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Wholesome High-Protein Vegan Meals Over 30g Protein

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A quick and easy vegan meal packed with over 30 grams of protein per serving, combining chickpeas, quinoa, and tofu with flavorful spices and fresh veggies for a hearty, satisfying dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (240g) cooked chickpeas, rinsed
  • 1 cup (185g) quinoa, rinsed
  • 200g extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cups (60g) spinach, fresh or frozen
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, toasted pumpkin seeds, sliced avocado

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup (185g) quinoa thoroughly under cold water. Combine with 2 cups (475ml) water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
  2. Press tofu for about 10 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into ½-inch (1.25cm) cubes. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden on all sides, about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally. Remove tofu and set aside.
  3. Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the skillet. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Add diced red bell pepper and cook for another 5 minutes until slightly softened.
  4. Stir in spinach (if frozen, thaw and drain excess water first). Sprinkle smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until spinach wilts and spices bloom.
  5. Add rinsed chickpeas and cooked tofu back to the skillet. Pour in soy sauce and fresh lemon juice. Stir gently and cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes to meld flavors and allow subtle caramelization.
  6. Fold cooked quinoa into the skillet mixture, stirring until mixed and heated through, about 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro, toasted pumpkin seeds, or sliced avocado if desired.

Notes

Press tofu to remove excess moisture for a firm texture. Avoid overcrowding the pan when browning tofu to ensure crispiness. Rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove bitterness. Adjust seasoning gradually and add lemon juice at the end to brighten flavors. For soy-free option, substitute tofu with seitan and use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: vegan, high-protein, plant-based, chickpeas, tofu, quinoa, healthy, easy recipe, gluten-free option