15+ Indian Healthy Evening Snacks to Satisfy Your Cravings

Do you also start craving something delicious in the evening? This is not only you; it happens to everybody. After a long day of work, everyone wants to eat something tasty to energize their body.

But what do you eat? Fried foods like Samosas, Noodles, Momos, Rolls, chili potatoes, Pakoras, etc., or something healthy?

Most people would agree with the above options. Right? 

However, did you know that you can also satisfy your hunger cravings with healthy options? 

Yes, these unhealthy snacks are a quick fix, but they are not a healthy option for your body. 

However, the good news is that you can replace these unhealthy items with healthier evening snacks.

In this blog, let's explore some of the best Indian healthy evening snacks that strike the right balance between taste and nutrition.

Why Should You Choose Healthy Evening Snacks?

Snacking means eating in smaller portions between meals. Here, you can choose protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep you fuller and energized. 

Snacking increases your intake of nutrients from foods like fruits and vegetables. Planning your snacks can help you stay healthy, manage your hunger, and stay satisfied between meals.

Here’s why choosing healthy evening snacks matters:

• Sustains energy levels until dinner.
• Reduces overeating during dinner time.
• Improves metabolism and helps regulate digestion.
• Supports weight management by avoiding junk food.

A well-balanced snack includes proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbs to keep you full and fueled.

What is a Healthy Evening Snack?

When planning or preparing your evening snack, ensure it meets the following criteria:

• Low in refined sugar and processed ingredients
• Moderate in calories (100-250 kcal per serving)
• Includes a good mix of macro and micronutrients
• Made with fresh and seasonal ingredients
• Quick and easy to prepare

Top 15 Indian Healthy Evening Snacks List

Here is an easy and nutritious list of Indian healthy evening snacks to keep your energy up without guilt:

1. Roasted Chana (Bengal Gram)

Roasted Chana is everyone's favorite snack. Rich in protein and fiber, it is a crunchy snack that keeps you full for longer. For added flavor, you can pair it with chopped onions, tomatoes, and lemon juice.

2. Sprout Salad

Try moong sprouts as your healthy evening snack. Mix chopped veggies, lemon juice, and a pinch of black salt in sprouts for a refreshing, protein-packed snack.

3. Upma (Made with Suji or Millets)

Upma is a light, easy-to-make dish. It is made from semolina or millet, such as ragi or bajra, vegetables, and minimal oil. It's filling and easy to digest.

4. Vegetable Poha

Poha is one of the most consumed morning and evening snacks. Cooking with mustard seeds, turmeric, onions, green peas, and carrots makes a light and tasty evening meal.

5. Idlis with Chutney

Steamed idlis with mint or coconut chutney are a low-calorie, gut-friendly snack.

6. Homemade Bhel Puri

Try this tasty bhel-puri snack. Add onions, tomatoes, boiled potatoes, and chutneys to puffed rice to make a tasty low-oil snack. Use tamarind or mint chutney instead of sweetened ones.

7. Moong Dal Chilla

This moong dal chilla is rich in protein and can be filled with vegetables for added nutritional value.

8. Makhana (Fox Nuts)

Roast Makhana with ghee, turmeric, or black pepper for a calcium-rich, crunchy snack that pairs perfectly with a cup of green tea.

9. Oats Tikki

Make oats tikki with boiled potatoes and veggies for a fiber-rich option.

10. Cucumber or Carrot Sticks with Hummus

Add a pinch of chaat masala to your vegetables and chickpea-based hummus, enhanced with garlic and spices. 

11. Vegetable Dalia

A light dalia (broken wheat) khichdi with veggies is wholesome and filling.

12. Paneer Tikka

Low-fat paneer, marinated in curd and spices, is grilled or baked and is a protein-rich and delicious option.

13. Fruit Chaat

Seasonal fruits, combined with lemon juice, mint leaves, and a sprinkle of rock salt, make a tangy and hydrating snack.

14. Stuffed Multigrain Paratha (Mini)

A small-sized paratha with a filling of spinach, paneer, or moong dal, cooked in minimal oil, serves as a nourishing treat.

15. Ragi or Bajra Cookies

Make these cookies at home using jaggery instead of sugar and ghee instead of butter for a healthier sweet bite.

Other Options for Healthy Evening Snacks

• Masala Corn 
• Egg Sandwiches
• Homemade Popcorn
• Dhokla
• Idli
• Upma Rawa
• Fruits and Veggies
• Soup
• Whole Wheat Biscuits
• Salad with Mixed Beans
• Bread with Bananas and Oats
• Fruit Chaat with Citrus Dressing
• Baked Kale Chips
• Sweet Potato and Chickpea Chaat
• Whole wheat Veggie Wrap

Read more: Healthy Indian Snacks List: Eat Your Way To Happiness!

Tips for Preparing and Storing Healthy Snacks

• Meal prep ahead: Chop veggies or sprout pulses in advance.
• Use healthy oils: Choose olive oil, ghee, or mustard oil.
• Avoid deep-frying; opt for roasting, baking, steaming, or shallow-frying instead.
• Use seasonal ingredients: They're more nutritious and fresher.
• Portion control: Stick to a bowl or small plate to avoid overeating.

Quick 5-Minute Healthy Snack Ideas

• Buttermilk with roasted seeds
• Banana with peanut butter
• Coconut water with dry fruits
• Whole wheat toast with curd and cucumber slices
• Chickpea hummus with khakra
• Spinach-Avocado Smoothie
• Pistachio & Peach Toast
• Chocolate-Banana Protein Smoothie

Also read: 25 Healthy High-Fiber Snacks For Weight Loss!

What to Avoid in Evening Snacks

Here are some of the evening snacks you should avoid-

• Salty and processed foods- Chips, namkeen, packaged soups, instant noodles.
• Sugary Treats- Chocolates, pastries, cookies, sweetened beverages.
• Caffeine-containing snacks include coffee, tea, energy drinks, and dark chocolate.
• Fried and Greasy Foods- Pakoras, samosas, fries, burgers.
• Refined Carbohydrates- White bread, cakes, bakery biscuits.
• Leftover Junk or Fast Food- Pizza, pasta, or burgers from lunch.
• Alcohol- Wine, beer, cocktails.
• Red Meat or Heavy Proteins - Steak, kebabs, and heavy curries.
• Excessive salt and preservatives

Benefits of Indian Healthy Evening Snacks

Health Benefits of Indian Healthy Snacks- 

• Helps to manage weight
• Improved digestion
• Maintain blood sugar levels
• Better Mood
• Good for heart health

The Key Takeaway

Now, you have more than 15 easy and healthy evening snack ideas. 

And keep in mind that snacking doesn't have to mean cheating on your diet. However, always choose the nutritious options and be mindful; your evening snacks can be both delightful and nourishing. So, next time hunger strikes at 5 PM, ditch the chips and try one of these wholesome, healthy Indian snacks instead! Stay healthy. Stay happy. Happy snacking!