9 High-Protein Vegetarian Recipes Even Meat-Lovers Will Crave
Just because a vegetarian meal isn’t packed with protein and nutrients doesn’t mean it isn’t packed with protein. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, these high-protein dishes are hearty, flavorful, and perfect for anyone craving a satisfying meal.
Double Bean & Roasted Pepper Chili
This high-protein dish proves that hearty comfort food can be both nutritious and satisfying. Packed with kidney beans, black beans, and roasted red peppers, this dish delivers a smoky flavor enhanced by chipotle paste, cocoa powder, and a medley of warming spices like cumin and cinnamon.
This dish is great for slow cooking; most ingredients might already be in your pantry. This dish is great on its own or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Moroccan Lentil Meatballs
These “meatballs” are made with lentils, breadcrumbs, and aromatic spices like smoked paprika and oregano. They are truly a hearty dish with a high-protein option for vegetarians. Paired with a smoky roasted red pepper and harissa sauce, the dish delivers a perfect balance of warmth and zest. This dish is quick and easy to make, taking only 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.
Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Garlic Sauce
These mushrooms are perfect for a main or side dish. They are marinated in a bold blend of balsamic vinegar, smoked paprika, and vegan Worcestershire sauce and grilled to caramelized perfection. Their deep, bold flavor will be perfect for any time of day. Quick to prepare and impressive enough for gatherings, these portobellos prove that plant-based dining can be hearty and indulgent.
Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Just because you’re on a plant-based diet doesn’t mean you must give up this takeaway treat. Crispy baked florets, coated in a light batter of flour, cornstarch, and spices, are tossed in a glossy sauce blending soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil, with a kick of Sriracha and ginger for depth. The result is a sticky-sweet, umami-rich dish that rivals traditional sesame chicken, perfect over steamed rice as some comfort food.
Teriyaki Tofu Stir-Fry
This savory-sweet dish is delicious without taking too much effort, and it’s perfect for any time. Crispy tofu cubes, pressed, coated in cornstarch, and pan-fried or baked until golden, are tossed with vibrant vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli, then glazed in a homemade teriyaki sauce blending soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar.
The sauce thickens into a glossy, sticky coating that clings to every bite, while options to bake the tofu or add udon noodles offer versatility for texture preferences.
Chickpea Tacos with Avocado Cream
This protein-packed recipe takes Taco Tuesday to a whole new level. Crispy roasted or pan-fried chickpeas seasoned with cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder offer a satisfying crunch. At the same time, a velvety avocado cream sauce (blended with lime, cilantro, and a hint of jalapeño) adds a cool, zesty contrast.
It’s a quick dish to put together and extremely versatile, as you can add different toppings for your preference.
Eggplant Pulled Pork Burger
This is a creative way to get in your protein and still enjoy delicious, simple meals. The star ingredient, roasted eggplant, is baked until tender and then shredded to mimic the chewy texture of pulled pork. Combined with protein-rich green lentils and coated in a homemade BBQ sauce made with caramelized onions, smoked paprika, and tamari, the dish is flavorful. This hearty burger is perfect for summer cookouts or casual dinners, served on a soft burger bun and topped with creamy coleslaw.
Lentil & Cauliflower Curry
Curry is a feel-good dish that is easy to throw together but worth making. This high-protein dish uses lentils, tender cauliflower, and a symphony of spices like cumin, turmeric, and garam masala. Simmered in creamy coconut milk and vegetable broth, the curry develops a velvety texture and deep flavor, while a squeeze of lemon and fresh coriander brighten each bite.
Vegetarian Carbonara
While this might not be traditional Carbonara, it’s just as delicious. Instead of pancetta or bacon, sautéed mushrooms or fresh vegetables like zucchini and peas bring a savory depth and vibrant texture. The sauce, made by whisking egg yolks with Parmesan or ricotta cheese, creates a silky coating for al dente pasta, enhanced by garlic and cracked black pepper. For added freshness, ingredients like spinach or a squeeze of lemon can elevate the dish further.
If you follow a vegan diet, substitute the egg yolks and cheese with plant-based alternatives.
References:
High-protein vegetarian recipes
17 Healthy Vegetarian Recipes for the Meat Lovers in Your Life
40 High-Protein Vegetarian Meals So Good You Won’t Miss The Meat