When beginning a vegetarian lifestyle, a common concern is that your diet may lack sufficient protein. Though this may be true in some cases, there are several vegetarian-friendly ways to ensure that your diet is jam-packed with this essential nutrient.
For starters, let's address one of the most common myths being that "plants don't provide a sufficient amount of protein." This is incorrect, as many plant-based foods are incredibly high in protein. All of which you can eat to ensure that you're following a protein-packed vegetarian diet. Keep scrolling to discover which plant-based tips and recipes you can follow to safely up your protein intake.
Greek Yogurt
There's nothing quite like a bowl of fresh, cold Greek yogurt. Whether you're a fan of sweet yogurt or tart yogurt, this dish is undoubtedly one to include in your vegetarian diet. An easy way to up your protein intake, Greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein.
Aside from its high protein intake, Greek yogurt is also an incredibly versatile ingredient. Purchasing plain greek yogurt allows you to get creative in the kitchen and mix in fun flavors. Plain Greek yogurt is also one of the healthiest yogurt options, as it's commonly free of processed sugars and additives.
Use Greek yogurt as a topping, add it to your meal or enjoy it as a healthy snack option. Eating yogurt regularly can help you and your kids maintain a healthy balanced diet.
Keep reading to learn more about favorite protein-packed vegetarian greek yogurt recipes.
Greek Yogurt Recipes
Frozen Protein Yogurt Bites
These Frozen Yogurt Protein Bites are the perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day. Easy to make and packed with healthy, wholesome ingredients, they're a treat that both the kiddos and adults will enjoy. Make sure you always have these delicious treats on hand by making them in large batches to store in the freezer until you're ready to eat. With just a few wholesome ingredients, these delicious yogurt bites can be prepped in five minutes.
Though yogurt has a great deal of protein on its own, in this recipe we use three scoops of our Chocolate Protein Powder Nutritional Booster for an added boost of protein. A complete source of protein, this protein powder is made with a blend of pea protein powder, chicory root fiber, chia seeds, beneficial probiotics and monk fruit. While it's sweet taste may be deceiving, a single serving has only two grams of sugar. It's gluten free, kosher, high in fiber and vegan. This protein powder is an excellent way to sneak more protein into your vegetarian diet.
Gluten free Peanut Butter Cake
We'd argue that this protein-packed cake may be the most mouthwatering recipe out there! While cake and protein don't often complement each other, in this recipe, they do! This protein-packed cake is the perfect recipe for you if you're a fan of peanut butter. It's easy to make and takes the guesswork out of gluten free baking by using our Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour to create a true kitchen masterpiece. Loaded with high protein ingredients like peanut butter and Greek yogurt, this vegetarian and vegan cake recipe packs a powerful protein punch.
Now, if this sweet Gluten Free Peanut Butter Cake Recipe wasn't enough to get your mouth watering, we've topped it with a tasty peanut butter glaze. In this glaze, peanut butter, milk, salt and powdered sugar are combined to take this cake to the next level. Who knew baking protein into dessert could be so easy?
Strawberry Yogurt Muesli Cereal Bowl
If you're an early riser and plan to head to the gym soon after you wake up, you may be searching for a protein-packed breakfast to fuel your morning activities. This Strawberry Yogurt Muesli Cereal Bowl keeps you energized no matter what's on the schedule for the day. Fiber and protein-rich ingredients like Old Country Style Muesli and Greek yogurt are used to create a truly nutritious breakfast dish. A classic European breakfast, muesli, is low in sugar and high in protein, making it an exceptional meal to start your day.
If you have yet to try old country style muesli, it's a quick way to change your morning cereal routine. Bob's Red Mill Muesli is full of hearty high-energy oats, almonds, walnuts and additional wholesome ingredients. When mixed, these tasty ingredients serve as a great alternative to sugary cereals. Strawberries and Greek yogurt are added to the dish for a creamy over-the-top texture that will satisfy both your sweet and salty cravings. If you are searching for a protein-packed breakfast, then you've found it!
Use Protein Powder
Wondering how to eat more protein as a vegetarian? Add protein powder to your meals. It may sound like a simple step and it is! The right protein powder has the power to supply you with more than just protein. High-quality protein powders are full of essential vitamins and nutrients that can help your body build muscle, repair tissues and remain healthy and strong. There are several different ways that you can incorporate protein powder into your daily meals. From smoothies to baked goods, this powder can be used in a variety of ways to level up your meals.
There are several different types of protein powder. The most popular plant-based version being soy, pea and hemp. Each of these powders is derived from plant-based sources and provides high-quality proteins and essential amino acids. Keep scrolling for delicious ways to incorporate these protein powders into your diet.
Protein Powder Recipes
Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins
If you're a fan of sweet pastries, then you're bound to love these Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins. Made with the protein powder of your choice, these muffins are a fun way to up your intake of nutrients. To create a wholesome muffin batter that is packed with protein, ingredients like Organic Coconut Flour, poppyseeds and applesauce are mixed. Enjoy these muffins as a healthy dessert, or nutrient-rich breakfast on the go. They're easy to bake and make sneaking protein into your vegetarian diet a breeze!
Hemp Protein Truffles
Is chocolate your sweet of choice? If so, then you'll love this next protein-filled treat. These delicious Hemp Protein Truffles are filled with a rich chocolate-y taste that practically melts in your mouth. Plus, they're simple to make! Just combine a plant-based protein like Bob's Red Mill Hemp Protein Powder, with additional hearty ingredients like Organic Rolled Oats and coconut flour for the perfect dessert-like texture. Made in just twenty minutes, this recipe yields ten guilt-free truffles.
Berry Peachy Hemp Smoothie
Peaches and summertime just go together. This Berry Peachy Hemp Smoothie is the perfect summertime treat to refresh your taste buds and your menu! Bob's Red Mill Hemp Protein Powder, Oat Bran Cereal, sliced peaches and fresh blueberry are just a few of the many nutritious ingredients in this smoothie. With a taste that kids adore, if you're attending a kid-friendly gathering or have little ones at home, prepare to make an extra-large batch.
Eat More Quinoa
Quinoa, commonly referred to as a grain, is actually a gluten free seed. Rich in nutrients, quinoa is an excellent plant-based source of complete protein. Plus, it provides all of the essential amino acids. This powerful grain is an excellent addition to any diet. However, it's especially useful to those following a gluten free, vegan, or vegetarian diet. It's a great way to increase your protein and fiber naturally!
On its own, quinoa has an earthy flavor that makes it ideal for soups, salads and grain-based dishes. It's a nutritional alternative to white rice and adds a delightful crunch to whatever dish it's used in. Check out a few of our favorite high-protein quinoa recipes.
Quinoa Recipes
Quinoa Salad
One of our favorite flavor combinations and nutritious summer dishes, this Quinoa Salad combines sweet black currants and crushed hazelnuts with our nutty Organic Quinoa Grain. Top it all with olive oil and vinegar for a protein-packed lunch ready to fuel all of your summertime adventures.
Quinoa Tortillas
There's nothing like showing up to a Backyard BBQ with a plate of homemade tortillas. If you're searching for a gluten free, high-protein wheat alternative, try these Quinoa Tortillas. They're made with just three simple ingredients—Bob's Red Mill Organic Quinoa Flour, water and a dash of sea salt. For an added flavor boost, get creative and mix in your favorite spices and herbs. These tortillas are so delicious even your non-vegetarian guests will be swooning for a bite.
We hope that these simple tips and recipes have taught you how to eat more protein on a vegetarian diet. Whatever protein-packed dish you choose to make next, we know it will be something your fellow vegetarian guests will love.
Do you have a vegetarian protein tip you'd like to share? Let us know what it is in the comment below! From everyone at Bob's Red Mill, thank you for reading!
