10 High-Protein Vegetarian Recipes (That Are Actually Satisfying)

When you’re trying to eat more plant-based foods, hitting your protein goals can feel like a uphill challenge. Protein is essential for building muscle, supporting recovery, and keeping you fuller for longer, but it’s not always as easy to come by in a vegetarian diet. However, the good news is that you don’t need meat to get strong and to hit your protein macro goals. With a few clever swaps and combinations, you can easily build protein-rich meals that are full of flavour and totally tasty. In this week’s blog, we’re sharing 10 high-protein vegetarian recipes that prove eating plant-based can be simple, delicious, and great for your goals.

1. Chickpea & Spinach Curry

Chickpeas are not only a great source of plant protein, but they also bring iron and fibre to the table.

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas

• 2 handfuls spinach

• 1 onion, garlic, ginger

• 1 tbsp curry paste

• 200ml coconut milk

Protein: ~18g per portion
Serve with: Brown rice or quinoa for a more complete protein profile.

Why it works: Chickpeas plus grains create a complete amino acid combo. In addition, this meal is budget-friendly and easy to batch cook.

 2. Lentil & Sweet Potato Stew

This hearty meal is ideal for meal prep and packed with fibre and slow-release carbs.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils

• 1 small sweet potato, diced

• Carrot, celery, onion

• Vegetable stock, cumin, turmeric

Protein: ~20g per bowl

Add: A spoonful of Greek yoghurt for extra protein and creaminess.
As a result, you get a comforting dish that supports both muscle and gut health.

3. Quinoa & Black Bean Salad

If you’re short on time, this is the perfect high-protein lunch.

Ingredients:

• ¾ cup cooked quinoa

• ½ can black beans

• Red pepper, sweetcorn, fresh lime

• Olive oil, coriander

Protein: ~22g per serving

Top tip: Add avocado for healthy fats and extra satisfaction.
Meanwhile, black beans contribute fibre and magnesium — both important for recovery.

 4. Grilled Halloumi & Roasted Veg Bowl

For a savoury, satisfying dinner, this one ticks all the boxes.

Ingredients:

• 3–4 slices halloumi

• Courgette, aubergine, peppers

• Olive oil, lemon juice

Protein: ~25g per bowl

Swap it: Use tofu to make it vegan.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also easy to customise depending on what veggies you have.

 5. High-Protein Hummus Wrap

This wrap makes a great on-the-go meal that doesn’t compromise on nutrition.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp hummus

• 2 falafel

• Wholemeal wrap

• Lettuce, grated carrot, cucumber

Protein: ~20g per wrap

Add: A spoonful of Greek yoghurt or tahini for extra protein.
Additionally, you can include roasted peppers or avocado to make it more filling.

 6. Cottage Cheese & Veg Omelette

This option is high in protein and ready in minutes — ideal for busy mornings.

Ingredients:

• 2 eggs + 2 egg whites

• ½ cup cottage cheese

• Spinach, mushrooms, tomato

Protein: ~30g per omelette

Adjust: Use all egg whites for lower fat.
As an alternative, you could use a vegan egg product and tofu instead of cottage cheese.

7. Red Lentil Pasta with Tomato & Basil Sauce

Red lentil pasta is a pantry hero — higher in protein and naturally gluten-free.

Ingredients:

• 75g red lentil pasta

• Passata, garlic, onion, basil

• Spinach or kale

Protein: ~25g per bowl

Boost it: Sprinkle on nutritional yeast or stir in tofu mince.
In short, this is a comfort dish that still supports your fitness goals.

 8. Tofu Stir-Fry with Peanut Sauce

If you’re looking for a quick, high-protein dinner, this one is perfect.

Ingredients:

• 150g firm tofu

• Mixed veg (e.g. broccoli, peppers, baby corn)

• 1 tbsp peanut butter

• Soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil

Protein: ~30g per serving

Why it works: You get a mix of protein, fibre, and healthy fats in under 20 minutes.
On top of that, it’s easy to double the recipe for leftovers.

 9. Edamame & Avocado Power Bowl

This bowl is light, fresh, and packed with protein.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup shelled edamame

• ½ avocado

• Brown rice or farro

• Cucumber, sesame seeds, lime

Protein: ~18g per bowl

Tip: Add hemp seeds or tempeh for a bigger protein hit.
Consequently, it becomes a great post-workout option too.

10. Protein Smoothie (No Powder Needed)

Sometimes, you just need something quick and portable.

Ingredients:

• ¾ cup Greek yoghurt

• 1 tbsp peanut butter

• Handful frozen berries

• 2 tbsp oats

• Splash of almond milk

Protein: ~25g per shake

Optional: Add a scoop of protein powder to boost to 35g+.
That way, it works well as a recovery shake or high-protein snack.

 Final Thought

You don’t have to rely on meat to hit your protein goals. Instead, with a little planning, plant-based meals can easily deliver the nutrients you need to feel strong, fuel your workouts, and recover well.

Start with one or two recipes from this list, then build your confidence from there. After all, the best diet is the one you can stick to and enjoy.

Is going full veggie just too much for you? Check out our blog – What is a Flexitarian?

What to learn more about emotional eating?

Check out the InstructorLive Podcast Episode 3 with Dietaian Maxinne Palmer here on YouTube