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Plant-Based & Protein-Packed: How to Hit Your Macros Without Meat

Whether youโre fully plant-based, plant-curious, or just trying to mix in more meatless meals, getting enough protein can feel… tricky.
You’re tracking your macros, trying to hit your protein goal, and suddenly staring at a block of tofu like it personally offended you. ๐
But good news! There are tons of plant-based protein sources that are:
โ๏ธ Affordable
โ๏ธ Easy to prep
โ๏ธ Actually satisfying
โ๏ธ Kid and family-friendly
Letโs break down the best high-protein plant-based foods and how to sneak them into meals without feeling like youโre eating rabbit food.
Top Plant-Based Protein Sources (That Arenโt Just Tofu)
Hereโs your go-to list of macro-friendly plant proteins to stock up on:
Legumes + Beans
- Lentils (18g per cup cooked)
- Chickpeas (15g per cup cooked)
- Black beans (15g per cup cooked)
- Edamame (17g per cup cooked)
๐ก Add to salads, tacos, grain bowls, or blend into dips like hummus!
Whole Grains
- Quinoa (8g per cup cooked)
- Farro (6g per cup cooked)
- Oats (5g per ยฝ cup dry)
๐ก Try swapping rice for quinoa or adding oats to smoothies and bakes.
Soy-Based Proteins
- Tofu (10g per ยฝ cup)
- Tempeh (15g per ยฝ cup)
๐ก Crisp them up in an air fryer or bake in sauces for texture and flavor.
Meat Alternatives (Check the Label!)
- Seitan (21g per 3 oz)
- Plant-based meats (10โ20g/serving)
๐ก Some are macro-friendly, others not so muchโalways check the nutrition panel.
High-Protein Dairy Alternatives
- Protein almond or soy milk (8โ10g per cup)
- Plant-based yogurts with added protein (10โ15g per serving)
๐ก Perfect for smoothies, cereal, or a sweet treat.
Protein Powders (Vegan)
- Pea protein, brown rice protein, or plant blends (15โ25g/serving)
๐ก Bake into muffins, stir into oats, or blend into your Dreamiโข ice cream.
How to Build a Plant-Based, Macro-Friendly Meal
Hereโs the 3-part formula we love using:
1. Choose Your Protein Base:
Pick 1โ2 plant proteins from above to be your mealโs foundation.
2. Add Your Fiber & Flavor:
Toss in roasted veggies, leafy greens, or whateverโs in the fridge.
3. Finish with Fats & Carbs:
Top with avocado, nuts/seeds, dressing, or toss in sweet potatoes or whole grains for extra energy.
Quick Meal Ideas to Try
- Plant-Powered Burrito Bowl
Quinoa + black beans + roasted veggies + salsa + avocado
(30g protein if you add dairy-free cheese or tofu!) - Lentil Pasta with Marinara + Tempeh Crumbles
Use high-protein pasta like Banza and sneak in spinach! - Protein Smoothie
Oat milk + frozen berries + spinach + vegan protein powder + peanut butter - Tofu Stir Fry
Tofu + edamame + broccoli + sesame oil + soy sauce, served over rice - Chickpea Salad Sandwich
Mashed chickpeas + vegan mayo + celery + red onion on whole grain bread
Itโs All About the Mix & Match
You donโt need to eat 100g of protein in one meal.
Combining a few plant-based sources throughout the day adds up quicklyโand gives your body a variety of nutrients and fiber to boot.
Youโre not โdoing it wrongโ if youโre learning as you go.
And remember: You donโt have to be all-or-nothing to benefit from plant-based eating.
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