These dishes feature high-protein vegetables as well as meat and seafood, but if you're after high protein vegetarian meals and high protein vegan meals, we've got plenty right here.
For more high protein ideas try our healthy chicken breast recipes, healthy salmon recipes, steak recipes and healthy mince recipes. For dishes high in calories, check out these high-calorie foods to try.
Wanting to boost your iron levels too? Check out our collection of iron-rich recipes for tasty ideas such as chilli con carne, lentil soup and lamb ragu. If you're looking to make your favourite meals healthier, take a look at our 15 healthy swaps and our anti-inflammatory recipes.
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High protein meals
Healthy turkey stir-fry
Check out this healthy turkey stir-fry featuring sauerkraut, earthy broccoli, mushrooms and zingy ginger for a quick, easy and high-protein dinner.
Healthy salmon pasta
Make this healthy salmon pasta by Nadine Brown if you’re looking for a comforting, creamy seafood dinner that’s also high in protein.
Healthy turkey burgers
These turkey burgers are packed with protein and are low in calories. Served with a mixed salad, coleslaw or sweet potato wedges, they make an exciting yet healthy family dinner for four.
Chorizo, roasted red pepper and pea frittata
Liven up your frittata with chorizo and a kick of chilli, then pop under the grill until puffed and golden. A slice of this makes a great high-protein snack. We have plenty more frittata and omelette recipes if that's what you're after.
Healthy egg-fried rice
When you need something high protein, fast, it doesn’t get quicker than fried rice. We’ve added sweet juicy crab to take it up a notch.
Chicken quinoa salad
This healthy, low-calorie and gluten-free chicken salad is made filling with the addition of protein-packed quinoa and colourful with red onion, mint and lemon zest.
Balsamic lentils with pork fillet
Balsamic offers a tartness to our vibrant pork dish. This well-balanced meal is high in protein but low in calories and salt.
Healthy kebabs
This high-protein kebab made of turkey mince offers fresh, zesty flavours thanks to the addition of lemon and parsley, offering a healthier version of a takeaway favourite that’s perfect for the weekends.
Healthy cod and rice one-pot
This healthy one-pan dish, where juicy hunks of cod are mixed with basil and sweet tomato, is a brilliant high-protein dinner option offering fragrant, rich flavours.
Healthy chicken stir-fry
Check out Nadine Brown’s shredded chicken stir fry for a dish that’s high in protein and bursting with fresh, gingery flavour and red chilli heat.
Chicken stroganoff
Try this chicken stroganoff for a midweek dinner that’s high in protein and full of warming flavours.
Healthy fish cakes
For a high-protein dinner with a kick, whip up these spiced salmon fishcakes and serve with fresh carrot and cucumber ribbons.
Vegetable omelette
Jazz your omelette up with plenty of grated courgette, kale, peas and chilli flakes, then serve alongside cherry tomatoes dressed simply with white wine vinegar for an easy, high-protein vegetarian meal.
Healthy jacket potato
A crispy, fluffy baked potato with a classic niçoise salad filling makes for a satisfying high-protein lunch. It’s low in calories, too.
Sesame-crusted tuna with miso dressing
Coat tuna steaks in sesame seeds and serve on a crunchy sugar snap pea and edamame salad for a quick, protein-packed meal. Why not check out more of our favourite tuna recipes.
Tuna pasta bake
An absolute classic, made even more wonderful with the addition of dried chilli flakes and rosemary. It's a real crowd pleaser!
Healthy one-pan chicken and rice
This protein-rich dish sees chicken marinated in soy, hoisin, honey and garlic before being cooked with brown rice. It’s simple, fuss-free yet full of rich and tempting flavours.
Chicken, giant couscous and harissa broth
Giant couscous adds a springy texture to this wholesome broth, packed with plenty of protein from the chicken, plus spring greens and a kick of harissa.
Chicken pasta salad
Throw together this quick and easy pasta salad using leftover chicken, tomatoes and greens for a protein-heavy lunch or midweek dinner.
Miso and chilli chicken noodle soup
Fry shredded chicken in miso and gochujang and add to this nutritious broth for a healthy, gut-friendly meal.
Thai salmon parcels
Sealing the ingredients in a parcel gently steams the salmon and traps in all the flavour to create a light, fragrant sauce for this high-protein midweek meal.
Jerk chicken skewers with mango salad
Coat protein-rich chicken pieces with jerk seasoning and cook over a hot griddle pan for some midweek heat, ready in 20 minutes.
Orzo, bean and tuna salad
Turn storecupboard staples into this vibrant, nutritious orzo pasta salad with roasted red peppers and black olives.
Paprika chicken thighs with cherry tomatoes, courgette ribbons and mint
Check out these seriously crispy, smoky chicken thighs with easy courgette ribbons and juicy cherry tomatoes. This super easy meal is high in protein, low in calories and ready in less than an hour.
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Quinoa and black bean chilli
Try our quick and easy vegan chilli. This quinoa and black bean chilli recipe is high in protein, low calorie and vegan – but still tastes impossibly creamy.
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
Introduction
As an expert in the field of nutrition and healthy eating, I can provide you with information related to the concepts mentioned in this article. My expertise is based on extensive knowledge and experience in the field, as well as staying up-to-date with the latest research and recommendations.
High-Protein Vegetarian and Vegan Meals
If you're looking for high-protein vegetarian and vegan meals, there are plenty of options available. Plant-based protein sources include legumes (such as lentils, chickpeas, and black beans), tofu, tempeh, seitan, edamame, quinoa, chia seeds, hemp seeds, and nuts and seeds. These ingredients can be used to create delicious and nutritious meals that are high in protein.
Here are a few ideas for high-protein vegetarian and vegan meals:
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Lentil Curry: A flavorful and protein-packed dish made with lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices. Serve it with brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
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Chickpea Salad: Combine chickpeas with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Add some herbs and a tangy dressing for a refreshing and protein-rich salad.
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Tofu Stir-Fry: Stir-fry tofu with a variety of colorful vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas. Season it with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for a delicious and protein-packed meal.
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Quinoa Salad: Mix cooked quinoa with roasted vegetables, herbs, and a zesty dressing. This salad is not only high in protein but also rich in fiber and nutrients.
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Vegan Chili: Prepare a hearty chili using beans, vegetables, and spices. It's a satisfying and protein-rich meal that can be enjoyed on its own or served with whole grain bread or rice.
Remember, it's important to ensure you're getting a variety of protein sources and balancing your meals with other essential nutrients. Consulting with a registered dietitian can help you create a well-rounded and personalized meal plan.
Iron-Rich Recipes
If you're looking to boost your iron levels, incorporating iron-rich recipes into your diet can be beneficial. Iron is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in transporting oxygen throughout the body. Here are a few iron-rich recipe ideas:
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Spinach and Lentil Soup: Combine spinach, lentils, onions, and garlic in a flavorful broth. This soup is not only rich in iron but also packed with vitamins and minerals.
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Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry: Stir-fry lean beef with broccoli and other colorful vegetables. Beef is a good source of heme iron, which is more easily absorbed by the body.
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Lamb Ragu: Slow-cook lamb with tomatoes, onions, and herbs to create a rich and flavorful ragu. Lamb is another good source of heme iron.
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Chilli Con Carne: Prepare a hearty chili using lean ground beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, and spices. This dish is not only high in iron but also a good source of protein and fiber.
Incorporating iron-rich foods into your diet is important, especially for individuals who may be at risk of iron deficiency. However, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice based on your specific needs.
Conclusion
Incorporating high-protein vegetarian and vegan meals, as well as iron-rich recipes, into your diet can provide you with a variety of delicious and nutritious options. Remember to focus on a balanced diet that includes a variety of protein sources, as well as other essential nutrients. If you have specific dietary concerns or requirements, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized guidance.
