As more and more people adopt a plant-based diet, there is a growing interest in finding ways to incorporate more plant-based protein into their meals. While many people assume that a plant-based diet lacks protein, there are actually plenty of sources of protein in the plant kingdom, from beans and legumes to nuts and seeds. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best ways to add more plant-based protein to your diet and share two easy recipes for high-protein snacks.
One of the best ways to add more plant-based protein to your diet is to incorporate beans and legumes into your meals. These are a great source of protein, as well as fiber and other important nutrients. Some good options include chickpeas, lentils, black beans, and kidney beans. You can add these to soups, stews, salads, or make them into burgers or falafel.
Another excellent source of plant-based protein is nuts and seeds. These are not only high in protein, but they also contain healthy fats and other important nutrients. Some good options include almonds, cashews, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds. You can add these to your meals as a topping for salads or oatmeal, or make them into a spread like almond butter or tahini.
Soy products are also a great source of plant-based protein. Some good options include tofu, tempeh, and edamame. These can be added to stir-fries, salads, or made into burgers or veggie meatballs.
Another great way to add more plant-based protein to your diet is to use protein powders. These can be added to smoothies or used in baking to increase the protein content of your meals. Some good options include pea protein, hemp protein, and brown rice protein.
Here are two easy recipes for high-protein snacks:
- Roasted Chickpeas
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Drain and rinse chickpeas and pat them dry with a towel.
- In a bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
- Add chickpeas to the bowl and toss until coated in the spice mixture.
- Spread chickpeas out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy.
- Serve as a snack or add to salads for extra crunch.
- Peanut Butter Energy Balls
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
Directions:
- In a large bowl, mix together rolled oats, peanut butter, and honey.
- Add in chocolate chips and chia seeds and mix until combined.
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form mixture into small balls.
- Place balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Serve as a snack or pack them in your lunch for an easy and portable protein boost.
Try out these two easy recipes for high-protein snacks and enjoy the benefits of a balanced and nutritious diet.