If you’re a vegetarian who’s looking for high-protein options, there are plenty of great choices out there.
Here are some of the best options to get your fix without eating meat.
Beans – black beans, kidney beans, lentils, chickpeas
Beans are an incredible addition to any meal, and there is so much variety for you to enjoy. From black beans and kidney beans to lentils and chickpeas, these delicious legumes are full of nutrition and can easily be added to any dish. Not only full of plant based protein, beans are also high in fiber which helps with digestion, cholesterol levels, and satiation. They are moderately low carb as well. Don’t forget that beans offer a range of vitamins and minerals too, so they’re an ideal choice if you’re looking to add something healthy and tasty into your diet. Experiment away – there’s no limit on the kind of meal you can create with this nutritious family of legumes.
Nuts and seeds – almonds, pistachios, cashews, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds
Nuts and seeds are a great way to get some extra nutrition in your diet. Delicious almonds, pistachios, and cashews bring a strong dose of vitamin E, fiber, magnesium, and healthy fats. Sunflower seeds are packed with Vitamin B6 and folate. And pumpkin seeds? They hit the jackpot—they provide five different minerals, including magnesium and zinc! If you’re looking for delicious snacks that are hearty and nutritious, look no further than nuts and seeds.
Dairy – cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, milk, ricotta cheese
There are countless delicious ways to enjoy dairy. Cottage cheese is a nutritious snack that can be savored on its own or enjoyed in dishes like macaroni and cheese. Greek yogurt, with its unique tangy taste and creamy texture, is great plain or topped with granola, fruit and nuts. Thick and satisfying milk is essential for so many recipes as well as being an ideal beverage enjoyed straight from the glass. Lastly, ricotta cheese provides a mild flavor that pairs wonderfully with savory foods like lasagna or sweet items such as lemon ricotta pancakes. For easy meal ideas, dairy products should definitely be part of your talk track.
Grains – quinoa, buckwheat, oats
Grains are the backbone of a healthy diet, and there is no better trio of grains than quinoa, buckwheat and oats. Quinoa is full of protein and complete with essential amino acids. Buckwheat is gluten-free and rich in vitamins, potassium and magnesium. Finally, oats are loaded with antioxidants, dietary fibers and minerals, making them an ideal choice for breakfast or snacks. These wholesome grains can be combined to create hearty meals like porridges or salads that provide sustained energy throughout the day. With their impressive nutrition profiles, it’s easy to understand why quinoa, buckwheat and oats are so popular with health-conscious foodies.
Fruits and vegetables – avocado, broccoli, kale, spinach
Avocados, broccoli, kale and spinach are all fantastic fruits and vegetables to have in your diet. Avocados are creamy and delicious – perfect as a base for toast or in salads and guacamole. Broccoli can be steamed or stir fried with garlic, adding a savory dash to any meal. Kale offers a slightly bitter twist which is extremely popular in smoothies and salads, while spinach brings an extra crunchy kick which enhances almost any dish. So why not spruce up your culinary repertoire with these amazing immune-boosting superstars?
Supplements – protein powder made from pea or hemp protein
Seeking out a natural source of protein? Look no further than pea and hemp protein supplements. Both are excellent sources of vegan-friendly, plant-based protein powder, with some variations in their nutritional profiles. Pea protein is high in iron and branched chain amino acids, while hemp protein contains all the essential amino acids and dietary fiber, making both great options to add to your daily diet. Not only that, they mix easily with liquids and can be added to smoothies or other recipes – perfect for those looking for more versatile proteins that offer the same range of benefits as other animal-based proteins.
Proper nutrition plays an essential role in keeping us healthy and feeling our best, which is why it’s so important to find what works for you. Thankfully, there are many options out there, from beans like black beans, kidney beans and lentils to nuts and seeds like almonds and cashews, and even handy supplements like protein powder. Dairy products along with grains such as quinoa and oats offer a great source of vitamins and minerals while fruits, vegetables such as avocado and broccoli are loaded with vitamins. It doesn’t have to be difficult to find the right balance; by taking the time to explore all the delicious food options out there, you can easily incorporate them into your diet. Eating a balanced diet doesn’t have to mean any sacrifice; rather it’s an opportunity to taste amazing flavors while nourishing your body in the process.
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