8 Top High Protein Vegan Meals

Eating a vegan diet doesn’t mean you have to miss out on protein. There are numerous plant-based foods that are rich in protein and can be combined to create delicious, satisfying meals. Whether you’re a long-time vegan, new to the lifestyle, or simply looking to add more plant-based options to your diet, here are some top high-protein vegan meals that are both nutritious and tasty.

1. Quinoa and Black Bean Stuffed Peppers

Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that the body needs. When combined with black beans, which are also high in protein and fiber, it creates a filling and nutritious meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 large bell peppers
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the quinoa in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
3. While the quinoa is cooking, cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture and place them in a baking dish.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Recipe page: Vegan Quinoa and Black Bean Stuffed Peppers Recipe

2. Lentil and Vegetable Stir-Fry

Lentils are another excellent source of plant-based protein. They are also rich in fiber, iron, and folate. This lentil and vegetable stir-fry is a quick and easy meal that is perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot. Cook until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Stir in the cooked lentils, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Recipe page: Lentils and Vegetable Stir Fry

3. Chickpea and Spinach Curry

Chickpeas are a versatile and protein-rich legume that can be used in a variety of dishes. This chickpea and spinach curry is flavorful and satisfying, perfect for a hearty dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• 1 can coconut milk
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until the onion is soft.
3. Stir in the curry powder and cook for another minute.
4. Add the chickpeas, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
5. Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
6. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Recipe page: Chickpea and Spinach Curry Recipe

4. Tofu Scramble with Vegetables

Tofu is a staple in vegan diets, providing a great source of protein and versatility in cooking. This tofu scramble is a perfect breakfast or brunch option.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, drained and crumbled
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup spinach
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture.
4. Stir in the crumbled tofu, turmeric, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Recipe page: Tofu Scramble with Vegetables Recipe

5. Vegan Tempeh Tacos

Tempeh is made from fermented soybeans and is a protein powerhouse. These vegan tempeh tacos are flavorful and packed with protein.

Ingredients:

• 1 block tempeh, crumbled
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Corn tortillas
• Toppings: avocado, salsa, shredded lettuce, fresh cilantro

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the crumbled tempeh, soy sauce, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
5. Fill each tortilla with the tempeh mixture and top with avocado, salsa, shredded lettuce, and fresh cilantro.

Full recipe post: Vegan Tempeh Tacos Recipe

6. Edamame and Vegetable Sushi Rolls

Edamame is young, green soybeans that are rich in protein and perfect for snacking or adding to meals. These sushi rolls are a fun and nutritious way to enjoy edamame.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sushi rice
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• Nori (seaweed) sheets
• 1 cup shelled edamame
• 1 cucumber, julienned
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Soy sauce for dipping

Instructions:

1. Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Combine the rice and water in a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Pour over the cooked rice and mix well.
4. Place a nori sheet on a bamboo sushi mat. Spread a thin layer of rice over the nori, leaving a border at the top.
5. Arrange edamame, cucumber, and avocado in a line along the bottom edge of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi tightly, using the mat to help shape it. Seal the edge with a little water.
7. Slice the roll into pieces and serve with soy sauce.

Full recipe: Vegan Edamame and Vegetable Sushi Rolls Recipe

7. Red Lentil and Sweet Potato Dal

Red lentils cook quickly and are an excellent source of protein. This red lentil and sweet potato dal is comforting and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the lentils under cold water.
2. Heat the coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until the onion is soft.
4. Stir in the cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and turmeric. Cook for another minute.
5. Add the diced sweet potato, lentils, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the lentils and sweet potato are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

8. Vegan Protein-Packed Salad

A hearty salad can be a fantastic source of protein, especially when you include a variety of nutrient-dense ingredients. This vegan protein-packed salad is fresh, colorful, and full of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1/2 cup chickpeas
• 1/2 cup edamame
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• Dressing: olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cooked quinoa, chickpeas, edamame, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries.
2. Arrange the avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, and red onion on top.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.

Final Thoughts

Incorporating high-protein vegan meals into your diet can be both delicious and nutritious. These recipes showcase the versatility of plant-based ingredients and demonstrate that you can enjoy a variety of flavors and textures while meeting your protein needs. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or exploring plant-based options, these meals are sure to satisfy your hunger and nourish your body.

You Eat Plants

Lance has been passionate about the plant-based diet and we have been following a whole food plant-based diet for over 5 years. We focus on health, natural healing, weight management, animal rights, and the health of the planet and environment by focusing on whole plant-based foods and sustainable practices.
Learn more at the About Me page and follow on social media at the links below.