9 Surprising Foods that Pack Protein
Updated: Jul. 20, 2022Need a little extra protein in your diet? These high protein foods pack in essential nutrients but aren't meat.
Meat is high in protein, but there are actually so many more ways to get protein into your diet. These protein-rich alternatives can be cooked and consumed in a multitude of ways and are perfect whether you eat only vegan recipes are just looking to be more aware of what nutrients you’re eating!
Not vegetarian, but still want to eat healthy? Try these protein-packed salads.
Lentils
Lentils can be added into just about any dish, from hearty stews to burritos, and pack 9g of protein per ½-cup serving. These legumes come in red, black, brown and green varieties, but are all nutrient-dense with a list of impressive benefits including being high in fiber, and low in calories. Try these easy lentil recipes to get started.
Chickpeas
You might already love chickpeas in hummus, but there’s so much more that these little beans can do! Try roasting them with your choice of spices for a light and crunchy snack or make them the center of dinner in a coconut ginger stir-fry with rice. Here are dozens of more recipes to make with chickpeas.
Peanuts and Peanut Butter
Popular in your classic PB&J, Thai dishes and of course, peanut butter dessert recipes, peanuts and peanut butter are a great source of protein. Just make sure your peanut butter in the jar is 100 percent nuts without any additives so you’re getting all the nutritional benefits!
Black Beans
Black beans are super versatile and super delicious. Aside from being high in protein, they are also jam-packed with fiber and potassium. Health-ify your brownies by adding a can of black beans or try classic black bean enchiladas or black bean burgers for dinner.
Wild Rice
Swap out your regular jasmine or brown rice for something on the wild side. Wild rice is higher in protein than other rice grains at 6.5 grams per 1-cup cooked serving. Its slightly chewy texture and nutty flavor is delicious as a side dish with mushrooms or in a hearty bowl of soup.
Chia Seeds
Chia seeds may be little, but they are definitely mighty! Add them onto your morning bowl of oatmeal for some extra protein and omega-3 fatty acids, or layer them up in a parfait with berries for a sweet treat at home. There are so many ways to power up with chia seeds!
Almonds
Aside from protein, almonds are high in vitamin E, which is great for skin and hair health, as well as magnesium! Grab them by the handful for a snack on-the-go, add them to fresh salad recipes instead of croutons or sprinkle toasted almonds over your after-dinner ice cream.
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, are a tasty and easy snack you can enjoy all year round. When it’s fall, roast your own pumpkin seeds at home for a special treat. They’re also great sprinkled on soups, stews and casseroles.
