6 Surprising Sources of Plant-Based Protein

a pile of different beans, legumes, and seeds
Foods with Plant-Based Protein
Food Serving Protein Notes
Lentils 12 cup 9 grams This lowly legume packs a wallop of not just protein but fiber as well (8 grams in 12 cup) and is extremely versatile.
  • Try cooking up a pot on Sunday night and eating throughout the week.
  • Add a cup to a green salad or make it the star of a salad with a few vegetables and vinaigrette.
Peas 12 cup 4 grams Get protein and a dash of color with peas.
  • You can thaw frozen peas and add them raw to green and pasta salads.
  • Serve cooked peas as a side.
Hemp Seeds 3 Tbsp 16 grams The small seeds of the hemp plant are rich in protein and essential fatty acids.
  • Their mild nutty flavor makes them ideal for smoothies and salads.
  • Try adding a tablespoon to granola for a protein boost.
Pumpkin Seeds 12 cup 20 grams Roasted and salted or raw, pumpkin seeds add a quick and hefty dose of protein to any snack or meal.
  • Carry them with you and munch a few handfuls when you need a protein fix.
Spirulina 1 Tbsp 4 grams This bright green algae powder may not look appetizing, but:
  • Toss some in a smoothie and you won’t taste a thing.
  • If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding it to baked items like muffins or healthy cookies.
Collard Greens 1 cup 4 grams If a plate of collard greens doesn’t sound like something you’re family would dig into, take heart; there are many ways to incorporate these super healthy greens into foods your family will eat.
  • Add the greens chopped to soups, omelets and frittatas.
  • Try adding some to a tomato marinara pasta sauce.

Contributor

Organic Connections

Organic Connections is brought to you by Natural Vitality, a purpose-driven human nutrition company. Natural Vitality Living offers fun tips, delicious recipes, inspiring profiles and features to empower readers to find balance in a stressful world.

Visit the Organic Connections blog for more content that will get you eating, drinking, gardening, shopping and learning in a whole new shade of green.