If you’re exploring plant-based eating, you might wonder how to keep meals both interesting and protein-rich. These dinner recipes prove plant-based doesn’t mean protein-poor. From savory Italian black bean meatballs to sweet and sour tofu, these meals are packed with nutrients and flavors that will keep your dinner rotation fresh and satisfying.
Sheet Pan BBQ Tofu & Vegetables
Enjoy a simple and nutritious dinner with BBQ tofu mixed with broccoli, peppers, and sweet potatoes, all roasted on one pan for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. This dish is a great way to pack in the protein with a plant-based twist. Perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan BBQ Tofu & Vegetables
Italian Black Bean Meatballs
These black bean meatballs are a perfect plant-based alternative, bringing a hearty protein punch to your plate. Serve them with marinara sauce over your favorite pasta or zoodles for a complete, satisfying meal that comes together quickly and deliciously.
Get the Recipe: Italian Black Bean Meatballs
Air Fryer Tofu
Air frying tofu is a game-changer, creating a crispy texture that’s perfect for adding a protein boost to any meal. This method uses less oil than traditional frying, making it a healthier choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tofu
Instant Pot Picadillo
Try this plant-based version of the classic Cuban picadillo, made with tempeh, lentils, and potatoes. It’s a great source of protein, with bold flavors from olives, capers, raisins, and spices, all simmered together in a tomato-based sauce. Quick, hearty, and flavorful, it’s perfect for a comforting dinner.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Picadillo
Lentil Bolognese
This hearty lentil bolognese sauce is great over any pasta or noodles. It’s easy to cook and packs a serious protein punch with lentils as the star, making it a perfect choice for a filling, plant-based meal that keeps you fueled.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Bolognese
Lentil Pasta with Garlicky Greens
This dish combines red lentil pasta with sautéed garlicky kale and a sprinkle of cheese, creating a protein-rich meal that is both quick and flavorful. It’s a great way to enjoy a nutritious, plant-based meal that feels indulgent without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Pasta with Garlicky Greens
Lentil Stuffed Eggplant
Lentil stuffed eggplant is a fantastic meal that’s big on flavor and protein. Filled with brown lentils, tomatoes, shallots, and greens, and topped with a touch of goat cheese, it’s a hearty, plant-based dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Stuffed Eggplant
Kung Pao Chickpeas
Kung Pao Chickpeas bring a protein-rich vegan twist to a classic dish. Enjoy a burst of bold flavors with this simple swap that keeps all the classic spices and ingredients, making it a great meal for anyone looking for a plant-based option.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chickpeas
Sweet & Sour Tofu
Sweet and sour tofu is a quick, protein-packed dish that recreates a favorite takeout meal in your kitchen. Ready in just 30 minutes, it pairs crispy tofu with a sticky sweet and sour sauce for a crowd-pleasing meal.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Sour Tofu
The Best Tofu Marinade
Enhance your tofu with this Thai-inspired marinade featuring smooth almond butter. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for adding a rich, nutty flavor to the tofu, making it a great protein component for your meals.
Get the Recipe: The Best Tofu Marinade
Hot & Sour Egg Drop Soup
Combine the best of both worlds with this hot and sour egg drop soup. This hearty bowl is a great way to enjoy a protein-rich meal that merges two beloved soups into one flavorful experience.
Get the Recipe: Hot & Sour Egg Drop Soup
Tofu Fried Rice
Tofu fried rice is the perfect quick and easy meal that’s great for protein. It’s adaptable to whatever veggies you have on hand, making it a great last-minute dinner option that’s full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice
Marinated Baked Tempeh
This marinated baked tempeh recipe turns tempeh into a super flavorful and crispy meal base. It’s easy to make and perfect as a protein-rich foundation for any plant-based meal, ensuring you get a great taste and nutritional balance.
Get the Recipe: Marinated Baked Tempeh
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.
