonds
• 1/2 cup of cashews
• 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon of chia seeds

Method:

• In a food processor, blend dates, almonds, cashews, cocoa powder, and chia seeds until the mixture sticks together.
• Roll the mixture into small balls.
• Store in the refrigerator.

Making time: 10 minutes

7. Stuffed mini bell peppers

Ingredients:

• 10 mini bell peppers
• 1 cup of hummus
• Fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro) for garnish

Method:

• Cut the tops off the mini bell peppers and remove seeds.
• Fill each pepper with hummus.
• Garnish with fresh herbs.

Making time: 10 minutes

How vegan snack recipes can help you lose weight?

Vegan snack recipes can be beneficial for weight loss for several reasons, as found in a study published in the Frontiers Nutrition Journal.

1. Low calorie density

Calorie density also plays a role in weight loss. It refers to the amount of calories in a given weight of food. Plant-based foods tend to be less calorie-dense than animal products. This means you can eat a larger volume of vegan food for the same number of calories, which can help manage hunger and stick to your weight loss goals.

2. High fibre content

Fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains are rich in fibre, which helps you feel full longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating. Thus, start having vegan snacks that are high in fibre, which helps you feel fuller for longer. This can help you eat less overall and reduce your calorie intake.

3. Nutrient-dense

Vegan snacks are typically packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which support overall health and well-being. Thus, vegan snack not only helps you lose weight but it is also rich in nutrients that one requires to stay fit and healthy.

4. Low in saturated fats

Vegan diets are generally low in saturated fats, which can help reduce overall calorie intake and promote heart health. The method of cooking also alters the fat content in the meal, correct usage of oil is crucial.

Who should avoid vegan snack recipes for weight loss?

While vegan snacks can be healthy and beneficial for many, some individuals may need to avoid or modify them:

1. Individuals with food allergies or sensitivities

Many vegan snacks include nuts and seeds, which can be problematic for those with nut and seed allergies. Some vegan snacks contain soy products, which should be avoided by those allergic to soy.

2. People with specific nutritional needs

Athletes or individuals with high protein needs may need to ensure they are getting enough protein from other sources if relying heavily on vegan snacks. Some individuals may struggle to get sufficient iron from a vegan diet and should monitor their intake.

3. Individuals with digestive issues

Those with digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), may need to be cautious with high-fibre snacks.

Be careful of recipes that could give you digestive issues. Image courtesy: Freepik

4. People with certain medical conditions

Individuals with chronic kidney disease may need to limit their intake of certain plant-based proteins and potassium-rich foods.

5. Pregnant and breastfeeding women:

While vegan diets can be safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is crucial to ensure a balanced intake of all necessary nutrients. Consulting with a dietitian is recommended for any change of diet and dietary habits.

Overall, vegan snacks can be a great addition to a weight loss plan, but it is important to consider individual health needs and potential dietary restrictions. Always consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating these vegan snacks into your diet.

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