This collection of irresistible vegan high protein recipes will turn your world upside down! From legumes and tofu to hemp and chia seeds, injecting extra protein into your dishes has never been easier.
If I had a nickel for every time someone asks me about my protein intake… I wouldn’t need to create recipes for a living!
The truth is, meeting your protein quota is not very difficult. There are so many great vegan-friendly protein sources! In particular, it includes whole-food ingredients like beans, lentils, soy, nuts, and seeds.
Best Plant-Based Protein Sources
There are many excellent sources of plant-based protein, each offering a unique blend of nutrients. Some of the best sources include:
- Legumes. Beans, lentils, and peas are all rich in protein, fiber, iron, and other essential nutrients. They can be used in soups, stews, salads, or as a base for veggie burgers.
- Tofu and tempeh. Soy products are high in protein and versatile in cooking. They can be marinated, grilled, sautéed, or added to stir-fries and sandwiches.
- Edamame. These young, green soybeans are a complete protein source. They are an excellent addition to soups, salads, and stir-fries.
- Seitan. Seitan is a high-protein meat substitute featuring wheat gluten as its central ingredient. It has a chewy texture and can be seasoned and cooked in various ways, such as grilling, frying, or baking.
- Quinoa. Quinoa is a pseudo-grain and a complete protein source, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. Adding it to salads, soups, or even sushi can help you increase your protein intake.
- Nuts and seeds. Almonds, peanuts, walnuts, chia seeds, hemp seeds, and pumpkin seeds are all good sources of protein, healthy fats, and various other nutrients.
- Whole grains. Whole grains such as brown rice, oats, barley, bulgur, and farro contain protein and are also rich in fiber. They can be served as a side dish, or as an ingredient in salads, soups, and grain bowls.
- Plant-based milk. Fortified soy milk, almond milk, and other plant-based milk alternatives often contain extra protein and other nutrients due to the manufacturing process.
Incorporating various plant-based protein sources into your diet can help ensure you get all the essential amino acids and other nutrients for optimal health.
Best Vegan High Protein Recipes
Over the years, I have created high protein recipes for every meal and every occasion.
If you’re on the journey to increase your protein intake, the whole-food vegan high protein recipes featured in this article will make your life a hundred times easier!
1. Tofu Chocolate Mousse
This vegan chocolate mousse recipe contains a whopping 65 grams of protein! In addition to being a healthy dessert option, it makes a great snack before to after a workout.
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2. Chia Pudding Cups
Did you know that chia seeds are an excellent source of protein? Sure, they may not be as prolific as tofu or lentils, but they are a great way to fortify your breakfast and dessert.
My favorite thing about chia pudding is that you can customize it with your favorite flavors. Make it with fruit, chocolate, or plain vanilla… Every variation tastes amazing!
Raspberry
Blueberry
Mango
3. Sheet Pan Tofu and Broccoli
This recipe follows my favorite formula for an easy weeknight dinner. Between tofu, broccoli, rice, and my signature green goddess sauce, this meal meets all of your nutrition criteria.
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4. High Protein Flatbread
In case you are wondering how flatbread can be one of vegan high protein recipes… It has a secret ingredient in the dough! This recipe tastes similar to garlic naan, and no one would even suspect they are eating tofu.
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5. Crispy Black Bean Tacos
A popular source of plant-based protein, beans are the star of this recipe. These crispy black bean tacos are as delicious as they are easy to make!
A single serving of these vegan tacos carries 24 grams of protein, and you can always double up if you’re an athlete.
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6. Buffalo Chickpea Wrap
Add a little bit of… spice! These buffalo chickpea wraps are completely irresistible. Ready in 15 minutes, they pack a whole lot of flavors and, of course, protein.
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7. Lentil Quinoa Salad
This is a powerhouse with not one, but two major plant-based protein ingredients. Lentil and quinoa come together in a vibrant and balanced dish.
This salad also works wonders as a meal prep recipe. Whether you’re trying to increase your protein intake or meet your daily norm, this is a very tasty way to do so.
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8. Red Lentil Hummus
Traditionally, the main ingredient in hummus is chickpeas. Although technically, this dip can feature any pulses, including red lentils.
The reason I enjoy this vegan high protein recipe swap is a combination of ease, flavor, and the beautiful golden color. Not to mention, dry red lentils are cheaper than canned beans and quick to cook.
9. Zero Waste Vegan Tzatziki
Another dip on this list, this vegan tzatziki recipe takes advantage of tofu to create a thick and creamy texture. As a bonus, this injects extra protein into the dish.
Better yet, this is a zero-waste recipe. The water that drains from cucumbers acts as an ingredient in a refreshing non-alcoholic mojito.
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10. Edamame Hummus
In my opinion, edamame beans are highly underrated. A popular ingredient in Asian cuisine, these green soybeans are harvested before they fully mature.
For this edamame hummus, we combine the tender soybeans with creamy avocado for the ultimate high-protein dip.
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11. Vegan Sticky Ribs
I don’t make seitan very often. But when I do, it is gone within hours! These vegan sticky ribs have the perfect meaty texture complete with the smoky BBQ flavors.
If looking at these pictures doesn’t make your mouth water, I don’t know what to say! I think it’s more likely that after you make these once, you’ll be making these every week.
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12. Creamy Butter Beans
Butter beans earned their name thanks to their velvety soft texture. This creamy butter beans recipe is a great way to enjoy this legume and it only takes 20 minutes from start to finish.
Furthermore, this is one of the few vegan high protein recipes that is whole-food plant-based compliant, gluten-free, nut-free, and soy-free.
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13. Quinoa Cauliflower Salad
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: salads don’t have to be boring! They can be creamy, crunchy, spicy, zesty, refreshing, filling, nutritious, and of course, delicious.
If you’re searching for a vegan salad that is high in protein and fiber, this cauliflower salad will absolutely blow you away!
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14. Veggie Nuggets
The perfect alternative to chicken nuggets, these chickpea bites are both yummy and nutritious.
Don’t worry, they are easy to make. If you have kids, this is a great recipe to teach them to cook!
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15. Shredded Tofu Wrap
Another quick recipe that is great to have in your arsenal are these shredded tofu wraps. They are both simple to prep and packed with plant-based protein.
16. Lentil and Mushroom Bolognese
When you’re first transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle, you might find yourself drawn to your comfort meals. This vegan bolognese is a great substitute for the traditional sauce, and packs 24 grams of protein in each serving!
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17. Pink High-Protein Smoothie
I adore smoothies and I firmly believe thatthere is a smoothie for everyone. This pink smoothie is full of protein, which means it also doubles as a great post-workout! Not to mention, the color is simply breathtaking.
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18. Vegan Protein Blondies
Like tofu, chickpeas have the superpower of blending in with sweet and savory flavor. Their high protein content makes them an amazing ingredient for anyone with a sweet tooth and a desire to increase their protein intake.
This doubles as a gluten-free recipe, which shoudln’t be taken for granted!
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