5 Easy Indian Evening Snacks That Are Tasty and Healthy Too
Written by Tarishi Shrivastava | August 22, 2025
Introduction
Evenings often come with that familiar craving, something quick to munch on after a long day. For kids, it’s usually the moment they head straight to the kitchen looking for something tasty. But it doesn’t always have to be about chips or sugary treats. Indian kitchens have plenty of everyday ingredients that can turn into warm, comforting snacks without much effort.
Think of sprouts tossed with lemon and masala, or a soft moong dal chilla flipped fresh on the tawa. Even a leftover roti can be rolled up with paneer or veggies for something satisfying and fun. These are snacks that actually taste good and keep little tummies full till dinner.
Switching things up through the week also adds excitement. One day can be millet-based, another packed with lentils, and some days just about sneaking in colorful veggies. It’s a simple way to build better food habits without making it a big deal. And when kids help out, mixing, rolling, or plating, it turns snack time into a little shared moment at home.
Snack Smart: 5 Indian Evening Treats That Are Healthy & Delicious
Evening hunger is real, and often the trickiest to handle. That’s when most people crave something crispy or comforting, which often means reaching for packaged foods or frying something quickly. But there’s a sweet spot where taste and nutrition meet, especially in Indian kitchens. You don’t need complicated ingredients or fancy techniques, just a few pantry staples and a bit of creativity.
Here are five easy Indian snacks that strike a great balance between wholesome and tasty. They’re perfect for busy evenings when you want something quick but not junky.
Moong Dal Chilla
Made from soaked and ground moong dal, these savory pancakes are rich in protein and easy on digestion. You can blend the batter with ginger, garlic, and green chillies, and add finely chopped onions, coriander, or even grated carrots for extra nutrition. Pan-cook them with minimal oil and serve with a green chutney or plain curd. Moong dal chillas are great for growing kids and active adults alike.
Stuffed Roti Rolls
Turn leftover rotis into quick, tasty wraps by filling them with sautéed veggies, paneer bhurji, or a spicy sprouts mix. Add a dash of lemon juice, a sprinkle of chaat masala, and a touch of curd or chutney for extra flavor. Roll it all up, and you’ve got a snack that’s filling, flavorful, and a great way to reduce food waste. Wrap them in foil for an easy lunchbox addition or an on-the-go bite.
Sprout Chaat
Sprouted moong or moth beans mixed with chopped onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, coriander, and a dash of lemon juice make for a vibrant chaat. Add roasted peanuts or puffed rice for extra crunch. This protein-packed snack is light yet satisfying and a great way to introduce raw foods to kids in a fun way. Serve it cold or slightly warm, both ways work beautifully.
Vegetable Upma
Rava (semolina) upma made with seasonal vegetables is a wholesome and comforting snack. A tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and a hint of ginger brings it to life, while veggies like carrots, peas, beans, and capsicum add both colour and nutrition. It cooks quickly, is light on the stomach, and works well as an evening bite for kids and elders alike.
Roasted Makhana
Fox nuts, or makhana, are high in calcium and antioxidants. Dry-roast them in ghee with jeera, black pepper, a pinch of salt, or even chaat masala for a spiced twist. They’re a great low-calorie alternative to fried namkeens. Keep a jar handy for those in-between moments, these snacks are crunchy, satisfying, and made with ingredients you can feel good about.
Conclusion
Evening snacks are a chance to refuel wisely. With a little planning, your evening plate can become a way to support your family’s nutrition while still bringing joy to the table. From crunchy makhana to warm upma, these easy Indian snacks give you flavor, variety, and a whole lot of health, all in just a few bites.