You’re hungry. You’re busy. And you don’t want to wreck your diet with a snack that has more calories than your last workout burned.
Sound familiar? Good news: low carb, low calorie snacks exist, and they don’t taste like cardboard. These are the kind of snacks that keep you full, fuel your day, and don’t make you regret life choices.
No weird ingredients, no cooking degree required—just simple, delicious, and guilt-free. Ready to snack smarter? Let’s go.
Why This Recipe Works
This isn’t just another sad “healthy” snack.
It’s high in protein, low in carbs, and under 100 calories per serving. The combo of crunchy and creamy textures tricks your brain into thinking you’re eating something indulgent. Plus, it takes less than 5 minutes to make.
Who has time for complicated recipes? Not you.
Ingredients
- 1 medium cucumber (sliced into rounds)
- ¼ cup whipped cream cheese (light or full-fat, your call)
- 1 tbsp everything bagel seasoning (because flavor matters)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional, but highly recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Slice the cucumber into ¼-inch thick rounds. Pro tip: Use a mandoline if you want them Instagram-perfect.
- Spread the cream cheese on each cucumber round.
Don’t skimp—this is the good stuff.
- Sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning on top. If you’re extra, add a tiny pinch of sea salt.
- Eat immediately or pretend you’re meal prepping and store them (see below).
Storage Instructions
These snacks are best fresh, but if you must store them, keep them in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb moisture. They’ll last up to 24 hours in the fridge.
After that, the cucumbers get soggy, and nobody wants that.
Benefits of This Recipe
Besides tasting like you cheated on your diet (but didn’t), these snacks are packed with hydration from the cucumber and protein from the cream cheese. They’re also ridiculously low in carbs—perfect for keto, low-cal, or just avoiding a mid-afternoon crash. And let’s be real, they’re way better than choking down another protein bar.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using soggy cucumbers: Fresh, crisp cucumbers are non-negotiable.
Limp veggies ruin everything.
- Overloading the cream cheese: A thin layer is enough. This isn’t a cheesecake.
- Skipping the seasoning: Plain cream cheese on cucumber is sad. Don’t be sad.
Alternatives
Not a fan of cucumbers or cream cheese?
Swap them out:
- Cucumber → Bell peppers or celery for extra crunch.
- Cream cheese → Greek yogurt mixed with a little ranch seasoning.
- Everything bagel seasoning → Smoked paprika or chili flakes for a kick.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Technically, yes. But they’re best fresh. If you must prep ahead, store the components separately and assemble right before eating.
Is this really low calorie?
Yep.
Each serving (about 5 pieces) is roughly 80-90 calories, depending on how heavy-handed you are with the cream cheese.
What if I don’t have everything bagel seasoning?
First, fix your life and buy some. Second, use garlic powder, onion powder, and sesame seeds as a makeshift version.
Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Sure, if you want to live dangerously. Just check the carb count—some flavored versions sneak in sugar.
Final Thoughts
Low carb, low calorie snacks don’t have to be boring or taste like punishment.
This recipe proves it. It’s stupidly easy, ridiculously tasty, and won’t leave you hungry 10 minutes later. So next time you’re tempted by the office vending machine, remember: cucumbers and cream cheese have your back.
Now go snack like a boss.