7 Plant-Based Proteins That Pack A Punch

Looking to add some more plant-based proteins to your diet this year? 

Looking to liven up your dinnertime menu and surprise your taste buds with a more flexible diet? Say hello to flexitarian! A flexitarian diet means eating a healthy mix of plant-based proteins while still enjoying meat and seafood in moderation.

To get you started on your flexitarian journey, we’ve got you covered with our 7 favourite plant-based proteins to keep you full, happy, and loving your meal every time. Our menu is based on the flexitarian mindset with meatless, meat, and seafood options that everyone will love. So whether you’re feeling like having a meatless dinner or feeling more seafood, we’ve got you covered.

With inspiration from our culinary team, we’re rounding up out favourite plant-based protein options – some of which can be found weekly on our menu.

1. Tempeh

1 cup = 31 grams of protein

Tempeh is a traditional Indonesian delicacy made from fermented soybeans. With a firm texture and nutty taste, it can be enjoyed steamed, sautéed, baked or fried. Tempted by tempeh? For a familiar taste with a meatless twist, try it in our Tempeh Teriyaki Bowl.

2. Chickpeas

1 cup = 14.5 grams of protein

It’s time to give chickpeas a chance! One of our favourites, that you will see on our menu often, chickpeas are a type of legume offering a range of health benefits. They’re a great source of fibre, iron, and zinc, and are responsible for quite possibly the best spread ever—hummus! Try them in our Fattoush Salad with Roasted Chickpeas.

3. Quinoa

1 cup = 8 grams of protein

Quinoa is an easy grain to love and a great way to add extra protein to your meal! It’s gluten-free, high in protein, and one of the few plant foods that contain all nine essential amino acids. Our culinary team loves featuring it as a side in many of our top-rated recipes! Give our One-Pot Mexican Quinoa and Black Beans recipe a try for a protein-packed dinner. 

4. Spinach

1 cup = 5 grams of protein

Yes vegetables have protein and spinach is one of our favourites! It’s not easy being green, but it doesn’t have to be hard to eat that way. A sprinkling of spinach looks pretty on a plate, plus it’s nutrient dense with vitamin A, C, E, and loaded with antioxidants. Popeye was definitely on to something with this one! Turn over a new leaf with our Savoury Mixed Mushroom Bowl recipe.

5. Lentils

1 cup = 18 grams of protein

Lentils pack a punch of flavour and protein! They’re a high-protein and high-fibre member of the legume family. Enjoy by swapping out ground meat for them in your favourite pasta or curry dish. Need some dinner inspiration? Try our Harira-Style Lentil Veggie Stew for dinner tonight!

6. Beans

1 cup of pinto beans = 41 grams of protein

Beans are nutritional powerhouses offerings tons of protein and fibre to your diet. One of the many reasons we love to add them to the HelloFresh menu. Beans make a great side dish, topping, or just a tasty bowl of hearty goodness. Black, pinto, and cannellini make frequent appearances on our menus. We don’t know about you, but we’ve bean thinking about dinner all day long and our Veggie Chili will hit the spot!

7.  Tofu

1 cup = 20 grams of protein

Tofu, also known as bean curd, is a versatile and protein-rich meat alternative that can be used in savoury and sweet dishes. Used around the world, tofu is a great meatless solution for many of your favourites. Kick up the flavour (meatless style) by enjoying it sautéed, fried, or baked! Get your apron and taste buds ready for our Bang Bang Tofu Bowl.  Yum!

We hope these 7 plant-based proteins inspire you to add a little bit of flexibility to your diet. In fact, you’ll be seeing a lot more of them on menu this year! Don’t forget to take photos and tag #HelloFreshLife, so we can see all the nutritious deliciousness you’ll be cooking up.