High Protein Snacks

Looking for a healthy snack that’s high in protein? You’ve come to the right place! These High Protein Snacks are not only quick to make, they also can be modified to be keto, paleo and whole 30 approved! Plus, I’ve got a fun twist on sushi too… Beefshi anyone?!

Disclosure: This post is brought to you in partnership with The North American Meat Institute (NAMI) , a contractor to the Beef Checkoff! As always, I only work with companies that Mr. CEO and I support in the Shaw Kitchen! Thank you for supporting the work that keeps this website afloat.

Okay, okay, so I know I’m about six months behind on your high protein asks, but better late than never, right?

In December when I sent out the Shaw Simple Swaps reader survey I received an alarming number of responses asking for more ideas that followed suit with a paleo eating style.

Why you need protein rich snacks?

While you know I have my love affair with carbohydrates, I recognized I was really falling short here in providing you with simple high protein, lower carb snack options to help satiate and satisfy you throughout your busy days. 

Well, the wait is over because the Shaw Kitchen has a variety of High Protein Snacks featuring processed meats for you today. Yes, this registered dietitian is giving you full permission to enjoy processed meats and here’s why!

First off, we really need to look at the term “processed”. 

“Processed” is literally just another term for “prepared”. Just as you would buy a pre-chopped bag of mixed greens (read “processed salad”), you can purchase a “processed meat” like beef jerky, seasoned and cooked pastrami or a cut and trimmed beef roast at the market. 

Whether preparation occurs at home or in a large scale manufacturing plant, the similar processes like cutting, chopping, seasoning and cooking are involved. 

From a nutrition standpoint, not only does processed beef provide a convenient source of protein (especially for busy people on the go), it’s also a great way to provide your body with important vitamins and minerals, like iron and zinc.

Are snack recipes healthy?

Everything in moderation has always been my mentality so if you’re a fan of meat, you can rest easy knowing enjoying your high protein snack box below will not derail your health! 

In fact, prepared meats have been a significant staple of global food cultures for centuries.

According to studies evaluated by the 2015 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee, followers of the highly regarded Mediterranean diet eat twice as much red and processed meat than followers of USDA Food Patterns.

You may be asking yourself, how can I eat like a Mediterranean and still eat processed meats? 

It’s actually quite simple!

Balance your plate (or box) with at least 50% of volumizing fruits and vegetables! These foods add fiber, antioxidants and other phytonutrients that embrace the Mediterranean lifestyle.

These High Protein Snacks below are excellent examples of incorporating the Mediterranean emphasis of fruits, vegetables and healthy fats with a little added protein from the processed meats (read prepared meats!) 

Are nitrates and nitrites safe in processed meat?

When purchasing processed meats, you can rest easy knowing that the options available to you at your local market have all been inspected by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) before they are sold. 

Depending on the type of processing that is done to the beef (read cooking, seasoning, etc.), certain additives may be included in the ingredient list to increase the safety and shelf stability of the product. 

In the Shaw Kitchen, we purchase products (like the beef pastrami and beef jerky above) with natural nitrite sources, like celery powder.

But, that doesn’t mean if you’re a fan of a product that uses a more traditional nitrite source you’re at risk of anything other than a safe, bacteria free product. 

Though many brands are now making their products using the natural alternatives, it’s totally up to you as the consumer in making the choice that is best for you. 

The government also regulates the use of nitrite to ensure it is used at the proper levels that have been scientifically shown to control harmful bacteria.

Nitrite has been studied carefully by the National Institutes of Health and other government researchers and deemed safe at the levels used.

Are all processed meats safe to eat?

For the most part, yes! My job is to provide you with the full story, which I always intend to do.

Use the ingredient statements found on ALL processed beef products to make the best purchase for you and your family. Since we all have different styles of eating, I highly encourage clients to make the choice that feels best for them.

And, for more science based information on beef and nutrition, visit the North American Meat Institute here. 

Tight on time?  Pin these High Protein Snacks for later! 

What other recipe ideas do you have for processed meats?

Can I interest you in some Beefshi?!

Yes, I said Beefshi! Did you know contrary to popular belief, sushi does not mean raw seafood.  The term refers to the vinegared rice that can be paired with many ingredients including fish, vegetables or meat.

The various fillings that can be used in today’s sushi are limitless. Therefore, you can use your favorite ingredients – including deli meats – to design their favorite sushi/Beefshi.

I teamed up with the North American Meat Council to make this video to show you just how versatile Beefshi really is!

If you’re a fan of Texas style cooking with a little southwestern flare, then you will LOVE this Beefshi Texan Roll!

Looking for more #Beefshi ideas? Then visit Beefshi.com!

I’d love to see your creations! Be sure to tag me on Instagram or Facebook and use the #ShawKitchen so I can see what you whipped up! And, to join the #Beefshi trend, use the #Beefshi and tag @meat_up on Instagram!