Discover a vibrant world of delicious and nourishing Whole Food Plant-Based Snacks (WFPB snacks) that will revolutionize your eating habits. Whether you’re fully committed to a plant-based lifestyle or simply looking to incorporate more wholesome, plant-powered options into your day, these vegan snack recipes and ideas are perfect for you. Say goodbye to processed junk and hello to a bounty of flavorful, guilt-free treats. From crunchy roasted chickpeas and nutrient-packed dried fruits to refreshing smoothies and savory kale chips, we’ve curated an extensive collection that caters to every craving and dietary need. Get ready to elevate your snacking game with options that are both easy to make and readily available to buy.
“What an amazing collection of great ideas!”
– Susannah
Embracing easy vegan snacks doesn’t mean compromising on taste or resorting to unhealthy processed alternatives like sugary cookies. The healthy plant-based snacks featured here are all crafted from whole, unprocessed ingredients. You’ll discover a fantastic array of options, whether you’re searching for vegan snacks for kids, energizing fuel for athletes, supportive choices for those aiming to lose weight, or simply delicious bites for anyone seeking a healthier lifestyle.
All our recommended vegan savory snacks and vegan sweet snacks highlight one or more of these foundational whole food plant-based categories:
- Fruits: Naturally sweet and packed with vitamins.
- Vegetables: Versatile, nutrient-dense, and often crunchy.
- Legumes: Excellent sources of protein and fiber for sustained energy.
- Nuts and Seeds: Healthy fats, protein, and satisfying crunch.
- Whole Grains: Complex carbohydrates for steady energy release.
In many modern diets, there’s often an insufficient intake of these vital whole foods, coupled with an overconsumption of added sugars and refined grains. By making smarter snack choices, we can effectively rebalance our diets, boost our nutrient intake, and still thoroughly enjoy every bite. Let’s dive into some incredible WFPB snack ideas that are as good for you as they are delicious!
🌱 Creative WFPB Snack Recipes You’ll Love
Ready to get inspired in the kitchen? Here are some of the best whole food plant-based snack recipes, ranging from simple fruit preparations to savory veggie-based delights. Each recipe focuses on using minimally processed ingredients to give you maximum flavor and nutrition.
Air Fryer Banana Chips (How to Dehydrate Bananas in Air Fryer)
Check it out here
Oyster Mushroom Jerky Recipe (Vegan Air Fryer Jerky)
Check it out here
Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi Air Fryer Recipe
Check it out here
Strawberry Banana Nice Cream
Check it out here
Sugar Free Mango Ice Cream Recipe (Ice Cream Alternative)
Check it out here
Watermelon Lime Smoothie (Watermelon Mint Smoothie Recipe)
Check it out here
Roasted Garbanzo Beans Recipe (Air Fryer Chickpeas Snacks)
Check it out here
Ninja Air Fryer Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans Time and Temp)
Check it out here
Nut-Free Trail Mix Recipe
Check it out here
Keto Berry Smoothie (Vegan Keto Smoothie Recipe)
Check it out here
Watermelon Mango Popsicles Recipe with Pineapple
Check it out here
High Calorie Popsicles (Mango Popsicles for Weight Gain)
Check it out here
Dehydrated Cinnamon Apples (Dehydrated Cinnamon Apple Chips)
Check it out here
Garlic Kale Chips (Vampire Killer Kale Chips Recipe for Dehydrator)
Check it out here
Air Fryer Frozen Plantains (Maduros or Tostones)
Check it out here
The Power of Whole Foods for Your Health
Many fruits and vegetables are exceptional sources of essential nutrients, including Vitamin C, potassium, and folate. These vitamins and minerals play crucial roles in maintaining various bodily functions. For instance, Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that significantly supports our immune system, helping us stay healthy. Potassium, on the other hand, is vital for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels, contributing to cardiovascular wellness.
Beyond their direct nutrient content, the Vitamin C found in fruits and vegetables also enhances our body’s ability to absorb plant-based iron. This is a particularly important benefit for individuals following vegan or vegetarian diets, ensuring they get the most out of their iron-rich plant foods.
Moreover, fruits and vegetables are rich in dietary fiber. Fiber is instrumental in lowering LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels and promoting optimal digestive function, contributing to a healthy gut microbiome. It’s important to remember that these fiber benefits primarily come from whole plant foods; most commercial juices strip away much of this valuable fiber, leaving behind concentrated sugars.
The natural sweetness of many fruits makes them perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth, offering a healthy and delightful option for vegan snacking. Their grab-and-go nature also makes them incredibly convenient when you need a quick, healthy bite.
Legumes, such as beans, peas, and lentils (including chickpeas), are unique because they can contribute to both your vegetable and protein intake. Like fruits and veggies, they provide ample fiber, folate, and potassium, making them incredibly nutritious. Unlike most vegetables, however, chickpeas stand out as a significant source of plant-based protein, making them excellent choices for satisfying and crunchy vegan snacks.
P.S. Don’t miss our special recipe for delicious WFPB cookies at the end of the article! They’re designed to satisfy your sweet cravings without relying on maple syrup or other added sugars, embodying the true spirit of whole food plant-based eating.
🍎 Easy Store-Bought Whole Food Plant-Based Snacks
Sometimes, time is a luxury you don’t have for cooking. For those moments, having a list of reliable easy whole food plant-based snacks to buy can be a lifesaver. While some of these “Whole Foods snacks” might seem pricier, remember that you can often find similar plant-based snack brands at more budget-friendly stores like Walmart, Aldi, or Costco.
Top Store-Bought WFPB Snack Suggestions:
- Fresh Fruit Tray: Conveniently pre-cut and ready to eat. (Fresh vegetable trays are also excellent, but double-check dips for non-vegan ingredients like ranch.)
- Bare Dried Apple Chips: Simple, crunchy, and made from just apples, these are a naturally sweet and satisfying option.
- Solely Mango Fruit Jerky: A chewy, flavorful snack made from 100% real mango, offering a tropical burst of flavor without any added sugars.
- Rhythm Beet Chips: Thinly sliced and lightly seasoned beets baked to a crisp, providing a savory and earthy crunch.
- Love Beets Marinated Baby Beets: Pre-cooked and ready to enjoy, these offer a tender and slightly tangy savory snack.
- Gimme Organic Roasted Seaweed: Light, airy, and seasoned with sea salt, these crispy sheets are a unique and umami-rich snack.
- Biena Roasted Chickpea Snacks: Crunchy, protein-packed chickpeas seasoned to perfection, offering a savory alternative to chips.
- Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: A fantastic source of healthy fats, protein, and minerals, with a satisfying crunch.
- Pico de Gallo Salsa (with tortilla chips): Fresh and vibrant salsa pairs perfectly with whole-grain tortilla chips for a classic savory combo.
- Peanut Butter Packets: Convenient, portable, and energy-dense. You can also opt for almond butter, sunflower butter, or any other favorite nut or seed butter.
When searching for whole food plant-based snacks for kids, or for anyone who enjoys a satisfying crunch with their dip, fresh vegetables and fruits often make a welcome choice. Beyond traditional crackers and potato chips, there are countless healthy dippers you can pair with your favorite plant-based spreads like hummus or black bean dip. These options not only add nutrition but also exciting textures to your snacking experience.
Here are some of our favorite vegan foods to enjoy with dips:
- Apple slices: A sweet and crisp companion to nut butters or even a savory hummus.
- Pear slices: Soft, juicy, and naturally sweet, great with creamy dips.
- Sweet bell pepper strips: Colorful, crunchy, and high in Vitamin C, perfect for a fresh dip.
- Jicama sticks: Offer a unique watery crunch and a subtle sweetness.
- Celery sticks: A classic crunchy vehicle for dips, providing a refreshing taste.
- Baby carrots: Naturally sweet and firm, a go-to for many dips.
- Sugar snap peas: Crisp, sweet, and fun to munch on.
- Cucumber slices: Hydrating and refreshing, ideal for lighter dips.
- Radishes: Offer a peppery bite, adding a zing to milder dips.
- Whole grain pretzels: Provide a salty, satisfying crunch for savory dips.
- Whole grain pasta chips: A creative and hearty alternative to traditional chips.
✈️ Convenient Plant-Based Snacks for Life on the Go
Life can be busy, and sometimes you need WFPB snacks on the go that are both convenient and nutritious. Whether you’re packing plant-based snacks for work or planning vegan snacks for travel, having a ready list of portable options is key to staying on track with your healthy eating goals. Here are 10 excellent travel-friendly snacks for your next road trip, commute, or busy day:
- Dairy-Free Popcorn: A classic whole-grain snack that’s light and satisfying. (Or explore some excellent Popcorn Substitute Ideas for variety.)
- Brami Lupini Beans Snack: These Mediterranean legumes are pickled and ready to eat, offering a protein-rich and fiber-packed savory snack.
- Dry Roasted Edamame: The perfect salty, crunchy vegan snack, providing a good source of plant protein and fiber.
- Individual Serving Cups of Black Olives: A surprisingly satisfying and salty snack for olive lovers, rich in healthy fats.
- Raw Superfoods Trail Mix: A powerful blend of energy-boosting ingredients. You can also easily make your own with components like raisins, walnuts, cashews, chia seeds, and even a few vegan chocolate chips for a sweet touch.
- LaraBar Fruit and Nut Bars: These simple bars are made with minimal, recognizable ingredients, often just fruits and nuts, making them a great WFPB choice.
- DANG Toasted Coconut Chips: Crunchy, naturally sweet, and savory, these chips offer a delightful texture and tropical flavor.
- Hummus or Black Bean Dip with Veggie Sticks: Pre-portioned dips paired with carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips make a balanced and filling snack.
- Flackers Flax Seed Crackers: Crispy crackers made primarily from flax seeds, offering a good source of omega-3s and fiber.
- Gluten Free Avocado Crisps: A unique and savory snack that offers a satisfying crunch with the goodness of avocado.
Other portable WFPB ideas include homemade vegan energy balls or bites (excellent for a sustained energy boost without coffee), whole-food snack bars, and certain cereals. While many conventional cereals like Cheerios are often fortified but not strictly WFPB due to processing, you can find vegan-friendly whole-grain cereals or create your own delightful air fryer granola to snack on.
Frequently Asked Questions About WFPB Snacks
What are some good plant-based snacks for weight loss?
If your goal is weight loss on a WFPB diet, focusing on snacks rich in protein and fiber is key for satiety. Fiber-packed fruits and vegetables, like apple slices, berries, celery sticks, and bell pepper strips, are excellent plant-based snacks for weight loss because they are low in calories but high in volume and nutrients. For a protein boost, legumes such as roasted chickpeas or edamame are among the best whole food sources of plant-based protein, helping you feel fuller for longer and reduce overall calorie intake.
Why am I so hungry on a whole food plant-based diet?
If you find yourself constantly hungry on a WFPB diet, it’s important to ensure your meal plan is well-balanced with adequate protein, fiber, healthy fats, and sufficient calories. Vegan diets can sometimes be lower in protein if not carefully planned. Excellent sources of plant-based protein to incorporate into your meals and snacks include tofu, tempeh, soymilk, edamame, chickpeas, black beans, seitan, and lentils. Ensure you’re not overly restricting calories and that your meals are satisfying, rich in fiber-rich whole grains, and healthy fats from avocados, nuts, and seeds.
What are the best easy whole food plant-based snacks?
For convenient, grab-and-go vegan snacks, prioritize fresh fruits (like apples, bananas, berries), raw vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers), dried fruits (without added sugar), roasted chickpeas or edamame, roasted nuts and seeds, and whole-grain crackers. These options require minimal preparation and offer a good balance of nutrients. If your aim is healthy weight gain, integrate more calorie-dense options such as nut butters (peanut butter, almond butter), seed crackers, and more substantial dried fruit portions into your daily snack routine.
Are eggs OK on a plant-based diet?
The term “plant-based” can have varying interpretations. If you are following a strict 100% plant-based diet (often synonymous with veganism), then eggs, along with dairy products, meat, and other animal-derived foods, are not permitted. However, for many, “plant-based” simply means prioritizing plants in their diet while still occasionally consuming some animal products. In this broader definition, eggs could be included. Ultimately, how you define “plant-based” for yourself determines whether eggs fit into your dietary pattern, as it is not a strictly defined medical diet.
What chips can you eat on a plant-based diet?
If your plant-based diet adheres to vegan principles, you should avoid chips containing cheese, whey, or other dairy ingredients (like many popular flavored corn or potato chips). Fortunately, there are many delicious vegan-friendly chip options! Look for plain corn chips (e.g., Fritos), classic potato chips (like Lay’s original), or sweet potato chips, which are often naturally vegan. Always check the ingredients list for hidden animal products. Enhance their flavor and nutritional value by pairing them with a tasty plant-based dip, such as a homemade salsa or a creamy cashew dip.
Can you eat popcorn on a whole food plant-based diet?
Yes, absolutely! Popcorn is considered a whole grain and is perfectly acceptable on a WFPB diet. When prepared without excessive added oils, butter, or artificial flavors, it’s a naturally low-calorie, high-volume food that can be incredibly satisfying. Air-popped popcorn, seasoned with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or a dash of your favorite spices, makes for a fantastic and guilt-free WFPB snack.
Watch How to Make It!
30+ WFPB Snacks (Whole Food Plant Based Snacks) Vegan
By Summer Yule
Print Recipe
Pin Recipe
15
15
Snack
American
8
169
kcal
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats, dry
- 1 cup mashed ripe banana (3-4 bananas)
- ½ cup shredded carrot
- ½ cup grated apple (no need to peel)
- ¼ cup chopped hazelnuts
- ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- ¼ cup unsweetened dried cherries
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons cacao nibs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a dark metal baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mash the bananas, grate the apple and carrot, and chop the hazelnuts.
- Combine all ingredients thoroughly in a medium-sized mixing bowl.
- Using a ¼-cup measuring cup, drop scoops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. You will end up with eight scoops. Flatten them slightly into a cookie shape with wet hands. They don’t spread, so no worries if the cookies are close together on the sheet.
- Place the baking sheet about ⅓ of the way from the top of the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes until the cookies are firm enough to hold together. Let the cookies cool before eating to give them more time to firm up.
Notes
What is the difference between vegan and plant-based diet?
Some people use “vegan” and “plant-based” interchangeably. However, most dietitians define “vegan” as a diet completely devoid of animal-based foods. In contrast, “plant-based” generally refers to a diet primarily composed of plants, which may (or may not) include small amounts of animal products.
The strictest version of WFPB also advocates for an oil-free approach, a stance many dietitians do not fully support. Incorporating some added oils, like olive oil, can often make healthy vegan snacks more palatable and enjoyable, encouraging greater adherence to a plant-rich diet. (Similarly, a touch of natural sugar, as found in delicious recipes like the Forks Over Knives Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies or their Marble Pudding dessert, can significantly enhance the experience.)
nutrition info disclaimer
All recipes on this website may or may not be appropriate for you, depending on your medical needs and personal preferences. Consult with a registered dietitian or your physician if you need help determining the dietary pattern that may be best for you.
The nutrition information is an estimate provided as a courtesy. It will differ depending on the specific brands and ingredients that you use. Calorie information on food labels may be inaccurate, so please don’t sweat the numbers too much.
“To taste” means to your preferences, which may have to be visual to follow food safety rules. Please don’t eat undercooked food.
Nutrition
Calories:
169kcal
Carbohydrates:
27.6g
Protein:
3g
Fat:
6g
Saturated Fat:
3.1g
Potassium:
274.9mg
Fiber:
4.5g
Vitamin A:
28.5% DV
Vitamin C:
9.3% DV
Calcium:
4.9% DV
Iron:
5.4% DV
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