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30 Minutes or Less

High Protein Snack Boxes (4 ways!)

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Back to basics high protein snack box with fresh strawberries, boiled eggs, cheese, and almonds.

I’ve been itching to develop more high protein snack recipes. So when I set out to create these snack boxes, I knew just who to call! My friend Natalia (find her on Instagram as @nutritionbynarlie) is the protein QUEEN. She’s also the most knowledgable person I know when it comes to nutrition. She helped me build the most well-rounded, nutrient dense, and high protein snack boxes possible. Each of these boxes contain a whopping 25 grams of protein! And don’t worry, we personally taste-tested every single box, and can vouch for their deliciousness. I really think you’re going to LOVE these high protein snack boxes that we put together!

overhead image of all four high protein snack boxes, each containing 25 grams of protein.

I purchased these meal prep glass containers on Amazon, linked HERE!

Which High Protein Snack Box is Right For You?

Back to Basics: This classic combination is simple yet effective. Boiled eggs provide a substantial protein boost, while almonds and cheddar cheese add extra protein and healthy fats. The berries offer a refreshing burst of antioxidants and natural sweetness.

Greek: Inspired by Greek cuisine, this box features salami and feta cheese for a savory protein punch. Greek yogurt pairs perfectly with cucumber and dill for a refreshing snack, while pistachios and figs add a delightful mix of crunch and sweetness.

American: This American-themed box combines turkey, Swiss cheese, and a pickle for a flavorful and protein-packed roll-up. The kettle corn popcorn and peanuts bring a nostalgic Crackerjack vibe, while the orange slices add a citrusy zing!

Dairy-Free: For those avoiding dairy, this box offers a delicious mix of hummus with gluten-free crackers, salami, turkey, almonds, and apple slices. It’s a well-rounded option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition!

back to basics high protein snack box
greek themed high protein snack box
american themed high protein snack box
dairy-free high protein snack box

Tips and Tricks

  • Save time during the week by preparing your high-protein snacks in advance. Boil eggs, slice veggies, and portion out nuts and cheese on the weekend so you can easily assemble your snack boxes each morning.
  • Keep things interesting by rotating different protein sources and accompaniments. This prevents snack fatigue and ensures you’re getting a range of nutrients.
  • Use small containers or silicone muffin cups to portion out your snacks. This helps you keep track of serving sizes and prevents overeating.
hand holding up Greek themed high protein snack box

Additional High Protein Snack Ideas

Looking to switch things up? Here are some other high-protein snacks that can be swapped into your boxes:

Cottage Cheese: A ½ cup serving contains about 14 grams of protein.
Protein Bars: Choose bars with at least 10 grams of protein and minimal added sugars.
Jerky: Beef, turkey, or chicken jerky provides a portable protein punch, with about 10 grams of protein per ounce.
Edamame: One cup of edamame contains about 17 grams of protein, making it a fantastic plant-based option.
Tuna Packs: A single serving tuna pack can offer up to 20 grams of protein, perfect for a quick and easy addition.

overhead image of the dairy-free high protein snack box
5 from 1 vote

High Protein Snack Boxes (4 ways!)

These high-protein snack boxes are perfectly balanced with protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs, making them an ideal choice for anyone on the go. Each box contains a whopping 25 grams of protein, ensuring you stay fuller and more satisfied for longer. Whether you’re heading to work, school, or the gym, these snack boxes will keep you energized and ready to tackle whatever comes your way.
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Ingredients

Back to Basics Snack Box

  • 2 boiled eggs
  • 1 ounce almonds
  • 1 ounce cheddar cheese, cubed
  • small handful fresh berries

Greek Snack Box

  • 3 slices salami, or Loza
  • 1 ounce feta cheese, cubed
  • 3 ounces Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
  • 1 ounce shelled pistachios
  • 2 figs, sliced in half

American Snack Box

  • 1 pickle
  • 1 ounce sliced turkey
  • 1 slice Swiss cheese
  • 1 ounce kettle corn popcorn
  • 1 ounce shelled peanuts
  • 1/2 orange, sliced

Dairy-Free Snack Box

  • 3 ounces hummus
  • 6-8 gluten-free crackers
  • 3 slices salami
  • 1 ounce sliced turkey
  • 1 ounce almonds
  • 1/2 apple, sliced

Instructions

  • Choose which snack box you’d like to make and prepare all ingredients.
  • Then, place ingredients into snack containers.
  • Seal the containers and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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30 Minutes or Less

Mexican Street Corn Salad

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overhead image of Mexican street corn salad in a large serving dish with fresh cilantro on the side.

It’s CORN! Summer bbq season is upon us, and we need a side dish for our watermelon margaritas, mediterranean grilled chicken salad, and healthy summer fruit crisp. Add this simple and delicious Mexican street corn salad to that lineup and you’ve got yourself a killer summer meal!

This recipe’s specifically for those people who enjoy their corn off the cob. It’s all the incredible flavors of Mexican street corn added to one big bowl, perfect for sharing and much easier to eat! Fresh (or frozen) corn, cilantro, paprika, and cotija cheese come together to make this super flavorful and surprisingly healthy salad.

Ingredients laid out for Mexican street corn salad recipe.

What You’ll Need to Make Mexican Street Corn Salad

Corn: Fresh corn is recommended, but if it’s not in season you can use frozen corn instead! And if you opt for fresh corn, follow the instructions below on how to cut the corn off the cob before using it in this recipe.

Fresh Cilantro: Finely chopped cilantro adds a refreshing burst of herbaceous flavor to the salad, complementing the other ingredients beautifully.

Cotija or Feta Cheese: Crumbled cotija cheese lends a salty, tangy flavor to the salad, while feta cheese can be used as a delicious alternative.

Jalapeño: For a spicy kick, add finely chopped jalapeño to the salad. Omit or adjust the amount according to your heat preference.

Mayonnaise: Creamy mayonnaise binds the ingredients together and adds richness to the salad, while also balancing the flavors.

close up image of Mexican street corn salad in a bowl.

How to Cut Corn Off The Cob

  1. Shuck the corn by peeling off the outer leaves and removing as much of the tassel (the stringy stuff) from the corn as possible.
  2. Stand the corn upright on a cutting board, then carefully slide a knife down one side of the cob, slicing off the corn kernels as the knife moves down the cob. Continue this process all around the cob until all corn kernels have been removed.
  3. Place the corn kernels in a large bowl, then repeat steps 1 and 2 with remaining ears of corn until all corn kernels have been removed. Discard the corn cobs and use just the kernels in this recipe.

Tips and Tricks

Char the Corn: Achieve the perfect smoky flavor by char-grilling the corn kernels in a hot skillet. Stir occasionally to ensure even charring and caramelization. Or, if you can grill whole corn, then remove the charred corn kernels from the cob and use it in this salad.

Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño according to your preference for heat. For milder palates, use just half a jalapeño, or no jalapeño at all!

Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the salad ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to serve. The longer this salad sits, the more flavorful it will get!

Mexican street corn salad in a bowl with fresh limes.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

Make it Dairy-Free: To make this salad dairy-free, use your favorite non-dairy feta instead of cotija cheese. I’ve used and love this Violife dairy-free feta.

Make it Vegan: For a vegan Mexican street corn salad, take the dairy-free option above and use vegan mayo in place of the regular mayo.

overhead image of Mexican street corn salad in a large serving dish with fresh cilantro on the side.
5 from 1 vote

Mexican Street Corn Salad

This Mexican street corn salad is the perfect addition to any summer meal! It’s fresh, delicious, packed with flavor, and surprisingly easy to make.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 ears fresh corn, shucked and kernels removed (or 2 10-ounce bags frozen corn)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup scallions (green onion), sliced
  • 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese or feta cheese
  • 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • zest and juice of 1 lime
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder, or chipotle chili powder

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat until the oil is shimmering. Add corn kernels to the skillet (fresh or frozen) and a pinch of salt. Cook corn for about 10 minutes, stirring about every 2 minutes, until it’s nicely charred.
    Mexican street corn salad step 1
  • Remove corn from the heat and add to a large bowl. Add all remaining ingredients to the bowl with the corn. Toss to combine, then give it a taste and adjust any seasoning as desired.

Notes

  • Either serve this Mexican street corn salad immediately, or cover the bowl and store it in the fridge for up to 8 hours before serving!
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    30 Minutes or Less

    Whipped Feta Crostini Recipe – 3 ways!

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    overhead close up image of whipped feta crostini.

    This whipped feta crostini recipe is a flavor-packed, bite-sized wonder that’ll steal the spotlight at your next holiday party! Perfectly toasted crostini and a tangy whipped feta, topped three different ways. This easy appetizer recipe is a total crowd-pleaser!

    whipped feta crostini 3 ways on a plate with wine and fresh thyme on the side.

    What You’ll Need to Make Whipped Feta Crostini

    Baguette (1-inch slices): The crunchy canvas for your culinary masterpiece. Go for a good-quality baguette that will hold up to the whipped feta goodness. Or use a gluten-free baguette for an entirely gluten-free appetizer.

    Feta: The star of the show! Opt for a high-quality feta for that perfect blend of creaminess and tanginess. I use and recommend this barrel-aged feta.

    Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt adds a touch of smoothness to the whipped feta. It’s the secret ingredient for that irresistible texture.

    Good Quality Olive Oil: A drizzle of liquid gold to tie it all together. Don’t skimp on the olive oil; it’s the finishing touch that elevates this crostini recipe. I use and love this Graza Olive Oil in my whipped feta!

    close-up image of whipped feta crostini.

    Tips and Tricks

    • Whip It Good: When blending the feta and yogurt, let the mixer work its magic. Whip until the texture is smooth and creamy. You want that dreamy consistency that spreads like a cloud on your crostini.
    • Get Ahead of the Game: This recipe is a winner for planning ahead. Whip the feta mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Toast the baguette slices separately. When it’s party time, assemble the crostini with a dollop of whipped feta right before serving.
    • Top it Off Creatively: Let your creativity shine by trying different toppings. Pomegranate seeds and honey add a burst of sweetness, while sliced pears, walnuts, and honey provide a perfect blend of textures. For a classic touch, go with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky salt – my favorite!
    overhead close up image of whipped feta crostini.
    5 from 1 vote

    Whipped Feta Crostini – 3 ways!

    This whipped feta crostini is a flavor-packed, bite-sized wonder that’ll steal the spotlight at your next holiday party! Perfectly toasted crostini and a tangy whipped feta, topped three different ways. This easy appetizer recipe is a total crowd-pleaser!
    Print Pin Rate
    Prep Time: 10 minutes
    Cook Time: 10 minutes
    Total Time: 20 minutes
    Servings: 12 servings

    Ingredients

    For the crostini:

    • 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil

    For the whipped feta:

    • 5 ounce block feta
    • 1/4 cup plain unsweetened yogurt
    • 1/4 cup olive oil
    • pinch of salt

    For topping:

    • pomegranate seeds
    • sliced pears
    • chopped walnuts
    • honey
    • olive oil
    • flaky salt

    Instructions

    • Preheat oven to 400° Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
    • Arrange the baguette slices on the baking sheet and brush both sides of each slice with olive oil.
    • Bake for 10 minutes, or until golden brown and toasted. Remove from oven and let cool while you make the whipped feta.
    • Add the feta, yogurt, olive oil, and salt to a large bowl. Use either a hand or stand mixer to whip the feta until mostly smooth and combined (some lumps of feta may remain).
    • Top each crostini with about a tablespoon of whipped feta, then top however you’d like. I recommend either pomegranate and honey, sliced pears, walnuts, and honey, or olive oil and flaky salt.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 300kcal
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    30 Minutes or Less

    Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

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    close-up overhead image of mediterranean quinoa salad in a bowl.

    Fresh and flavorful mediterranean quinoa salad! This simple salad recipe is loaded with healthy veggies and tossed in a simple lemon dressing. Quinoa, chickpeas, olives, sundried tomatoes, basil, and feta – what’s not to love?!

    close-up image of mediterranean quinoa salad in a bowl.

    What You’ll Need to Make Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

    Quinoa – Start with 2 cups of cooked red or white quinoa (I used white quinoa) for this recipe. To cook quinoa, simply rinse 1 cup of dry quinoa, then add to a small saucepan with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring the quinoa to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover with a lid. Simmer quinoa for about 15 minutes, or until all liquid has been absorbed. Once cooked, let cool to room temperature before adding to this salad!

    Chickpeas – A can of chickpeas adds some extra protein to this grain salad. However, if you don’t like chickpeas, you can leave them out. Or, feel free to swap out the chickpeas with your favorite white bean – canneloni beans or navy beans would also taste great!

    Kalamata Olives – This classic mediterranean ingredient adds tons of delicious flavor to this quinoa salad! Either buy pitted kalamata olives, or slice and pit them yourself for this recipe.

    Feta – Another staple ingredient in many mediterranean recipes! Feta cheese is deliciously creamy and salty, and takes this salad recipe to the next level. Though if feta’s not your thing, you can leave it out or replace if with your favorite soft white cheese.

    mediterranean quinoa salad ingredients separated in a bowl.

    Tips and Tricks

    • This salad is great for meal prep! You can fully prep and store this salad in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors will only intensify as it sits.
    • Feel free to change up this salad however you’d like! Not a fan of one of the ingredients? Either leave it out or replace it with whatever you prefer. This mediterranean quinoa salad is super easy to customize and make your own.
    • Love this recipe? Try this very similar Jennifer Aniston salad next!
    mediterranean quinoa salad in a bowl with a glass of water on the side.

    Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

    Make it Gluten-Free: Surprise! This mediterranean quinoa salad is already gluten-free! Quinoa is a naturally gluten-free grain.

    Make it Vegan/Dairy-Free: Simply leave out the feta, or swap it out for your favorite non-dairy feta – I love this Violife Vegan Feta.

    close-up overhead image of mediterranean quinoa salad in a bowl.
    5 from 2 votes

    Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

    Fresh and flavorful mediterranean quinoa salad! This simple salad recipe is loaded with healthy veggies and tossed in a simple lemon dressing. Quinoa, chickpeas, olives, sundried tomatoes, basil, and feta – what’s not to love?!
    Print Pin Rate
    Prep Time: 15 minutes
    Total Time: 15 minutes
    Servings: 4 servings

    Ingredients

    • 2 cups cooked quinoa
    • 1 (15.5 ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
    • 1/2 English cucumber, chopped
    • 1 bell pepper, chopped
    • 1/2 red onion, chopped
    • 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced in half
    • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
    • 1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
    • 1/3 cup crumbled feta

    For the lemon dressing:

    • 1/2 cup olive oil
    • 1/4 cup lemon juice
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

    Instructions

    • Add the quinoa, chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, kalamata olive, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and feta to a large bowl.
      mediterranean quinoa salad step 1
    • In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until combined.
    • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 300kcal
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    30 Minutes or Less

    Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad

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    overhead image of mediterranean grilled chicken salad in a bowl with fresh mint on the side.

    Mediterranean grilled chicken salad loaded with fresh veggies and finished off with a simple lemon Dijon dressing! Meal prep this healthy salad ahead of a busy week, or throw together for a quick, wholesome dinner. This easy and delicious meal comes together in just 20 minutes.

    lemon dijon dressing being poured over mediterranean grilled chicken salad.

    What You’ll Need to Make Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad

    Chicken Breasts – Take either two large chicken breasts and slice then into four thin cutlets, or buy four pre-sliced chicken cutlets from the store. A thinner piece of chicken cooks up faster, and locks in more flavor than whole chicken breasts.

    Dried Oregano – This dried herb is commonly found in mediterranean recipes, which is exactly why we use it on both the chicken and in the dressing. If you don’t have any dried oregano in your pantry, I highly recommend you get some. It adds tons of delicious flavor to this salad recipe!

    Lemon Juice – Fresh lemon juice tastes incredible in this lemon Dijon dressing. However, if you don’t have lemon juice, you can replace it with an equal amount of red wine vinegar.

    Feta Cheese – Feta is perfectly salty and creamy in this grilled chicken salad. Add as much to your salad as your heart (or tastebuds) desire. Or, if you don’t like feta, you can use crumbled goat cheese instead.

    Fresh Mint – Just a little bit of fresh mint takes this easy salad recipe over the top! Mint is another ingredient commonly found in Mediterranean recipes, and brings out the fresh flavors in this dish. Never tried mint in a salad before? Just trust me, it’s so so so good! But if you simply don’t like mint, try fresh chopped parsley instead.

    close-up image of mediterranean grilled chicken salad in a bowl.

    How to Grill Chicken

    • Start by seasoning your chicken very well with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and garlic powder.
    • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, or around 400° Fahrenheit.
    • Once preheated, place the chicken on the grill and leave to cook, without touching it, for about 4-6 minutes.
    • Then, flip each chicken breast, and cook for an additional 4-6 minutes on the other side.
    • Remove chicken from the grill and let rest on a cutting board while you prepare the rest of your grilled chicken salad.
    mediterranean grilled chicken salad in a bowl with lemon dijon dressing on the side.

    Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

    Make it Dairy-Free: Either leave out the feta, or use your favorite non-dairy feta.I highly recommend this VioLife Vegan Feta – it’s delicious!

    Make it Vegan: For a vegan summer salad recipe, take the dairy-free option above, then replace the grilled chicken with either grilled tofu or grilled cauliflower steaks.

    overhead image of mediterranean grilled chicken salad in a bowl with fresh mint on the side.
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    Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad

    Mediterranean grilled chicken salad loaded with fresh veggies and finished off with a simple lemon Dijon dressing! Meal prep this healthy salad ahead of a busy week, or throw together for a quick, wholesome dinner. This easy and delicious meal comes together in just 20 minutes.
    Print Pin Rate
    Prep Time: 10 minutes
    Cook Time: 10 minutes
    Total Time: 20 minutes
    Servings: 4 servings

    Ingredients

    For the chicken:

    • 1-2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut or pounded thin
    • salt and black pepper, to taste
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

    For the lemon Dijon dressing:

    • 1/2 cup olive oil
    • 1/4 cup lemon juice, or red wine vinegar
    • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
    • 1 garlic clove, minced
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

    For the salad:

    • 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
    • 1/2 English cucumber, sliced
    • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
    • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
    • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
    • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
    • 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives
    • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped

    Instructions

    • Preheat an outdoor grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
    • Pat chicken breasts dry with a paper towel, then season with the salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and onion powder.
    • Grill 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through, then let rest on a cutting board while you prepare the rest of the salad.
      grilled chicken on a plate
    • Add all dressing ingredients to a small bowl and whisk to combine.
      all salad ingredients in a bowl
    • Add all salad ingredients to a large bowl and toss. Then, slice your chicken and add to the salad. Finish off the salad with a drizzle of dressing, then serve immediately.
      lemon dijon dressing whisked together in a measuring cup

    Notes

  • If not eating right away, prepare the salad without the dressing, then add the dressing right before serving.

    • Nutrition

    Calories: 300kcal
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