Boosting your protein intake doesn’t have to mean eating more meat. There are plenty of delicious, protein-packed options that can keep your meals exciting and nutritious. From snacks to main courses, these high-protein foods are versatile and easy to include in your diet. Check out these great alternatives.
Quinoa
Quinoa is a versatile grain that’s packed with protein and all nine essential amino acids. It’s also gluten-free and high in fiber, making it a great base for salads, bowls, or as a side dish.
Chickpeas
Chickpeas are a protein-rich legume that can be roasted for a crunchy snack, blended into creamy hummus, or added to soups and salads. They are also a good source of fiber and essential nutrients like iron and folate.
Lentils
Lentils are easy to cook and full of protein. They come in various colors, including green, brown, and red, each with a slightly different texture and flavor. Perfect for soups, stews, and salads, lentils are a hearty addition to any meal and are also high in fiber and iron.
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is thicker and creamier than regular yogurt and packs a protein punch. It’s also rich in probiotics, which are good for gut health. Enjoy it with fruit, honey, or as a base for smoothies and dressings.
Tofu
Tofu is a soy-based protein that’s incredibly versatile. It absorbs flavors well, making it great for stir-fries, soups, and even grilled dishes. Tofu is also low in calories and high in iron and calcium, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.
Edamame
Edamame are young soybeans that are steamed and lightly salted. They make a great snack or addition to salads and bowls. Edamame is not only high in protein but also rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including folate and vitamin K.
Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is a dairy product rich in protein and low in fat. It’s great on its own, with fruit, or mixed into recipes for extra creaminess and protein. It also contains calcium and other essential nutrients, making it a nutritious option for breakfast, snacks, or even savory dishes.
Hemp Seeds
Hemp seeds are small but mighty, packed with protein and healthy fats. They are also a good source of magnesium, iron, and zinc. Sprinkle them on salads, yogurt, or blend them into smoothies for an extra boost of protein and nutrients.
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are a crunchy, protein-rich snack. They can be eaten on their own, added to granola, or sprinkled over salads for extra crunch and nutrition. They are also high in magnesium, iron, and antioxidants, which support overall health.
Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are tiny but loaded with protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids. When mixed with liquid, they form a gel-like consistency, making them great for thickening smoothies, yogurt, or making chia pudding. They also provide essential minerals like calcium and magnesium.
Almonds
Almonds are a high-protein nut that’s perfect for snacking. They are also rich in healthy fats, fiber, vitamin E, and magnesium. Almonds can be eaten raw, roasted, or added to a variety of dishes, including salads, oatmeal, and baked goods, for an extra protein and nutrient boost.
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a popular and tasty way to add protein to your diet. It’s also rich in healthy fats and can be spread on toast, added to smoothies, or used in baking. Look for natural peanut butter with no added sugar or hydrogenated oils for the healthiest option.
Black Beans
Black beans are a hearty and nutritious source of protein. They are also high in fiber, iron, and antioxidants. Use them in soups, stews, salads, or as a filling for tacos and burritos. Black beans can also be pureed to make delicious dips and spreads.
12 Foods That Have More Protein Than An Egg
Eggs are often hailed as a great source of protein, packing about 6 grams per large egg. But if you’re looking to diversify your protein sources or just seeking a bit more protein punch per serving, there are plenty of other options out there. This guide will walk you through twelve foods that offer even more protein than a single egg, suitable for a variety of diets and lifestyles and almost any meal, any time of the day.
Read it Here: 12 Foods That Have More Protein Than An Egg
Ditch the Fake Meat – 10 Tastier, Plant-Based Alternatives You’ll Love
Not everyone’s on board with the whole fake meat craze. Maybe it’s the taste, the texture, or just the idea of it that doesn’t sit right with you. The good news is, you can eat plant-based without eating “meat” grown in a lab with a less than stellar ingredient list a mile long. These 10 plant-based alternatives that are not only better tasting but better for you too.
Read it Here: Ditch the Fake Meat – 10 Tastier, Plant-Based Alternatives You’ll Love
*Select images provided by Depositphotos.
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
