8 Unexpected Sources of Plant Based Protein

You don’t have to get plant-based protein from well-known foods like beans or tofu. Adding everyday foods that have more protein than most people know to meals can help keep energy levels up and nutrition balanced. These items are easy to find, easy to use, and easy to add to snacks or regular recipes. Trying out these different foods can help you eat a wider variety of foods while still enjoying fresh flavors and a lot of different ways to use them. The options below indicate that protein can be found in unexpected locations.

1. Green Peas

Green peas have a lot of plant-based protein, fiber, and natural sweetness that you might not expect. You may put them into soups, salads, or pasta to get more nutrients quickly. Because they have a moderate flavor, they go well with many different spices and vegetables. Frozen peas are easy to store and hold their nutritional content well. A lot of people don’t think of peas as a source of protein, but they are still one of the easiest ways to make meals better with little effort.

2. Quinoa

People know that quinoa has a complete protein profile, but they don’t realize how versatile it is in everyday dishes. It cooks rapidly, tastes like nuts, and can be used in salads, grain bowls, or warm side dishes. Quinoa stays fluffy, which makes it a good match for veggies, herbs, and simple seasonings. Parents and busy home cooks can make it ahead of time and store it well after cooking so they can use it all week. This grain-like seed is still a good way to get more protein.

3. Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds are small, but they include a lot of plant-based protein and a delicious crunch. You can sprinkle them on salads, yogurt, soups, or mix them into spreads to give them more texture. These seeds are also great in trail mix or baked goods, so you can use them in a lot of different recipes. They have a neutral taste that makes them easy to mix into both sweet and savory meals. Having a little container on hand lets you rapidly add protein without affecting the taste of the whole meal.

4. Oats

Oats are a good source of protein and stable carbs. Because they are thick, they work well in breakfast bowls, smoothies, and baked goods. They make a creamy base when they are soaked or cooked, which goes well with fruits, nuts, or spices. Oats are especially useful for busy families because they last a long time and cook quickly. They are a balanced method to get additional plant-based protein into your daily diet without having to do any extra work. You may eat them hot or cold.

5. Broccoli

Broccoli has a little bit of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins. It keeps its shape and provides a delicious crunch to foods when steamed, roasted, or added to stir fries. You may simply add it to grains, sauces, and other vegetables because its flavor is so mild. You may use either fresh or frozen broccoli, and both will keep their nutrients when you cook them in simple ways. This common vegetable is still a good and cheap method to acquire more protein without changing your diet too much.

6. Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are recognized for being able to soak up water and make things thick, but they also have a lot of plant-based protein. When you use them in smoothies, yogurt, or overnight oats, they make a gel-like covering that feels smooth and delicious. Their moderate taste makes them great for breakfast and snacks without dominating other foods. Chia seeds are easy to use every day because they keep well and don’t need to be cooked. They are still an easy way to add more protein and fiber to meals.

7. Lentil Chips

Lentil chips are a crunchy snack that is different from potato chips. They have more plant-based nutrition because they are made from legumes. They are tasty on their own or with dips like hummus or salsa because they are light and have a mild flavor. They are baked instead than fried in many forms, so they are a satisfying choice that still seems light. They are easy to pack for work or school, which makes them great for families with a lot going on. This snack is a surprising way to get lentil-based protein.

8. Edamame

Edamame is a great source of plant-based protein that is easy to get and eat. You may find these young soybeans fresh or frozen, and they cook quickly by steaming or boiling them. You can add a little salt, lemon, or light seasoning to make them taste better. You can eat edamame as a snack or add it to salads, rice bowls, and noodle dishes. It is one of the easiest protein-rich foods to add to any diet because it is easy to find and quick to make.