Plant-based protein exists! People ask me all the time if they can get protein while choosing plant-based foods. My answer is of course! There are plenty of delicious and easy high protein plant-based recipes right here on the Black Girls Eat website.
Many plant-based foods are delicious. You can mix it up with foods like beans, lentils, tofu, and quinoa. Create meals that are rich in protein and essential nutrients. But more importantly, make meals that taste great!
These ingredients are versatile. They can be used in so many dishes, from salads to stir-fries to soups. Get creative in the kitchen. Experiment with different plant-based foods to remix your plate and your tastebuds.
Why Choose Plant-Based Protein?
Let’s consider why plant-based protein is a great option when you want to make a healthier food choice. In reality, these foods are all around us. Beans, lentils, tofu, and quinoa are all high in protein. And these days, you can find them in almost any supermarket. What I love is that you can get your protein and gain access to essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber at the same time. So when you are thinking of meatless meals, think about how powerful a bowl of black beans and quinoa really is.
The Power of Plants
Plant-based protein foods are another way of saying plant power! Adding foods like beans and lentils to you plate mean you get good fiber which can help improve digestion and keep you feeling satisfied.
Do you remember amino acids from your high school science class? I remember hearing that they were the building blocks of the body. What I didn’t hear is that foods made from soybeans like tofu and tempeh were considered complete proteins. That means they give us all of the essential amino acids we need.
Quinoa is another complete plant-based protein. It’s also low in fat and gluten-free. Quinoa offers a great amount of iron, magnesium, and fiber. I like to add quinoa to salads and it’s perfect for my vegan coconut quinoa oatmeal recipe.
Add these plant-based gems to your plate and enjoy a great meal that will keep you feeling satisfied and energized. Plant powered foods like tofu and quinoa are excellent choices for boosting your protein intake. And they both offer a plant-powered punch of nutrients. I love any added-value food product.
Protein Powered Plant-Based Recipes
High protein plant-based recipes are right here at your fingertips. When I first started leaning into plant-based nutrition, I discovered a whole world of foods that I had been ignoring. Check out some of my faves from right here at Black Girls Eat.
- Spicy Honey Garlic Tofu
- Cheese Free Quesadillas
- Easy Red Beans and Rice
- Warm Spinach and Mushroom Salad
- Tofu and Mushroom Empanadas
Incorporating Plant-Based Protein into Your Life
In addition to these delicious recipes, here are three great tips for getting more plants on your plate.
Try Something New
I don’t have all of the answers but I do know that trying a new plant-based protein could be a game changer for you. If you don’t like red beans? Try black beans. Nervous about Tofu? What about Quinoa? You don’t have to overhaul your whole life all at once. Baby steps!
Shop Somewhere New
New York City is a global city. I have access to all kinds of plant-based proteins without leaving my neighborhood. Try shopping at the Asian or African market in your city. That’s where you are sure to be introduced to new fruits, vegetables and grains.
Add Protein to Your Smoothies
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to boost your protein intake, try adding plant-based foods into your smoothies. Smoothies are a versatile and delicious option for adding extra nutrients to your diet. How about a scoop of plant-based protein powder? You can also add your favorite nut butter or even a handful of spinach. It’s not so hard to meet your protein goals and enjoy a refreshing and tasty drink at the same time. Have fun!
LA Dunn is a plant-based advocate in the Bronx who is determined to figure out more ways to get more fruits, grains and vegetables on her plate. Are you on a journey into the world of plant-based nutrition? Let’s do it together! Here are some ways to connect with LA:
- Follow on Instagram @blackgirlseat
- Subscribe to the newsletter, Recipes & Random-Ish
- Shop with LA at the Black Girls Eat Shop on Amazon
- Take the easy five day email class, Introduction to Plant-Based Nutrition
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