(Updated May 6, 2020) | While it isn’t always given an accurate representation, optimal health, nutrition, and fitness go hand in hand with choosing a plant-based diet. Due to the fact that a plant-based diet is naturally anti-inflammatory, it may help quicken recovery times and even improve mental clarity, allowing many top athletes to stay focused.
Whether you’re already an athlete in training, fitness fanatic, health-conscious, or just want to feel like one—keep reading for 11 high-protein, vegan meals that will have you feeling energized to do your gym-thing.
11 High Protein Meals For People Who Want To Eat Like An Athlete
1. Simple Chana Masala
Served with some basmati rice and steamed veggies, this Indian recipe is made with protein-packed chickpeas (chana) and is oil-free. This 30-minute recipe is so simple, tasty, and healthy—it’s perfect for a hearty, post-workout meal and is meal-prep friendly if you enjoy cooking your food in bulk.
Get the recipe here.
2. Hot Eggplant and Seitan Open-Face Sandwiches
Seitan is a vegan meat-like product made from wheat protein; therefore it packs a hearty dose of those amino acids! There are a number of ways in which you can cook seitan, but this eggplant and seitan open sandwich recipe is certainly up there with the best.
Get the recipe here.
3. Fire-Roasted Tomato Pasta with Chickpeas and Arugula
Chickpeas are filling and boast a high amount of protein—especially when paired with the carbohydrates from pasta they make the perfect training fuel. However—training or not—this meal is sure to be a hit with any foodie.
Get the recipe here.
4. Tempeh ‘Sloppy Joe’
Tempeh, often seen in a block-like form, is simply fermented soybeans. Soybeans are rich in protein and are a highly versatile ingredient in the kitchen. They can even be used to make vegan ‘bacon’ if a sloppy joe isn’t your thing.
Get the recipe here.
5. One-Pot Red Lentil Dahl
This protein-dense lentil dahl features ample spice, flavour, warmth and comfort—and it’s made using only one pot! (You can totally go back for guilt-free seconds!)
Get the recipe here.
6. Vegan Quinoa Sushi with Tofu ‘Steaks’ and Chickpea Bean ‘Egg’
This recipe is perfect for experienced foodies who are up for creating a great meal. Quinoa is a complete protein as it contains all nine essential amino acids. When served with tofu and chickpeas—you’ll definitely be getting those ve-gains.
Get the recipe here.
7. Tacos With Soyrizo and Beans
Tacos are a beloved Mexican dish. When filled with soy ‘chorizo’ and refried beans, they make the perfect, protein-dense meal or appetiser. These tacos are exploding with flavor and are sure to fill up rumbling bellies.
Get the recipe here.
8. Cookie Dough Porridge
This ‘cookie dough’ porridge is the perfect recipe to start your morning. It will fuel you up from the middle of the day until dinner, or replenish your energy after a training session. Oats are also a brilliant food for reducing stress and have high amounts of protein.
Get the recipe here.
9. Quinoa Corn Edamame Salad
Not only is this an easy, fresh, and delicious vegan meal (or side dish), it’s also gluten-free. Quinoa is a brilliant plant source of protein with all essential amino acids. Edamame beans also have a high protein content. Paired together, quionoa and edamame beans make a fantastic and uber-flavorsome combo!
Get the recipe here.
10. Mac N’ Chard
Chard is a dark leafy green that is packed with nutrients, including protein. “Yum!” doesn’t quite cover it with this recipe. You’ll have to make it after your next sweat-sesh to find out for yourself.
Get the recipe here.
11. Vegan Spinach Ricotta Lasagna
For a high-protein, low-fat recipe, try this vegan spinach ricotta lasagna! It is bursting with flavor and features a delicious vegan ricotta filling.
Get the recipe here.
