Protein Snacks to Eat For Lunch When You’re Short on Time

We’ve all had those whirlwind days. Back-to-back meetings, phone calls, an appointment or two over lunch. And when the workday is done, you might still have errands, activity drop-offs and household chores to tackle. 

It’s so easy to lose track of time and miss a meal, leaving you hungry at the end of the day. Choosing protein snacks for lunch that you feel good about eating can help nourish your body and help you stay energized through everything on your to-do list. 

What Snacks Can Replace a Lunch?

It’s important to eat nourishing food throughout the day, but sometimes you just can’t fit a whole meal into your busy schedule. Not to worry! Snacks can provide energy, be tasty and be a lot quicker to eat than sitting down for a full lunch. 

Foods with protein and fiber help keep you full enough to carry you through your busy day. You may want to pick some nutritious and filling snacks that are easy to carry since you might only have time for a quick bite when you’re zipping from place to place. 

Our Top Snacks to Eat When There’s No Time for Lunch

Whether you’ve got time to prepare something in advance or just need to grab your things and run, here are some good protein snacks for lunch.

Lorissa’s Kitchen Meat Snacks

Lorissa’s Kitchen makes a variety of meat snacks that are perfect for a protein boost when you’re on the go. Each of our beef snacks is made of 100% grass-fed beef and thoughtfully sourced ingredients like the ones you use when cooking at home.

Lorissa’s Original Beef Sticks are a great choice for a busy day. Individually packaged, they’re easy to pack and eat while you’re out and about. Each beef stick contains 6g of protein. A beef stick paired with string cheese or fruit might be just what you need to give you enough energy to get to that last activity pick-up.

If you’re looking for something a little heartier, try the Korean Barbecue Beef Steak Strips. With 8g of protein per serving, these flame-grilled beef strips are a delicious way to help keep you satiated. 

Why pick meat snacks for your lunch? Whether you choose beef or turkey, meat snacks contain protein and other nutrients that help make them a great choice when considering skipping meal time.

Canned Salmon and Crackers

Salmon and crackers are another good portable option. A 3.25oz can of salmon can provide 18.9g of protein. Salmon can be sold in cans or pouches, so make sure to check the label for information about specific serving sizes. 

Many types of crackers go well with salmon, like whole-wheat crackers or even pita chips. Some places sell salmon and crackers together, so you can enjoy a mini charcuterie snack wherever your routine takes you. No need for utensils either! This snack can be enjoyed as a spread or a dip. 

Cottage Cheese and Anything!

Cottage cheese is a wholesome snack option when you’re on the go or to help keep you full when you’re zipping from meeting to meeting. Pack it in a portable container or buy it in individual servings for convenience.

Cottage cheese is versatile and can be a sweet or savory snack. Pair it with fruit, granola or even chocolate to satisfy your sweet tooth. You could try mixing in veggies, salsa or a meat snack if you prefer those flavors. 

Protein Smoothie

If you like to sip your snacks, a protein smoothie might be a good choice for your lunch. Smoothies are perfect for busy, errand-filled days. Simply blend your favorite protein powder with water or milk, and get moving.

If you’re not a fan of protein powder, you can still make a filling and delicious smoothie. Nut butter, yogurt and soy products can also be a source of protein for your shakes.

Hard-Boiled Egg with Cheese and Fruit

Maybe you like to have a variety of bite-sized snacks to feel satisfied. In this case, why not try a hard-boiled egg with cheese and fruit? One hard-boiled egg has six grams of protein and other important nutrients for a balanced diet. This snack can be easily packed when you need a quick lunch on the move. 

A delicious charcuterie board to-go might consist of a hard-boiled egg, a crisp apple and a few cubes of cheddar cheese. Other fruits that travel well are grapes and oranges. You could have a lot of fun experimenting with different combinations.

Protein Bars

Protein bars are a classic for a reason—they’re super easy to pack and eat on busy days. You might have a favorite already, but there are many different varieties of flavors and they can vary significantly in protein content. It’s hard to argue against the ease and convenience of throwing a protein bar into your purse and snacking when needed.

Not everyone is a fan of protein bars, though, and that’s ok! If you want some more ideas for quick protein snacks, check out these alternatives to protein bars. It isn’t hard to pack a snack that helps you get enough protein in your day. 

Fruit and Nut Butter

Fruit is an excellent on-the-go lunch option since fruits are naturally portable. They can be easily peeled or washed before eating. However, fruit might not feel filling enough on its own to make up for missing lunch. That’s where nut butter comes in. 

Peanut butter and apples are a nostalgic combo that never gets old. If you want to try something that feels a little more decadent, a banana and chocolate almond butter tastes just like dessert. Sunflower seed butter is another great alternative if you aren’t able to eat nuts. Each type of nut butter has a different protein content, so be sure to check the labels to get accurate information. 

Maximize Snack Time With Lorissa’s Kitchen Meat Snacks

Even on those busiest days, it’s important to eat enough protein. Lorissa’s Kitchen meat snacks are great protein snacks for lunch, either on their own or as part of a full meal. Check out our shop selection so you can be prepared for those whirlwind days ahead of time.