We vegetarians often run into the trap of turning into a “carbatarian” – someone who mostly eats foods high in (refined) carbohydrates. This often happens when we replace meat with the “wrong” stuff.
Simply put: too much white bread, pasta, rice and heavily processed foods like breakfast cereals, frozen pizzas and other snacks.
But fret no more!
Whether you’re on a weight-loss journey or building muscle programme, these well-tested recipes will help you achieve your goal. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, we’ve covered it all!
Before we dive into the recipes let’s quickly answer how much protein we actually need and what vegetarian foods provide a proper amount of protein.
How much protein do we need?
The RDA, recommended daily allowance, is at a minimum of 0.36g of protein per pound of body weight (0.8g per kg bodyweight).
By percentage that would be roughly 10% of your daily caloric income. Note that is the minimum requirement for a non-active sedentary person to avoid a protein deficiency and get sick as a result. That means a full-on couch potato would just get by on that daily intake.
But how much protein does an active person need?
Of course this depends on your goals. But in general you can safely say if you want to build muscle you need more protein than that basic daily recommended allowance.
A higher protein intake is also likely to be beneficial for weight loss.
So, if you’re an active person, who does sports regularly, a healthy recommendation would be between 0.75g-1g of protein per lb of bodyweight per day (about 1.6-2.2 grams of protein per kg bodyweight).
By percentage that would be roughly 20-30% of your daily caloric income.
This is based on studies that have investigated the rates of something called muscle protein synthesis (essentially, new muscle being created) and how it differs depending on protein intake.
How much protein per vegetarian meal is realistic?
For most people, reasonably sized healthy meals have around 600kcal, give or take 200kcal.
If we want to hit protein requirements and aim to eat a wide variety of foods (not just cheese and processed meat replacements), here are the protein amounts we believe a vegetarian meal should at least have to be considered “high protein”:
Meal size
Protein
~300kcal
12.5g+
~400kcal
16.5g+
~500kcal
21g+
~600kcal
25g+
NOTE: high-protein vegetarian meals can easily go up to 35g+ protein per 600kcal, if using cheese, eggs and processed meat replacements.
We purposefully took lower numbers per meal as a benchmark, because it allows for a wider variety of foods while still hitting protein goals even for sporty people.
And let’s be honest, to make protein account for 20%+ of your daily caloric intake, you have to make compromises as a vegetarian.
This means either a heavy focus on eggs, cheese, soy, seitan and other meat replacements or including protein shakes in your diet.
Make sure to check out our free meal plans, where all the calculations are done for you:
As you can see there are many protein rich vegetarian foods around. But notice that some foods also come with a high amount of calories, like seeds and nuts.
But this list should help as a rough guideline. So, if you’re prepping a meal without a recipe make sure to use one or more of these ingredients for a protein boost.
How can I add protein to my vegetarian meal?
To an already-finished meal think of sprinkling nuts, cheese or nutritional yeast over the top. To replace meat within the meal try tofu, seitan, lentils or different types of cheese.
You can also add chia seeds to virtually any pancake batter – you’ll get a nice omega-3 boost, too!
Of course, the recipes below can use all types of the food in this list.
Recipe by:HurryTheFoodUp Bonus: works as a breakfast or snack
Boasting 22 grams of protein per serving due to the smoked tofu, cheddar cheese and eggs. Ever had a French Tarte Flambee? That’s what these egg muffins taste like!
Bonus: Swap Greek yogurt for “skyr”, if you have it available in your location for an extra protein boost.
This yogurt dish is relatively low in calories at roughly 303 kcal per serving. That’s enough to make a filling breakfast and still leave you plenty of calories left for the rest of your meals, if you are on a weight loss diet.
Bonus: works well for breakfast, lunch or dinner ????
Hearty and filling Farmer’s Breakfast. Full of protein and energy to keep you going. Perfect any time of the day. Ready in 30 mins. Embrace your rustic side.
Bonus: very quick and easy, can be stored for a while in the fridge, sooo yummy ????
This deliciously smooth cashew milkshake can be made any way you like – just follow the simple instructions and you’ll be drinking a mega shake in five minutes!
Spinach, chickpeas, eggs and feta make this dish a premium protein source for vegetarians. On top it’s easy, delicious and super healthy- a breakfast your body will thank you for!
This tempeh sandwich is THE new vegan sandwich. Mega tasty and super nutritional, it sets the new bar for all sandwich lovers out there. Whole grain sandwich bread is a great option to increase protein a little more.
After a cool and refreshing summer drink that is healthy too? Try our pineapple and spinach smoothie with fresh mint! Greek yogurt, flax seeds and cashews give this smoothie a serious protein boost!
Not sure whether lentils really work in a pancake batter? We’ve tried and tested this recipe and can say these pancakes are not only delicious, but this is also a clever way to increase the amount of protein per serving.
Red lentils belong to the legumes with the highest amount of protein. They’re also super quick to cook making them one of the “most efficient” plant based protein sources out there. Luckily, this soup is a staple in the Turkish cuisine, not because of its high protein content, but because of its good taste.
Bonus: suitable for a quick lunch, nice party snack
If you are looking for a satisfying high protein alternative to hummus and give this recipe a bash. This dip is also very versatile. Out of black beans? Use white or kidney beans instead!
Bonus: works as a side, but excellent as a main dish for a quick lunch
With feta, spinach, and chickpeas, this salad features a few of the best high protein ingredients the vegetarian diet has to offer. But not only that, the dressing is the secret star of this recipe. I was hooked for months!
With some mozzarella, spinach and whole grain tortillas you’ll get in a proper amount of protein. Granted, not the healthiest of all dishes in this list, but delicious nonetheless.
This ramen soup comes with a proper amount of vegetarian protein (egg, tofu, edamame, sesame seeds). What I really like about it though is the versatile spicy Thai style broth. Try it out with any veggie combo you like! Delicious.
The real star of this recipe is the honey mustard dressing! It’s such a good fit for the red onion, red bell pepper and lentils. Make this dish vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey. Wanna add some carbs? I love adding some simple microwaved potatoes as a side!
Bonus: new, fresh, tangy, works as a side dish or main meal
With beets and oranges as main ingredients this dish is best eaten in autumn and winter. Chickpeas and sunflower seeds contribute as a protein source. But hey, a salad is only as good as its dressing and this parsley dressing kicks ass, if I may say so!
Bonus: quick and nutritious, easy to make, full of health benefits
Full of protein, fiber and loads of other nutrients this halloumi salad will keep you feeling full for hours – and you’ll secretly be looking forward to more!
Bonus: amazingly tasty and nutritious, can be stored for a while in the fridge
This is the perfect vegetarian food for a busy weeknight dinner. 10 minutes prep time, then for 20 minutes in the oven. High in vitamins A, C and B6, protein and fiber.
Vegan stuffed peppers featuring tempeh, nutritional yeast and quinoa, three vegan sources high in protein. Quinoa is particularly cool, because it’s one of the few vegan foods that contain all nine essential amino acids!
Vegan Bolognese. It was about time we veganized the Italian classic. And we’re proud to say we were successful. Please welcome, the amazing Anti Bolognese!
These pizza pancakes are perfect for lunch or dinner – super simple and full of the most exciting base and taste combos make it the best of both worlds!
This traybake meal features two of my favorite ingredients, quinoa and halloumi. The latter is not only tasty but works as a pretty good meat replacement due to its consistency.
Dal khichdi is a very traditional Indian dish that works nicely as a weight loss dinner! It’s healthy, light but still filling, and a source of complete protein.
Bonus: Super versatile dish: don’t have kidney beans at home? Just use black beans.
Who said meat-free recipes can’t deliver? This meatless (aka vegan) chili proves that you can still enjoy your favourite meals, but in a new, animal friendly way.
Another healthy vegetarian traybake dinner with plenty of protein featuring broccoli, lentils and halloumi. So easy to make and 32 grams of protein each serving!
I think you should give this recipe a shot, how about writing the ingredients onto your shopping list right now? The recipe is right below! ????
Cut the broccoli into big florets and slice the red onion in half and then each half into four pieces lengthwise. Thinly slice the chilli pepper if using.
Seasoning
In the food processor add the cashews with 5 tbsp of water, basil, garlic, juice from ½ lime, ½ tsp salt, black pepper, and process until you have a pesto like texture (not fully smooth). Taste and add more salt per taste. If necessary add a little extra water too.
1 chili pepper,2 tbsp cashews,2 handful basil, fresh,2 clove garlic,½ lime,1 tsp salt,¼ tsp black pepper
Assembling
In a baking sheet place the lentils and thinly sliced chilli pepper if using. On top add the red onion, broccoli florets and halloumi.
Drizzle the pesto seasoning on top of the veggies and sprinkle remaining ½ tsp of salt + black pepper per taste. Brush the broccoli florets and halloumi with the olive oil.
Bake for 20 minutes or until the broccoli florets are tender. Turn on the grill or broiler of the oven at the highest temperature and bake for 3-5 minutes, until the veggies are golden brown.
Top with chopped fresh parsley or dill and serve immediately. Serve with a side of ciabatta bread.
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
63 High Protein Vegetarian Recipes: Focused on Fitness
Amount per Serving
Calories
561
% Daily Value*
Fat
17
g
26
%
Saturated Fat
7
g
44
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
2
g
Monounsaturated Fat
7
g
Sodium
1830
mg
80
%
Potassium
1455
mg
42
%
Carbohydrates
78
g
26
%
Fiber
19
g
79
%
Sugar
11
g
12
%
Protein
32
g
64
%
Vitamin A
1649
IU
33
%
Vitamin C
247
mg
299
%
Calcium
447
mg
45
%
Iron
7
mg
39
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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This tangy Dill Pickle Hummus is easy to make and great to have on hand during the summer for a refreshing and healthy snack. The food processor does most of the work and this unique hummus can be used in so many different ways. Mix it into pasta salad, spread it on sandwiches, or enjoy it in a salad. If you love dill pickles, you’ve got to make this delicious hummus recipe.
I tried some store-bought dill pickle hummus a few weeks ago, and I’ve been addicted ever since. I decided it was time to make my own version, and it did not disappoint. I’ve been eating it with crackers and veggies, but also adding it to pretty much every other meal I eat for some extra flavor, protein, and fiber. This Dill Pickle Hummus is refreshing, perfect for summer, and a great way to use up any dill you have in your garden.
Why You’ll Love This Tangy Dill Pickle Hummus
Refreshing – Pickles are a refreshing snack, and making hummus with them creates a creamy, tangy dip that’s perfect for summer. I like to serve this pickle-flavored hummus chilled with a side of veggies for a light and filling afternoon snack.
Flavorful – If you love dill pickles, you’ll enjoy this uniquely flavored hummus. It is flavored with fresh dill, dill pickles, and pickle juice. I also add a little bit of lemon juice and a few cloves of garlic. You can also make it spicy by adding some pickled jalapenos.
Versatile – I love having hummus on hand because it’s healthy, protein-packed, and can be used in many different ways. Hummus is always great with veggies and pita bread, but it can also be added to salad, pasta, toast, sandwiches, and more.
Benefits
Chickpeas – A high-fiber diet is imperative for good digestive health, and chickpeas contain 35 grams of fiber per cup of cooked beans. Beans have a mixture of soluble and insoluble fiber, which greatly benefits the digestive process. Soluble fiber absorbs water in the digestive tract, helping regulate the absorption of nutrients. It also binds to bile in the digestive tract, removing toxins that would otherwise recirculate throughout the body. Insoluble fiber helps bulk up our stool, ensuring that things run smoothly.
Tahini – Tahini is a paste made from sesame seeds, perfect for dressings and sauce recipes. It’s a great source of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Although tahini contains a small amount of saturated fat, most of its fats are polyunsaturated (omega-6 fatty acids) and monounsaturated, which are great for overall health.
Dill Pickle Hummus Recipe Ingredients
Chickpeas – I used two cans of chickpeas for this hummus recipe. You can easily adjust the amount if you want more or less hummus, though. I like to boil my chickpeas with a bit of baking soda for 20 minutes beforehand, as it helps soften them, but that isn’t necessary.
Tahini – You should be able to find tahini at most grocery stores, in the same section as the peanut butter. Tahini is a paste made with sesame seeds and has a nice toasty flavor. I use it often in recipes, and it’s a staple ingredient for traditional hummus.
Pickles – Both the pickle juice and the pickles are used in this hummus recipe, so make sure to use a brand of pickles you know you enjoy. I find that the pickles sold in the refrigerated section at the grocery store tend to have better flavor than the jarred pickles, but either will work.
Dill – The pickles add a nice dill flavor to the hummus, but I also like adding some fresh dill. Dry dill has a much stronger flavor than fresh dill, so I usually stick to mostly fresh and just a pinch of dried dill.
Lemon Juice – Lemon juice is commonly used in most hummus recipes, so although we already have acid from the pickle juice, I wanted to add a little lemon flavor. You can leave it out if you prefer.
Garlic – One or two cloves of fresh garlic add so much flavor, but garlic powder can be used if you prefer a milder garlic flavor.
How To Make Refreshing Dill Pickle Hummus
Optional: For creamier hummus, you can boil the chickpeas with 1/4 teaspoon baking soda for 20 minutes. Drain and then rinse with cold water and let cool for a few minutes before making the hummus.
To a food processor or blender, add in the tahini, pickle juice, lemon juice, garlic, and 1/2 cup of chopped pickles. Blend until combined and slightly creamy. It may be challenging to achieve a completely creamy texture in the food processor, but aim for as much blending as possible.
Next, add in the chickpeas, fresh dill, dried dill, and salt. Turn the food processor on and blend until the desired texture is achieved. If your hummus looks too thick, you can drizzle in extra pickle juice or olive oil until it reaches the desired consistency. If your hummus is not thick enough, add in extra chickpeas.
Once the hummus reaches your desired texture, add the remaining 1/2 cup of chopped pickles and pickled jalapenos, if you want some extra heat. Give the hummus a few pulses so that the pickles are mixed in, but not completely blended up. Add any additional salt or cayenne pepper needed and enjoy.
Recipe Frequently Asked Questions
This recipe is vegan and gluten-free.
Can hummus be frozen? Yes, you can freeze hummus, although it may not retain the same creamy texture after thawing. I recommend freezing for up to 3 months in an air-tight container.
How long does leftover hummus last? Leftover hummus should last for about 4-5 days when stored in the refrigerator in an air-tight container.
What can be used in place of the chickpeas? Chickpeas are a traditional ingredient in hummus, but white beans can be easily substituted.
Can dry dill be used? I prefer using fresh dill because it has a milder flavor, allowing you to add more without it becoming too overpowering. It also has a nice fresh taste. Dry dill can be used if needed, though. I recommend adding 1 teaspoon and then adjusting as needed.
Have a question I didn’t answer? Ask me in the comment section below, and I will get back to you ASAP!
This tangy Dill Pickle Hummus is easy to make and great to have on hand during the summer, for a refreshing and healthy snack. The food processor does most of the work and this unique hummus can be used in so many different ways. Mix it into pasta salad, spread it on sandwiches or enjoy it in salads. If you love dill pickles, you’ve got to make this delicious hummus recipe.
Ingredients
2 (15 oz) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup tahini
2 cups diced pickles, divided
1–2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2–4 tablespoons pickle juice, depending on what consistency you want your hummus
Optional: pickled jalapenos, to taste if you want heat
1/2 teaspoon salt, or more to taste
Serve with: fresh veggies, pita bread or crackers.
Instructions
Optional: for creamier hummus, you can boil the chickpeas with 1/4 teaspoon baking soda for 20 minutes. Drain and then rinse with cold water and let cool a few minutes before making the hummus.
To a food processor, or blender, add in the tahini, pickle juice, lemon juice, garlic and 1/2 cup of chopped pickles. Blend until combined and slightly creamy, it many be hard to get completely creamy in the food processor but you want it as blended up as you can get it.
Next, add in the chickpeas, fresh dill, dried dill and salt. Turn food processor on and blend until desired texture is achieved. If your hummus is looking too thick, you can drizzle in extra pickle juice, or olive oil, until it thins out. If your hummus is not thick enough, add in extra chickpeas.
Once the hummus is to your desired texture, add in the remaining 1/2 cup chopped pickles, and pickled jalapenos if you want some extra heat. Just give the hummus a few pulses so that the pickles are mixed in, but not completely blended up. Add any extra salt, or cayenne pepper, if needed and enjoy.
Notes
This hummus recipe makes about 2 cups of hummus. Each serving is 1/4 cup.
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Prep Time: 15 mins
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