High Protein Vegan Recipes & Meal Prep Ideas

If you’re trying to follow a plant-based diet and still want to get enough protein, you’re not alone. More people are choosing vegan diets for health, environmental, or ethical reasons. Because of this, the need for high–protein vegan recipes is growing. For ideas on vegan meal prep, quick weekday dinners, or high–protein meals, this article has everything you need.
From easy high protein vegan meals to vegan recipes with protein powder, we’ll explore how to meet your protein needs the tasty way.
We will keep it simple and casual. This way, you can enjoy cooking and eating for better health.
Why High Protein Matters on a Vegan Diet
Protein is essential for building muscle, repairing tissue, and supporting metabolism. But if you’re vegan, you may wonder: can plants truly provide enough protein?
Yes, they can. Foods like lentils, tofu, tempeh, chickpeas, edamame, nuts, seeds, and whole grains offer excellent sources of plant protein. Add in vegan recipes with protein powder (like pea or rice protein), and your meals can easily hit high protein goals.
For active people, a good target is 0.8–1 gram of protein per pound of body weight, depending on your fitness level and goals.
Best High Protein Vegan Foods
Before we dive into recipes, here are some of the top vegan protein sources:
1. Tofu (Firm or Extra-Firm)
Protein: ~20g per cup (cooked)
Why It’s Great: Absorbs flavor well; ideal for stir-fries, grilling, and baking.
2. Tempeh
Protein: ~30g per cup
Why It’s Great: Fermented and gut-friendly; great for sandwiches, bowls, and pan-frying.
3. Lentils (Brown, Green, Red)
Protein: ~18g per cooked cup
Why It’s Great: Budget-friendly and perfect for soups, stews, and curries.
4. Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans)
Protein: ~15g per cooked cup
Why It’s Great: Great for hummus, salads, roasting, or curry.
5. Black Beans
Protein: ~15g per cooked cup
Why It’s Great: Versatile in tacos, chili, or mixed into quinoa bowls.
6. Quinoa
Protein: ~8g per cooked cup
Why It’s Great: A complete protein grain that’s easy to use as a base for salads or bowls.
7. Seitan
Protein: ~21g per 3 oz
Why It’s Great: Meaty texture and one of the highest vegan protein sources. Great for stir-fries or sandwiches.
8. Edamame (Young Soybeans)
Protein: ~17g per cup (cooked)
Why It’s Great: Snackable or toss in salads, soups, or bowls.
9.Hemp Seeds
Protein: ~10g per 3 tbsp
Why It’s Great: Add to smoothies, oatmeal, or sprinkle over salads for an easy protein boost.
Vegan High Protein Meals
1. Tofu & Quinoa Power Bowl
- Protein: ~30g
- Calories: ~500
- Carbs: ~40g
- Fat: ~25g
- Highlights: Balanced and fiber-rich, great post-workout option.
2. Lentil and Sweet Potato Curry
- Protein: ~24g
- Calories: ~450
- Carbs: ~50g
- Fat: ~18g
- Highlights: Comforting, iron-rich, and ideal for batch cooking.
3. Seitan Stir-Fry with Broccoli and Bell Peppers
- Protein: ~35g
- Calories: ~420
- Carbs: ~20g
- Fat: ~15g
- Highlights: Extremely high in protein with minimal carbs. Great for lean muscle.
4. Chickpea Salad Sandwich
- Protein: ~20g
- Calories: ~400
- Carbs: ~35g
- Fat: ~16g
- Highlights: Quick lunch, heart-healthy, and incredibly satisfying.
5. Vegan Chili with Black Beans and Tempeh
- Protein: ~30g
- Calories: ~480
- Carbs: ~45g
- Fat: ~18g
- Highlights: Fiber-packed and perfect for freezing.
6. Vegan Protein Smoothie Bowl
- Protein: ~25–30g
- Calories: ~450
- Carbs: ~35g
- Fat: ~20g
- Highlights: Refreshing and energizing—ideal for mornings or post-workout.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers with Lentils and Brown Rice
- Protein: ~22g
- Calories: ~400
- Carbs: ~45g
- Fat: ~12g
- Highlights: Great for portion control and meal prep.
8. Spaghetti with Vegan Protein “Meatballs”
- Protein: ~28g
- Calories: ~500
- Carbs: ~50g
- Fat: ~18g
- Highlights: Comfort food that delivers on nutrition.
9. Vegan Buddha Bowl with Edamame and Chickpeas
- Protein: ~25g
- Calories: ~470
- Carbs: ~40g
- Fat: ~22g
- Highlights: Balanced macronutrients and filling.
10. High Protein Vegan Burrito Wrap
- Protein: ~30g
- Calories: ~510
- Carbs: ~45g
- Fat: ~20g
- Highlights: Perfect for on-the-go or lunchboxes.
11. Creamy Chickpea Pasta with Spinach
- Protein: ~22g
- Calories: ~460
- Carbs: ~42g
- Fat: ~16g
- Highlights: Gluten-free option, creamy and comforting.
12. Tofu Scramble Breakfast Bowl
- Protein: ~28g
- Calories: ~440
- Carbs: ~30g
- Fat: ~22g
- Highlights: High in protein and iron, great for morning fuel.
13. Vegan Protein Pancakes
- Protein: ~20g
- Calories: ~390
- Carbs: ~35g
- Fat: ~14g
- Highlights: Sweet, energizing beginning to your day.
14. Tempeh Teriyaki Bowl
- Protein: ~30g
- Calories: ~500
- Carbs: ~45g
- Fat: ~20g
- Highlights: Sweet and savory, great for meal prep.
15. Overnight Oats with Protein Powder
- Protein: ~25g
- Calories: ~420
- Carbs: ~38g
- Fat: ~15g
- Highlights: Make-ahead breakfast, balanced and satisfying.
Vegan Meal Prep Ideas: Fuel Your Week
Meal prepping is a lifesaver, especially when you’re busy. These vegan meal prep recipes are easy to batch cook and store in the fridge or freezer.
1. High Protein Vegan Lunch Box
- Includes: Tempeh, quinoa, steamed broccoli, carrots, hummus
- Protein: ~30g per box
2. Overnight Oats with Protein Powder
- Add protein powder, oats, almond milk, chia seeds, and berries
- Protein: ~20g
3. Vegan Chili with Lentils & Black Beans
- Freeze in containers for up to 3 months
- Protein: ~25g
4. Roasted Tofu & Veggie Trays
- Prep trays with tofu, zucchini, sweet potatoes, and chickpeas
- Protein: ~28g per tray
5. High Protein Vegan Burritos (Freeze-Friendly!)
- Stuff tortillas with rice, black beans, corn, and vegan cheese
- Protein: ~30g each
6. Protein-Packed Pasta Salad
- Pasta + edamame + olives + cherry tomatoes + vinaigrette
- Protein: ~22g per serving
Vegan Recipes with Protein Powder: Not Just for Smoothies
Protein powder isn’t just for shakes — it can power up your everyday meals. These recipes are quick, versatile, and ideal for fitness-focused vegan diets.
1. Protein Pancakes
How to Make:
- Blend: ½ cup oats + 1 banana + ¾ cup almond milk + 1 tsp baking powder + 1 scoop protein powder (vanilla or unflavored).
- Cook on nonstick skillet until bubbles form and edges lift.
Why it’s great: A muscle-building breakfast that feels indulgent yet fuels your day.
Nutrition (per serving): ~20g protein | ~300–350 calories
2. Baked Protein Bars
How to Make:
- Mix: 1 cup oats + ½ cup peanut butter + 1 scoop protein powder + ¼ cup maple syrup.
- Press into a pan and chill, or bake at 350°F for 12–15 mins.
Why it’s great: Homemade, customizable, and no additives.
Nutrition (per bar): ~15g protein | ~250–300 calories
3. Protein Chia Pudding
How to Make:
- Stir: 2 tbsp chia seeds + ¾ cup almond milk + 1 scoop protein powder.
- Chill overnight, then top with fruit, seeds, or granola.
Why it’s great: Slow-digesting and rich in omega-3s and protein.
Nutrition: ~20g protein | ~250–300 calories
4. Protein Overnight Oats
How to Make:
- Combine: ½ cup oats + ¾ cup almond milk + 1 scoop vegan protein powder + 1 tbsp ground flax + cinnamon.
- Store in a jar overnight.
Why it’s great: Meal-prep friendly, balanced, and filling.
Nutrition: ~25g protein | ~350 calories
5. Protein Muffins
How to Make:
- Take your regular banana muffin recipe and mix in 1–2 scoops of protein powder.
- Reduce flour slightly if needed. Bake normally.
Why it’s great: Turns a snack into a muscle-friendly treat.
Nutrition (per muffin): ~10–12g protein | ~180–220 calories
🍽️ Easy High Protein Vegan Dinners
Whether you’re cutting or bulking, dinner is where you can tailor your calories without sacrificing protein.
🔥 Low-Calorie Vegan Dinner Recipes
1. Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry
- Ingredients: Zucchini noodles, tofu cubes, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil
- Prep Tip: Spiralize zucchini and stir-fry quickly with tofu.
- Protein: ~20g
- Calories: ~200–250
- Why: Light yet filling and ideal for fat loss.
2. Cabbage & Tofu Soup
- Ingredients: Napa cabbage, firm tofu, veggie broth, garlic, ginger
- Prep Tip: Simmer cabbage and tofu in seasoned broth.
- Protein: ~18g
- Calories: ~150
- Why: Low calorie and comforting. Great for cold nights or meal prep.
3. Chickpea Salad
- Ingredients: Chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, lemon, parsley
- Prep Tip: Toss all together and chill. Add vegan feta or tahini for extra flavor.
- Protein: ~20g
- Calories: ~300
- Why: Fresh, nutrient-dense, and fiber-rich.
💪 High-Calorie Vegan Recipes
1. Peanut Butter Protein Smoothie
- Ingredients: Banana, oats, almond milk, peanut butter, protein powder
- Tip: Add ice and blend until thick.
- Protein: ~30g
- Calories: ~600+
- Why: Great for post-workout or bulking phases.
2. Vegan Lasagna with Lentils
- Ingredients: Whole grain pasta sheets, lentil tomato ragu, cashew cream
- Prep Tip: Bake in layers like traditional lasagna.
- Protein: ~30g
- Calories: ~500–700
- Why: Rich and hearty, ideal for satisfying bigger appetites.
3. Vegan Mac & Cheese with Seitan
- Ingredients: Elbow macaroni, cashew cheese sauce, seitan, nutritional yeast.
- Prep Tip: Bake with breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.
- Protein: ~25g
- Calories: ~400–600
Why: Comfort food that’s both creamy and filling, perfect for a cozy night in.
4. Chickpea and Quinoa Salad
- Ingredients: Chickpeas, quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, lemon dressing.
- Prep Tip: Let it marinate for a few hours to enhance the flavors.
- Protein: ~18g
- Calories: ~350
Why: A refreshing and protein-packed meal that’s great for lunch or dinner.
5. Tofu Stir-Fry
- Ingredients: Firm tofu, mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots), soy sauce, sesame oil.
- Prep Tip: Press the tofu to remove excess moisture for better texture.
- Protein: ~25g
- Calories: ~400
Why: Quick to prepare and loaded with nutrients, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
6. Black Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos
- Ingredients: Black beans, roasted sweet potatoes, corn tortillas, avocado, salsa.
- Prep Tip: Top with fresh cilantro and lime for added zest.
- Protein: ~20g
- Calories: ~450
Why: A delicious and colorful meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
These high-calorie vegan recipes give you plenty of protein. They also make sure you get a variety of nutrients. Whether you’re looking to fuel your workouts or simply enjoy hearty meals, these dishes are sure to please!
🥙 High Protein Vegan Lunch Ideas
Great for work, school, or on-the-go — all balanced and satiating.
1. Tofu Sandwich
Ingredients: Grilled tofu, lettuce, tomato, avocado, mustard, whole grain bread
Why it’s great: Easy to assemble and full of texture and flavor.
- Protein: ~25g
- Calories: ~400–450
2. Quinoa Salad
Ingredients: Cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, cilantro, lime dressing
Why it’s great: This salad is refreshing and packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. You can enjoy it cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Protein: ~20g
- Calories: ~350
3. Chickpea Wrap
Ingredients: Mashed chickpeas, spinach, cucumber, hummus, whole wheat wrap
Why it’s great: This wrap is not only easy to make but also incredibly filling. The combination of chickpeas and hummus provides a creamy texture that pairs well with fresh veggies.
- Protein: ~18g
- Calories: ~300
4. Lentil Soup
Ingredients: Green lentils, carrots, celery, onion, vegetable broth, spices
Why it’s great: A warm bowl of lentil soup is comforting and nutritious. High in protein and fiber, it makes a satisfying option for lunch.
- Protein: ~22g
- Calories: ~250
5. Edamame and Brown Rice Bowl
Ingredients: Shelled edamame, brown rice, steamed broccoli, sesame seeds, soy sauce
Why it’s great: This bowl is a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The edamame adds a nice crunch, while the brown rice provides a hearty base.
- Protein: ~30g
- Calories: ~400
High Protein Vegetarian Meal Plan (7 Days)
Here’s a sample vegan meal plan focused on protein:
First Day
- Breakfast: Protein oats
- Lunch: Tempeh bowl
- Dinner: Lentil curry
- Snack: Protein bar
Second Day
- Breakfast: Smoothie with protein powder
- Lunch: Chickpea wrap
- Dinner: Vegan chili
- Snack: Hummus + veggies
Third Day
- Breakfast: Tofu scramble
- Lunch: Burrito bowl
- Dinner: Seitan stir-fry
- Snack: Trail mix
Fourth Day
- Breakfast: Chia pudding with protein powder
- Lunch: Black bean salad
- Dinner: Vegan pasta
- Snack: Roasted edamame
Fifth Day
- Breakfast: Protein pancakes
- Lunch: Quinoa bowl
- Dinner: Thai tofu curry
- Snack: Smoothie
Sixth Day
- Breakfast: Overnight oats
- Lunch: High protein sandwich
- Dinner: Vegan shepherd’s pie
- Snack: Protein muffin
Seventh Day
- Breakfast: Protein smoothie
- Lunch: Tempeh & avocado wrap
- Dinner: Vegan lasagna
- Snack: Banana + peanut butter
Final Thoughts
Following a high protein vegan diet doesn’t mean eating boring or complicated meals. With the right ingredients and easy prep methods, you can enjoy tasty vegan recipes. These meals are high in protein, help you reach your fitness goals, and keep you energized.
If you enjoy vegan meal prep ideas, you can find what you need here. You can also discover vegan recipes that use protein powder. Additionally, there are easy high–protein dinner options available.
So fire up that skillet, grab your blender, or prep those containers—vegan gains are calling.