Are you following a plant-based diet and need to boost your protein intake? These nutritious high-protein vegan recipes are here to banish any mealtime madness! They’re all packed with veggies, loaded with protein, and easy enough for beginners.
Many people think that you can’t get enough protein on a vegan diet.
But I’m here as your knight in shining armor to prove that theory WRONG.
I’ve rounded up a collection of amazing high-protein vegan recipes that pack a major nutritional punch.
Seriously, they’ll satisfy the protein requirements of even the most dedicated bodybuilders.
I’m not kidding!
Whether you’re looking for quick and easy dinners, meal-prep lunch ideas, or something new for burger night, these wholesome vegan meals will keep you fighting fit.
Now, let’s get cooking!
Can You Get Enough Protein on a Vegan Diet?
Many people transitioning to a vegan diet worry that they won’t be eating enough protein.
But there is tons of high-quality protein in plant-based foods!
From beans and legumes to nuts and seeds, you’ll be able to hit your protein requirements on a vegan diet with no issues whatsoever.
Phew!
How Many Grams of Protein Do You Need Per Day?
According to Healthline, the Dietary Reference Intake for protein is around 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight.
If you calculate this for someone who weighs 150 pounds, they’ll need around 54 grams of protein to keep them ticking over.
Also, check 35 High-Protein Vegetarian Recipes To Fuel Your Day
Best Vegan Protein Sources
There are several incredible vegan protein sources that you can choose from.
To give you a few options, here are some excellent sources that you’ll adore (and how much protein they boast per 100g!).
- Seitan: 75g
- Hemp seeds: 33g
- Tempeh: 19g
- Flax Seeds: 18g
- Chia seeds: 17g
- Oats: 16g
- Nuts: 15-20g (depending on the type of nut)
- Edamame: 11g
- Lentils (cooked): 9g
- Chickpeas (cooked): 9g
- Tofu: 8g
- Beans (cooked): 6g
- Nutritional yeast: 8g
- Green peas: 5g
- Quinoa: 5g
35 High-Protein Vegan Recipes
Vegan Chickpea Curry
PROTEIN: 18g
READY IN: 20 minutes
This vegan chickpea curry blends protein-rich chickpeas with a hearty tomato base and flavorsome Indian spices for the ultimate weeknight dish.
And don’t even get me started on the base of yellow onion and garlic that turns this recipe into an aromatic sensation.
Serve it with fluffy naan bread or a steaming pile of basmati rice, and you’ll struggle to justify getting takeout for at least a week!
Vegan Poke Bowl
PROTEIN: 19g
READY IN: 30 minutes
I genuinely can’t get enough of this vegan poke bowl.
I’ve always been in love with a vibrant lunch that’s loaded with crunchy rainbow veggies and a hit of spice.
But it’s the sweetness from the mango and the protein punch from the crispy tofu that make this one of my go-to high-protein vegan recipes.
Oh, and the best part?
It’s ready in minutes and refrigerates like a dream!
And if you’re looking for a hint of crunch, a few nori chips would be a great addition!
Vegan Stir-Fry Noodles With Crispy Tofu
PROTEIN: 22g
READY IN: 20 minutes
You’ll need just a handful of wholesome ingredients to bring these vegan stir-fry noodles to life.
The pan-fried tofu lends this dish a delicious crunch, but the veggies will always be the stars of the show.
Bok choi, red bell peppers, carrots, spring onions? You name it – this dish has got it.
Throw in the rich and perfectly nutty sesame sauce, and it’s easy to see why this bad boy has a firm place in my recipe binder!
Chickpea Salad Sandwich
PROTEIN: 19g
READY IN: 15 minutes
A delicious vegan sandwich made with nutrient-dense seeded bread and a ridiculously creamy chickpea filling?
Count me in!
This sandwich is one of my go-to lunchtime meals for when I want something fresh but simply can’t face slaving over a hot stove.
Just pulse the chickpeas in a food processor until they’re creamy, spread the mix over some bread, and top it with veggies.
Hummus Pasta
PROTEIN: 22g
READY IN: 20 minutes
Instead of mopping up your leftover hummus with pita bread, why not use it to create this incredible hummus pasta?
This delicious dish is made with tangy sun-dried tomatoes, zesty lemon juice, fresh basil, and creamy hummus to create a super-satisfying dinner.
What’s more, the minimal prep time and basic ingredients list mean it’s a breeze for beginners.
Vegan Protein Salad
PROTEIN: 30g
READY IN: 40 minutes
This high-protein salad is a flavor sensation.
But it’s also packed with vital nutrients and interesting textures that’ll have you piling your plate with seconds!
It boasts whole grains, provides a ridiculous amount of protein per serving, and you can easily customize the ingredients to your liking.
Better yet, it stores for up to 3 days in the fridge without going soggy!
Vegan Meatballs
PROTEIN: 24g
READY IN: 45 minutes
Vegan meatballs that taste just like the real deal? Sign me UP.
Not only are they high in protein (thanks to the black beans and TVP!), but the Italian seasoning and soy sauce balance the dish beautifully.
Oh, and the umami goodness and healthy fats you get from the nutritional yeast and almond butter?
Glorious.
Toss these balls of goodness in with a bunch of spaghetti, or eat them with a refreshing salad for a light lunch!
Sesame Crusted Tofu
PROTEIN: 18g
READY IN: 35 min
If you’re looking to boost your protein intake, these creative sesame-encrusted tofu steaks have got your back!
They are super juicy on the inside.
But the coating of nutty sesame seeds and the process of roasting them give these delicious squares an unbelievable crunch.
Shove them inside a sandwich for a quick lunch, or serve them alongside Asian greens and some edamame for a well-rounded meal.
Bean Chili with Cornbread Waffles
PROTEIN: 34g
READY IN: 1 hour 25 minutes
If you think bean chili isn’t your thing, prepare to have your mind blown by this comforting dish.
The high-protein content will keep you full until breakfast time, and the fact that it’s cooked in an instant pot makes this recipe ridiculously easy.
It’s also made with simple and wholesome ingredients like diced tomatoes, onions, vegan ground beef, and green chilis (for a hint of spice!).
Quick Lentil Soup
PROTEIN: 24g
READY IN: 25 minutes
Another incredibly delicious soup recipe that I can’t get enough of!
This is one of my favorite meals to whip up during the fall.
If you’re wondering why, it’s packed with protein-rich lentils, warming turmeric, and earthy cumin for an uber-intense flavor profile!
And you don’t even need to blend the soup as it automatically cooks up thick and super creamy.
Vegan Steak
PROTEIN: 50g
READY IN: 50 minutes
You’ll forget all about all-American steakhouses after your first bite of this tender and savory vegan steak.
It’sIt’s a fabulous option if you’re easing into the vegan lifestyle.
B as the hearty beets, aromatic onion, and mix of classic spices will impress even the most devoted plant-based eaters.
It’s a slight labor of love, but the perfectly charred exterior of the steaks is worth every minute of cooking time!
Vegan Gado Gado Salad with Tempeh
PROTEIN: 29g
READY IN: 40 minutes
This vegan Gado Gado salad is a veggie-filled delight that’s jazzed up with a squeeze of lime and crunchy mung bean sprouts.
The peanut butter gives the dish a rich and creamy nuttiness, but I adore the slight sweetness you get from the maple syrup.
Throw in the fact that tempeh is a nutrient-dense complete protein, and you’ll understand why I whip this up at least once a week!
Tofu Coconut Curry
PROTEIN: 12g
READY IN: 30 minutes
This rich and indulgent Thai-inspired curry is loaded with good-for-you plant protein and vibrant veggies.
Oh, and the generous quantity of tofu will keep you full for hours!
Plus, the addition of butternut squash gives the recipe a smooth mouthfeel that you just can’t beat.
It’s the ultimate comforting and cozy dish when the cool weather starts to bite!
Vegan Katsu Curry with Tofu
PROTEIN: 21g
READY IN: 1 hour
I’m obsessed with this vegan katsu curry as it tastes so darn authentic.
From the glorious panko breading to the vegetable-filled curry sauce, it’s an ideal alternative to calorie-laden takeout.
And thanks to the hefty amount of tofu, you’ll never have to worry about getting enough protein!
Vegan Sesame Beef Udon Noodles
PROTEIN: 30g
READY IN: 30 minutes
There’s nothing better than a simple stir fry when you’re in a time crunch.
These sesame garlic noodles are served with meaty seitan beef strips for a flavorful dish that tastes like it’s straight out of a Mongolian restaurant.
Just throw the thick udon noodles in a pan, add your seitan, stir-fry the veggies, and garnish with fresh cilantro for a dinner staple that’s ready in a flash!
Turmeric Chickpea Soup
PROTEIN: 15g
READY IN: 25 minutes
When I’m looking for a winter warmer that’ll help me hit my daily protein goals, I’ll reach for this turmeric chickpea soup.
It’s packed with fresh veggies and roasted chickpeas for a hint of crunch.
But it’s the underlying taste of aromatic garlic that really makes it special!
Lasagna Soup
PROTEIN: 22g
READY IN: 8 hours 20 minutes
This interesting take on a classic Italian lasagna makes a welcome change if you’re used to traditional soups.
The fact that it’s made I love that it’s in a single pot (hello, easy clean-up!) is amazing.
But the almost meaty texture you get from the red lentils and mushrooms makes them the perfect alternatives to ground beef.
Oh, and don’t forget the vegan tofu ricotta for those next-level cheesy flavors!
Garlic Sesame Noodles
PROTEIN: 15g
READY IN: 15 minutes
These quick and easy garlic sesame noodles are a wonderful addition to any vegan meal plan.
The creamy sesame sauce is obviously a major draw.
But the earthy tahini, protein-rich edamame, and crunchy peanuts are the cherries on top of this fantastic dish.
Literally!
Black Beans and Rice
PROTEIN: 16g
READY IN: 50 minutes
If you’re a fan of black beans, tender roasted veggies, and crispy plantains, this recipe is bound to satisfy your carb cravings.
Add a few slices of avocado for a hit of healthy fats, and you’ll be transported to a Caribbean beach in minutes.
Well, close enough!
Mushroom Lentil Loaf
PROTEIN: 16g
READY IN: 1 hour 30 minutes
When I’m craving something hearty, easy-to-make, and packed with plant-based proteins, this mushroom lentil loaf never disappoints.
The mushrooms and lentils give this meatloaf an unbeatable savory texture, while the walnuts and ground flax add bulk.
And the tomato paste gives the dish a surprising richness and depth that I love.
Vegan Burrito Bowl (Chipotle Inspired!)
PROTEIN: 23g
READY IN: 40 min
This recipe combines black beans, cilantro lime rice, avocado, and fresh homemade salsa for the ultimate Mexican fiesta.
It’s bursting with color (so it looks amazing!), but the impressive protein content and a dollop of Pico de Gallo take things to new heights.
An easy recipe that’s ideal for a hassle-free lunch!
Tofu Quinoa Stir Fry
PROTEIN: 24g
READY IN: 50 minutes
You won’t believe how easy this high-protein tofu quinoa stir fry is to cook.
It combines marinated tofu, fluffy quinoa, crunchy mixed veggies, and a soy and sesame-based sauce for the ultimate Asian-inspired dish.
The base recipe uses mushrooms, snap peas, broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots.
But you can switch these out for your favorite stir-fried veggies.
Anything goes when dinner is this colorful!
Classic Lentil Burgers
PROTEIN: 12g
READY IN: 45 minutes
If you’ve never tried lentil burgers, then prepare yourself to see things in a whole new way.
These veggie burgers are loaded with plant-based protein and more than 25% of your daily iron requirements.
So, they’ll perk you up in seconds!
To make things even more appealing, the blitzed mixture of lentils, onions, and carrots makes this an easy way to convince kiddos to hit their 5-a-day.
Serve them with crispy baked polenta fries for an extra hit of complex carbohydrates!
Red Lentil Pasta Recipe
PROTEIN: 17g
READY IN: 40 minutes
This straightforward pasta recipe uses a range of easy-to-find ingredients to make those hectic weeks feel less pressured.
It combines a soffrito with warming spices for a veggie-rich recipe that’s loaded with powerful plant protein.
You can thank the lentils for that!
Roasted Cauliflower Broccoli Bowls
PROTEIN: 27g
READY IN: 40 minutes
These roasted cauliflower broccoli bowls pair perfectly with everything from herby slices of farinata to heaping piles of brown rice.
And to make things even sweeter, it’s so easy to make.
Simply roast the cauliflower, steam the broccoli, and slather your tender veggies with the indulgent tahini dressing.
It’s an ideal choice if you’re avoiding animal protein but still want to hit your fiber and protein goals for the day!
Sesame Tofu Onigirazu
PROTEIN: 17g
READY IN: 1 hour
I honestly couldn’t stop eating this sesame tofu onigirazu recipe when I first tried it.
These small bundles of joy are essentially portable sushi sandwiches stuffed with sesame-encrusted tofu.
So, they’re the perfect way to take Meal Prep Mondays to new heights.
Pack them with radishes and cucumber for crunch, and slather them with Siracha or vegan mayo for moistness and tons of extra flavor.
Easy Vegan Quiche
PROTEIN: 12g
READY IN: 1 hour 30 minutes
If I’m not feeling a portion of vegan egg muffins, this easy vegan quiche is a worthy contender.
It has an incredibly smooth texture that just soaks up all the flavor from the sweet caramelized onions, juicy tomatoes, and sauteed mushrooms.
And the buttery and perfectly flaky crust?
It’ll have you cutting off slice after slice!
Pasta e Ceci Pasta with Chickpeas
PROTEIN: 19g
READY IN: 30 minutes
This budget-friendly recipe is loaded with protein, fresh herbs, and healthy fats.
It’s made with chickpeas, a drizzle of olive oil, and a delicious base of aromatics that give the entire dish a well-rounded bite.
Oh, and did I mention that it’s absolutely loaded with vitamins, fiber, and essential minerals?
Talk about a hole-in-one weeknight staple!
Vegan Black Bean Soup
PROTEIN: 13.5g
READY IN: 45 minutes
If you’ve been looking for a way to use up that can of black beans in the cupboard, this vegan black bean soup is glorious.
Not only is it loaded with nourishing ingredients, but it’s the perfect alternative to greasy takeout!
Seriously – move over burritos, there’s a new sheriff in town.
I love the crunch you get from the red onion and bell peppers.
But feel free to balance the fiery Mexican spices with diced sweet potatoes and slices of avocado!
Vegan Sloppy Joes
PROTEIN: 14.4g
READY IN: 30 minutes
Add a hefty helping of plant-based power to burger night with these vegan sloppy joes!
The smoky and savory spices work beautifully with hearty red lentils. But don’t be afraid to create a more textured version with green lentils.
Don’t worry, they’ll be mellowed out by the sharp and tangy tomato sauce!
Fried Tempeh Bowls
PROTEIN: 17g
READY IN: 30 minutes
These fried tempeh bowls come together in just 30 minutes, making them ideal for those days when you can’t face cooking!
The bite-sized and golden pieces of tempeh are seriously sinful.
But honestly, it’s the caramelized glaze from the coconut sugar that always keeps me coming back for more.
With plenty of protein in every mouthful and a low calorie count, it’s a dish that’s almost too good to be true!
Crispy Sesame Tofu and Mushroom Lettuce Wraps
PROTEIN: 18g
READY IN: 1 hour
These crispy sesame tofu and mushroom lettuce wraps are light, nutritious, and bursting with color.
It’s the perfect Asian-inspired dish if you’re low-carb, and the moreish tofu and oyster mushrooms won’t make you miss meat one bit.
But the real star of the show is the spicy almond-sesame sauce that’s equal parts rich, creamy, and nutty!
Trust me, this recipe is a total tour-de-force.
Plant Bolognese Sauce
PROTEIN: 13g
READY IN: 2 hours
If you’re wading into vegan waters but are missing meat-based Italian sauces, this Bolognese sauce is the perfect antidote.
Although the sauce takes a while to reduce, the herbiness and acidity of the end result is worth waiting for.
Stick with dried porcini mushrooms and soy mince, or switch things up with hearty lentils.
The choice is entirely yours!
Red Lentil Soup
PROTEIN: 28g
READY IN: 30 minutes
Is there anything better than a chunky and wholesome soup to soothe your sorrows?
I didn’t think so!
This tasty recipe combines red lentils with warming spices, carrots for sweetness, and a rich vegetable broth that dials the savory factor up to 11.
I love eating this with a hunk of crusty whole wheat bread, but you can easily down a bowl without any sides.
It’s just that good.
Vegan Enchiladas
PROTEIN: 15g
READY IN: 45 minutes
I make these vegan enchiladas almost every week, and they always get nods of approval at the dinner table.
This dish is a healthy take on this Mexican staple and incorporates tofu, black beans, spinach, and bell peppers for an impressive vitamin and protein boost.
You won’t see a signature cheese pull when you serve these guys up.
But the smoky chipotle flavor you get from the red enchilada sauce is so much better.
FAQ
Not getting enough protein is one of the most common concerns for anyone looking to go plant-based.
But don’t worry.
Most vegetarians and vegans eat plenty of high-protein meals!
Just keep an eye out for dishes containing ingredients like hemp seeds, nutritional yeast, and even chickpea flour!
If we’re going by protein content per 100g, seitan is the clear winner with a whopping 75g! For a gluten-free alternative, tempeh is your best option.
To increase your protein intake, space out your meals, have more snacks, try a vegan protein powder, or add nuts and seeds to your morning smoothie or overnight oats.
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