Eating vegan doesn’t mean missing out on protein. In fact, with the right ingredients, you can create filling, nourishing, and protein-packed dishes that keep you energized throughout the day. Whether you’re looking to build muscle, maintain a healthy diet, or simply explore new plant-based meals, these 6 high protein vegan recipes will show you how satisfying and flavorful vegan cooking can be.
From hearty bowls and savory curries to creamy puddings and delicious wraps, each recipe is rich in plant-based protein while staying completely dairy- and meat-free. Let’s dive in!
1. Vegan Lentil and Quinoa Protein Bowl
This protein-packed bowl is the perfect mix of grains, legumes, and veggies. Lentils and quinoa are both complete proteins, making this dish ideal for anyone looking to fuel up.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils
- 1 cup roasted vegetables (broccoli, carrots, zucchini)
- 2 tbsp hummus or tahini
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook quinoa and lentils separately according to package directions.
- Roast vegetables in olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes.
- Assemble the bowl: quinoa at the base, lentils on top, roasted veggies, and a dollop of hummus or tahini.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Protein per serving: ~20 grams
This balanced bowl is a go-to meal for lunch or dinner, offering fiber, minerals, and plant-based protein all in one.
2. Chickpea and Spinach Curry
A warm, comforting curry loaded with chickpeas, spinach, and aromatic spices. Chickpeas are a great source of protein and fiber, making this dish both hearty and nutritious.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 can coconut milk (13 oz)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
- Add curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Stir for 1 minute.
- Add chickpeas and coconut milk. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve with rice or flatbread.
Protein per serving: ~16 grams
This curry is creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor while being 100% vegan and high in protein.
3. Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Tofu is one of the best vegan protein sources and works beautifully in quick stir-fries. Pair it with colorful vegetables and soy sauce for a satisfying, protein-rich dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, carrots)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- Cooked brown rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
- Heat sesame oil in a wok or pan.
- Add garlic and ginger, then tofu cubes. Pan-fry until golden brown.
- Toss in vegetables and cook until slightly tender but still crisp.
- Pour soy sauce over the stir-fry and mix well.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve with rice or noodles.
Protein per serving: ~22 grams
A quick and easy recipe that provides a solid protein boost in under 30 minutes.
4. Black Bean and Sweet Potato Wraps
A delicious, grab-and-go meal that’s high in plant protein thanks to black beans. Sweet potatoes add a naturally sweet, nutrient-rich balance.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked black beans
- 1 medium roasted sweet potato, cubed
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 large whole-wheat tortillas
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Roast sweet potato cubes with olive oil, chili powder, and salt at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes.
- Warm the tortillas and mash black beans slightly with lime juice.
- Layer black beans, roasted sweet potato, and avocado slices inside the tortilla.
- Roll tightly into a wrap and serve.
Protein per serving: ~15 grams
Perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch, these wraps are filling, flavorful, and nutritious.
5. Vegan High Protein Chia Seed Pudding
This recipe doubles as breakfast or dessert while being surprisingly high in protein when combined with plant-based protein powder and almond milk.
Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 scoop vegan protein powder (vanilla or chocolate)
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- Fresh berries for topping
- 1 tbsp almond butter (optional for extra protein)
Instructions:
- Mix chia seeds, almond milk, protein powder, and maple syrup in a bowl.
- Stir well and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours.
- Top with fresh berries and almond butter before serving.
Protein per serving: ~18 grams
A creamy, protein-rich pudding that feels indulgent but is incredibly healthy.
6. Vegan Tempeh Buddha Bowl
Tempeh is a powerhouse of protein and makes a fantastic addition to vegan bowls. Combined with quinoa, fresh greens, and a tahini dressing, this bowl is both delicious and nutrient-dense.
Ingredients:
- 1 block tempeh, sliced
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup kale or spinach
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup cucumber slices
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
- Marinate tempeh slices in soy sauce, olive oil, and garlic powder for 15 minutes.
- Pan-fry or bake tempeh until golden brown.
- Assemble quinoa, kale, carrots, and cucumber in a bowl.
- Add tempeh on top and drizzle with tahini dressing.
Protein per serving: ~24 grams
This Buddha bowl is filling, colorful, and perfect for a high-protein lunch or dinner.
Tips for Boosting Protein on a Vegan Diet
While these recipes already pack a punch, here are a few tips to make sure you’re meeting your protein needs:
- Combine legumes and grains (like rice and beans) to form complete proteins.
- Use high-protein ingredients like lentils, chickpeas, black beans, tofu, tempeh, seitan, quinoa, and edamame.
- Add vegan protein powders to smoothies, oatmeal, and puddings for an easy protein boost.
- Snack smart with roasted chickpeas, edamame, or protein bars.
Final Thoughts
These 6 high protein vegan recipes prove that plant-based meals can be both satisfying and protein-rich. From hearty lentil bowls and creamy chickpea curries to protein-packed chia puddings and tempeh Buddha bowls, there’s something here for every taste and occasion.
Eating vegan doesn’t have to mean sacrificing protein or flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create balanced, delicious meals that fuel your body and keep you full. Whether you’re a committed vegan or just looking to add more plant-based meals into your diet, these recipes are a fantastic way to start.