The afternoon slump can be a real challenge to your weight loss goals. Instead of reaching for a sugary snack, what if you could have something delicious that keeps you on track? Low-carb snacks are the answer. They help stabilize blood sugar, reduce cravings, and keep you feeling full. Here are 15 easy and tasty keto-friendly snack recipes, all under 5g of net carbs, to make your weight loss journey more enjoyable.

Why Choose Low-Carb Snacks for Weight Loss?

A low-carb diet can shift your body into ketosis, a state where it burns fat for energy instead of carbs. This is a key principle of the ketogenic diet and an effective weight loss strategy. Low-carb snacks help maintain this state by avoiding insulin spikes, which can cause fat storage and hunger. Smart snacking on low-carb foods keeps you full and energized, making it easier to maintain your diet. Learn more about the keto diet in our guide.

15 Keto-Friendly Snack Recipes Under 5g of Carbs

1. Avocado & Bacon Bites

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy
• Ingredients:
  • 2 large avocados, halved and pitted
  • 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Scoop out a small amount of avocado from the center of each half to create a larger well.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the crumbled bacon, red onion, and cilantro.
  4. Fill each avocado half with the bacon mixture.
  5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the avocado is soft and the filling is heated through.
  6. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
• Nutritional Info (per serving): Approximately 4g net carbs.
• Tips and Variations: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese on top before baking for extra flavor.

2. Cucumber & Cream Cheese Bites

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 0 minutes
• Servings: 2
• Difficulty: Easy
• Ingredients:
  • 1 large cucumber, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. Spread a small amount of the cream cheese mixture onto each cucumber slice.
  3. Garnish with extra dill if desired.
• Nutritional Info (per serving): Approximately 3g net carbs.
• Tips and Variations: Top with a small piece of smoked salmon for a more substantial snack.

3. Keto-friendly Cheese Crisps

• Prep time: 2 minutes
• Cook time: 5-7 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy
• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Create small piles of the shredded cheese on the baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
  3. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  4. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet to crisp up.
• Nutritional Info (per serving): Approximately 1g net carb.
• Tips and Variations: Sprinkle with your favorite herbs or spices like paprika or garlic powder before baking.

4. Celery Sticks with Almond Butter

• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 0 minutes
• Servings: 1
• Difficulty: Easy
• Ingredients:
  • 2 celery stalks, cut into sticks
  • 2 tbsp almond butter
• Instructions:
  1. Wash and trim the celery stalks.
  2. Spread the almond butter into the groove of each celery stick.
• Nutritional Info (per serving): Approximately 4g net carbs.
• Tips and Variations: Ensure you use an almond butter with no added sugar. Sprinkle with a few chia seeds for extra fiber.

5. Hard-Boiled Eggs with Everything Bagel Seasoning

• Prep time: 2 minutes
• Cook time: 10-12 minutes
• Servings: 2
• Difficulty: Easy
• Ingredients:
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tbsp Everything Bagel Seasoning
• Instructions:
  1. Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water.
  2. Bring the water to a boil, then cover the pan and remove it from the heat.
  3. Let the eggs sit in the hot water for 10-12 minutes.
  4. Transfer the eggs to an ice bath to cool.
  5. Peel the eggs, slice them in half, and sprinkle with Everything Bagel Seasoning.
• Nutritional Info (per serving): Approximately 1g net carb.
• Tips and Variations: You can make a batch of hard-boiled eggs at the beginning of the week for a quick grab-and-go snack.

6. Bell Pepper & Guacamole Bites

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 0 minutes
• Servings: 2
• Difficulty: Easy
• Ingredients:
  • 1 large bell pepper (any color), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup guacamole
• Instructions:
  1. Use the bell pepper pieces as chips and dip them into the guacamole.
• Nutritional Info (per serving): Approximately 5g net carbs.
• Tips and Variations: Make your own guacamole to control the ingredients and avoid added sugars.

7. Zucchini Pizza Bites

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 10-12 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy
• Ingredients:
  • 1 large zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 1/4 cup marinara sauce (no sugar added)
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Mini pepperoni slices
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place the zucchini slices on a baking sheet.
  3. Top each slice with a small amount of marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and a few mini pepperoni slices.
  4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the zucchini is tender.
• Nutritional Info (per serving): Approximately 4g net carbs.
• Tips and Variations: Add other low-carb pizza toppings like olives or mushrooms.

10. Coconut Fat Bombs

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 0 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling time)
• Servings: 8
• Difficulty: Easy
• Ingredients:
  • 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 2 tbsp powdered erythritol
• Instructions:
  1. In a bowl, mix all ingredients together.
  2. Pour the mixture into a silicone mold or an ice cube tray.
  3. Freeze for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.
  4. Store in the freezer.
• Nutritional Info (per serving): Approximately 1g net carb.
• Tips and Variations: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a scoop of collagen powder for an extra boost.

11. Smoked Salmon & Cucumber Rolls

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 0 minutes
• Servings: 2
• Difficulty: Easy
• Ingredients:
  • 1 large cucumber
  • 4 oz smoked salmon
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• Instructions:
  1. Use a vegetable peeler to create long, thin ribbons from the cucumber.
  2. Lay the cucumber ribbons flat and spread a thin layer of cream cheese on each.
  3. Top with a piece of smoked salmon and a sprinkle of chives.
  4. Roll them up tightly.
• Nutritional Info (per serving): Approximately 3g net carbs.
• Tips and Variations: Secure the rolls with a toothpick for easier handling.

10. Parmesan-Crusted Zucchini Fries

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy
• Ingredients:
  • 2 medium zucchinis, cut into fry-shaped sticks
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Toss the zucchini sticks in the Parmesan mixture until evenly coated.
  4. Arrange the zucchini fries in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
• Nutritional Info (per serving): Approximately 4g net carbs.
• Tips and Variations: Serve with a low-carb dipping sauce like a sug

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the best low-carb snacks to buy?

Look for snacks that are naturally low in carbs, such as nuts, seeds, cheese, and jerky. Always check the label for hidden sugars and additives. Some great store-bought options include pork rinds, olives, and keto-specific snack bars.

2. How many low-carb snacks can I have a day?

This depends on your individual daily carb limit and goals. It’s best to listen to your body’s hunger cues. One or two low-carb snacks between meals is usually sufficient to keep you satisfied without overdoing it.

3. Are low-carb snacks good for building muscle?

Many low-carb snacks are also high in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Snacks like hard-boiled eggs, jerky, and keto smoothies with protein powder are excellent choices for supporting muscle development.

4. Can I eat fruit on a low-carb diet?

While most fruits are high in sugar, some are lower in carbs and can be enjoyed in moderation. Berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are good options. Always be mindful of portion sizes.

5. How do I deal with sugar cravings on a low-carb diet?

Sugar cravings are common, especially when you’re first starting a low-carb diet. Opt for a sweet but keto-friendly snack like our Chocolate Mousse or Brownie Bites. Using a natural, zero-calorie sweetener like Prime Biome can also help satisfy your sweet tooth without the carbs.

Conclusion

Weight loss doesn’t have to mean giving up snacks. With these 15 easy and delicious low-carb recipes, you can enjoy satisfying treats while staying on track with your goals. From savory to sweet, there’s a healthy option for every craving. Try these recipes and see how enjoyable a low-carb lifestyle can be! For more healthy recipes and wellness tips, check out Blood Sugar and Healthy Breakfast.