To add more protein to your diet, try any type of beans, along with broccoli, Brussels sprouts, green peas, and potatoes. Quinoa and wild rice are also rich in protein.
It’s important to include healthy sources of protein in your diet each day. Protein helps your body with a number of important functions and helps you maintain muscle mass.
When you think of protein, steak or chicken might come to mind. But if you’re not a big meat eater, you have other options to make sure you get the recommended amount of protein that your body needs.
Worry not, because there are plenty of protein-rich plant-based alternatives available year-round. Try out these options for plenty of variety. You can enjoy each of them alone as a side dish, or in different recipes for a filling main course.
Keep in mind that the protein content may change depending on how you prepare each plant-based option. The values below match the cooking method indicated for each food.
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If you normally only eat edamame at your local sushi restaurant, it’s time to start enjoying it at home. It’s packed with healthy plant protein, vitamins, and minerals.
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Lentils, which resemble tiny beans, are actually a pulse in the legume family. But you won’t find a better option for an inexpensive, readily available vegetarian-friendly protein.
Bonus: Dry lentils cook up in only 15 minutes!
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Pinto beans are popular in Mexican cooking. They work well in burritos, as a salad topper, in soups and chilis, or just as a side. Try cooking dried pinto beans instead of using the canned type for even more health benefits.
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Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a main ingredient in hummus. They have a subtle, nutty flavor that works well in a variety of dishes.
Enjoy snacking on roasted chickpeas or using them as a staple in curries, soups, or vegetable bowls.
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Mung beans are part of the legume family and offer plenty of protein per serving. They’re also a good source of iron and fiber.
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In their pods, fava beans look like edamame or green beans. Try adding these nutritious legumes to stews and salads or making them into a tasty dip.
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This little legume packs a nutritious punch with plenty of potassium, fiber, and iron. While some people don’t like the taste of lima beans, recipes like the ones below can help with that.
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If you think green peas are mushy and unappetizing, you’re not alone. But they’re versatile and can be a delicious addition to many recipes.
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This popular health food is high in protein, fiber, antioxidants, and minerals. Quinoa cooks in just 15 minutes and is a great addition to salads, veggie burgers, pilaf, casseroles, and much more.
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Wild rice isn’t actually related to rice, but you can use it in many of the same dishes. Try this nutrient-rich grain in casseroles, soups, pilaf, stuffing, or on its own.
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Shelling pistachios may be a challenge, but it’s worth the effort. Pistachios are not only delicious by the handful but are versatile enough to enjoy in baked goods, on top of salads, and as a coating for fish.
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Almonds are delicious and nutritious. They’re a great source of protein, healthy fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants. Get the most nutrients by eating almonds with the skin intact.
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If you hated Brussels sprouts as a kid, it might be time to try them again. They’re delicious roasted, steamed, or even shredded in a salad.
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These tiny black seeds have earned their superfood status. Even a small amount has a ton of protein, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients. Chia seed pudding is a popular choice, but don’t be afraid to try out these seeds in other dishes.
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Sweet corn is as nutritious as it is tasty. Look for fresh corn in the summertime, or use the frozen version for recipes year-round.
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The trusty spud gets a bad rap. It’s actually packed with protein and vitamins C and B-6. Try russet or red potatoes for an even greater protein boost. Extra points if you eat the skin!
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Nothing says springtime like fresh asparagus. Try these yummy spears roasted, grilled, or steamed. You can even wrap them in bacon for a protein-filled treat.
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There’s a reason your parents always told you to eat your little green trees. In addition to protein, broccoli offers filling fiber, vitamins K and C, and more. Don’t forget to eat the stalk!
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You can do a lot more with an avocado than just make guacamole. Try it in a pudding or smoothie for a creamy, thick, and protein-filled twist.
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Below are some commonly asked questions about high protein vegetables.
Which vegetables have the highest protein?
Some vegetables that have high amounts of protein include Brussels sprouts, green beans, yellow sweet corn, asparagus, broccoli, and potatoes.
Which legumes are high in protein?
Legumes are high in protein. Some legumes with the highest protein content per 100 g serving
- field peas (26 g)
- cowpeas (24 g)
- common beans (24 g)
- mung beans (23 g)
- pigeon peas (22 g)
- chickpeas (21 g)
- soybeans (13 g)
