Tag: high protein

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‘Cauliflower’ Instead of ‘Steak’: 5 Flavorful Plant-Based Cauliflower Recipes

person holding cauliflower

Introduction: If you’re looking for a plant-based alternative to steak that’s both flavorful and versatile, cauliflower is an excellent choice. With its dense and meaty texture, cauliflower can be transformed into delicious and satisfying dishes that rival the taste and texture of steak. In this post, we’ll explore five flavorful plant-based cauliflower recipes that will impress your taste buds. Get ready to savor the goodness of cauliflower with these mouthwatering recipes!

  1. Cauliflower Steak with Chimichurri Sauce: Ingredients:
  • Large cauliflower head
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • For the Chimichurri Sauce:
    • Fresh parsley, chopped
    • Fresh cilantro, chopped
    • Garlic, minced
    • Red wine vinegar
    • Olive oil
    • Red pepper flakes
    • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Slice the cauliflower head into thick steaks, each about 1 inch thick.
  • Place the cauliflower steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Drizzle olive oil over the steaks and season with salt and pepper on both sides.
  • Roast the cauliflower steaks in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and golden brown.
  • Meanwhile, prepare the chimichurri sauce by combining chopped parsley, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well.
  • Once the cauliflower steaks are done, transfer them to serving plates and drizzle with the chimichurri sauce.
  • Serve the cauliflower steaks with chimichurri sauce as a delicious and satisfying plant-based alternative to steak.
  1. Cauliflower Steak Fajitas: Ingredients:
  • Large cauliflower head
  • Bell peppers, sliced
  • Onion, sliced
  • Fajita seasoning (or a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper)
  • Olive oil
  • Tortillas
  • Guacamole, salsa, and vegan sour cream (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

  • Slice the cauliflower head into thick steaks, each about 1 inch thick.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  • Cook the cauliflower steaks in the skillet for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and slightly charred.
  • Remove the cauliflower steaks from the skillet and set them aside.
  • In the same skillet, add sliced bell peppers and onions. Sauté until they are tender-crisp.
  • Sprinkle fajita seasoning over the vegetables and stir to coat them evenly.
  • Warm up the tortillas.
  • Assemble the fajitas by placing a cauliflower steak on each tortilla, topping with the sautéed bell peppers and onions.
  • Serve the cauliflower steak fajitas with guacamole, salsa, and vegan sour cream if desired.
  1. Cauliflower “Steak” Burger: Ingredients:
  • Large cauliflower head
  • Burger buns
  • Lettuce, tomato, onion, and any desired burger toppings
  • For the Marinade:
    • Soy sauce
    • Olive oil
    • Balsamic vinegar
    • Dijon mustard
    • Garlic powder
    • Onion powder
    • Smoked paprika
    • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  • Slice the cauliflower head into thick steaks, each about 1 inch thick.
  • In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
  • Place the cauliflower steaks in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  • Marinate the cauliflower steaks for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for more flavor.
  • Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium heat.
  • Grill the cauliflower steaks for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and slightly charred.
  • Toast the burger buns and assemble the burgers with lettuce, tomato, onion, and any other preferred burger toppings.
  • Serve the cauliflower “steak” burgers as a delicious and satisfying plant-based alternative to traditional burgers.
  1. Cauliflower Steak with Mushroom Sauce: Ingredients:
  • Large cauliflower head
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • For the Mushroom Sauce:
    • Assorted mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, or oyster), sliced
    • Onion, finely chopped
    • Garlic, minced
    • Vegetable broth
    • Coconut milk
    • Fresh thyme leaves
    • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  • Slice the cauliflower head into thick steaks, each about 1 inch thick.
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Cook the cauliflower steaks in the skillet for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and slightly charred.
  • Remove the cauliflower steaks from the skillet and set them aside.
  • In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until they are softened.
  • Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are tender and golden brown.
  • Pour in vegetable broth and coconut milk, and add fresh thyme leaves, salt, and pepper.
  • Simmer the mushroom sauce for a few minutes until the flavors are well combined.
  • Serve the cauliflower steaks with mushroom sauce drizzled over the top, as a flavorful and satisfying plant-based meal.
  1. Cauliflower Steak with Romesco Sauce: Ingredients:
  • Large cauliflower head
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • For the Romesco Sauce:
    • Roasted red peppers, drained
    • Tomatoes, diced
    • Almonds
    • Garlic, minced
    • Olive oil
    • Sherry vinegar (or red wine vinegar)
    • Smoked paprika
    • Cayenne pepper (optional)
    • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  • Slice the cauliflower head into thick steaks, each about 1 inch thick.
  • Drizzle olive oil over the cauliflower steaks and season with salt and pepper on both sides.
  • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Roast the cauliflower steaks in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and golden brown.
  • Meanwhile, prepare the Romesco sauce by blending roasted red peppers, diced tomatoes, almonds, minced garlic, olive oil, sherry vinegar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if desired), salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender until smooth.
  • Once the cauliflower steaks are done, transfer them to serving plates and drizzle with the Romesco sauce.
  • Serve the cauliflower steaks with Romesco sauce as a flavorful and satisfying plant-based alternative to steak.

Conclusion: With these five flavorful plant-based cauliflower recipes, you can enjoy the taste and texture of steak while incorporating the nutritional benefits of cauliflower into your meals. Cauliflower is a versatile and delicious option for plant-based cooking, and these recipes showcase its ability to shine as a main ingredient. Incorporate these recipes into your meal rotation and savor the deliciousness of cauliflower in these creative and satisfying dishes. Stay tuned for more exciting and nutritious plant-based recipes in our upcoming posts!

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‘Tofu’ Instead of ‘Eggs’: 5 High Protein Plant-Based Breakfast Ideas

plate of prepared food

Introduction: If you’re seeking a plant-based alternative to eggs that’s not only high in protein but also versatile in breakfast recipes, look no further than tofu. Tofu, made from soybeans, is a nutritious and protein-packed option that can be used as a substitute for eggs in a variety of breakfast dishes. In this post, we’ll explore five high-protein plant-based breakfast ideas featuring tofu. Get ready to start your day with these delicious and satisfying tofu-based recipes!

  1. Tofu Scramble: Ingredients:
  • Firm tofu
  • Onion, diced
  • Bell peppers, diced
  • Spinach or kale, chopped
  • Turmeric powder
  • Cumin powder
  • Garlic powder
  • Nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
  • Salt and pepper
  • Olive oil

Instructions:

  • Crumble the tofu into small pieces using your hands or a fork.
  • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté diced onion and bell peppers until softened.
  • Add the crumbled tofu to the skillet and stir to combine.
  • Sprinkle turmeric powder, cumin powder, garlic powder, nutritional yeast (if using), salt, and pepper over the tofu mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
  • Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tofu is heated through and the flavors have melded together.
  • Add chopped spinach or kale to the skillet and cook for an additional minute until wilted.
  • Serve the tofu scramble as a delicious and protein-rich breakfast option.
  1. Tofu Breakfast Burrito: Ingredients:
  • Firm tofu
  • Onion, diced
  • Bell peppers, diced
  • Black beans, drained and rinsed
  • Cumin powder
  • Paprika
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper
  • Whole wheat tortillas
  • Avocado slices
  • Salsa
  • Fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions:

  • Crumble the tofu into small pieces using your hands or a fork.
  • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté diced onion and bell peppers until softened.
  • Add the crumbled tofu to the skillet and stir to combine.
  • Sprinkle cumin powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the tofu mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
  • Add black beans to the skillet and cook for a few minutes until heated through.
  • Warm up the whole wheat tortillas.
  • Assemble the burritos by filling them with the tofu and black bean mixture, avocado slices, salsa, and fresh cilantro if desired.
  • Roll up the tortillas and serve the tofu breakfast burritos as a protein-packed and satisfying breakfast.
  1. Tofu Veggie Breakfast Bowl: Ingredients:
  • Firm tofu
  • Assorted vegetables (e.g., mushrooms, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
  • Baby spinach or kale
  • Tamari or soy sauce
  • Sesame oil
  • Rice or quinoa (cooked)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions:

  • Cut the tofu into cubes or strips.
  • In a skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat and cook the tofu until it’s lightly browned and crispy on the outside.
  • Remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.
  • In the same skillet, sauté the assorted vegetables until they’re tender-crisp.
  • Add baby spinach or kale to the skillet and cook until wilted.
  • Return the tofu to the skillet and drizzle tamari or soy sauce over the mixture. Toss well to coat everything.
  • Serve the tofu veggie breakfast bowl over cooked rice or quinoa.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
  1. Tofu Breakfast Sandwich: Ingredients:
  • Firm tofu
  • English muffins or whole wheat bread
  • Avocado, mashed
  • Tomato slices
  • Lettuce or baby spinach leaves
  • Sriracha or hot sauce (optional)
  • Salt and pepper
  • Olive oil

Instructions:

  • Cut the tofu into thick slices.
  • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the tofu slices until they’re lightly browned on both sides.
  • Season the tofu with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Toast the English muffins or bread slices.
  • Spread mashed avocado on one side of each muffin or bread slice.
  • Layer tomato slices, lettuce or baby spinach leaves, and cooked tofu on top of the avocado spread.
  • If desired, drizzle sriracha or hot sauce over the tofu for added heat.
  • Close the sandwich with the remaining muffin or bread slice.
  • Serve the tofu breakfast sandwich as a protein-rich and satisfying breakfast option.
  1. Tofu Pancakes: Ingredients:
  • Firm tofu
  • Rolled oats
  • Banana
  • Almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
  • Maple syrup or sweetener of choice
  • Vanilla extract
  • Baking powder
  • Cinnamon
  • Salt
  • Fresh berries or sliced fruits (for topping)

Instructions:

  • In a blender or food processor, combine crumbled tofu, rolled oats, banana, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
  • Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  • Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
  • Pour the pancake batter onto the skillet, forming small or medium-sized pancakes.
  • Cook the pancakes for a few minutes on each side until they’re golden brown.
  • Serve the tofu pancakes with fresh berries or sliced fruits as a protein-packed and delicious breakfast treat.

Conclusion: With these five high-protein plant-based breakfast ideas featuring tofu as a substitute for eggs, you can start your day with nutritious and flavorful meals. Tofu provides a versatile and protein-rich option for your morning routine. Incorporate these recipes into your breakfast rotation and enjoy the benefits of plant-based protein. Stay tuned for more exciting and nutritious plant-based meal prep ideas in our upcoming posts!

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‘Quinoa’ Instead of ‘Chicken’: 5 High Protein Plant-Based Meal Prep Ideas

white and blue ceramic plate with food

Introduction: If you’re looking for a plant-based alternative to chicken that’s both protein-rich and versatile, quinoa is a fantastic choice. Packed with essential amino acids, fiber, and minerals, quinoa offers a nutritious and satisfying option for your meals. In this post, we’ll explore five high-protein plant-based meal prep ideas featuring quinoa. Get ready to elevate your plant-based cooking with these delicious and protein-packed recipes!

  1. Quinoa “Chicken” Salad: Ingredients:
  • Cooked quinoa
  • Chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • Cucumber, diced
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Red onion, finely chopped
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon juice
  • Olive oil
  • Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  • In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and chopped fresh parsley.
  • In a separate small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  • Drizzle the dressing over the quinoa “chicken” salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
  • Adjust the seasoning to taste.
  • Serve the quinoa “chicken” salad as a refreshing and protein-packed meal or side dish.
  1. Quinoa “Chicken” Stir-Fry: Ingredients:
  • Cooked quinoa
  • Assorted vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
  • Soy sauce
  • Sesame oil
  • Garlic
  • Ginger
  • Red chili flakes (optional)

Instructions:

  • In a hot skillet or wok, heat some sesame oil and stir-fry the assorted vegetables until they’re tender-crisp.
  • Add minced garlic and ginger to the pan and cook for another minute.
  • Add cooked quinoa to the pan and stir-fry for a few minutes until well combined.
  • Drizzle soy sauce over the mixture and add red chili flakes if desired.
  • Toss everything together and cook for a few more minutes.
  • Serve the quinoa “chicken” stir-fry as a satisfying and protein-packed meal.
  1. Quinoa “Chicken” Curry: Ingredients:
  • Cooked quinoa
  • Onion, chopped
  • Garlic, minced
  • Ginger, grated
  • Assorted vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cauliflower)
  • Coconut milk
  • Curry powder
  • Turmeric powder
  • Cumin powder
  • Salt and pepper
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  • In a large pot or pan, sauté chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger until fragrant.
  • Add assorted vegetables to the pot and cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
  • Stir in curry powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, salt, and pepper to coat the vegetables.
  • Pour in coconut milk and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
  • Add cooked quinoa to the pot and stir gently to combine.
  • Serve the quinoa “chicken” curry over rice or with naan bread, garnished with fresh cilantro.
  1. Quinoa “Chicken” Tacos: Ingredients:
  • Cooked quinoa
  • Taco shells or tortillas
  • Avocado
  • Salsa
  • Lime wedges
  • Cilantro (optional)
  • Spices: cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper

Instructions:

  • Heat some oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add cooked quinoa to the skillet and season with cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Sauté the quinoa for a few minutes until it is well seasoned and heated through.
  • Warm up the taco shells or tortillas.
  • Assemble the tacos by filling them with the seasoned quinoa, sliced avocado, salsa, and garnish with cilantro if desired.
  • Serve the quinoa “chicken” tacos as a protein-packed and flavorful meal.
  1. Quinoa “Chicken” Stuffed Bell Peppers: Ingredients:
  • Bell peppers
  • Cooked quinoa
  • Assorted vegetables (such as zucchini, carrots, spinach)
  • Tomato sauce
  • Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme)
  • Vegan cheese (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
  • In a skillet, sauté assorted vegetables until tender.
  • Add cooked quinoa, tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Mix well.
  • Spoon the quinoa “chicken” mixture into the hollowed-out bell peppers.
  • If desired, sprinkle vegan cheese on top of the filling.
  • Place the stuffed bell peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
  • Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve the quinoa “chicken” stuffed bell peppers as a protein-rich and satisfying meal.

Conclusion: With these five high-protein plant-based meal prep ideas featuring quinoa as a substitute for chicken, you can enjoy a range of delicious and nutritious dishes. Quinoa’s versatility and protein content make it an excellent choice for plant-based meals. Incorporate these recipes into your meal prep routine and savor the goodness of quinoa while nourishing your body with plant-based protein. Stay tuned for more exciting and nutritious plant-based meal prep ideas in our upcoming posts!

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‘Mushrooms’ Instead of ‘Beef’: 5 High Protein Plant-Based Meal Prep Ideas

Introduction: If you’re looking for a plant-based alternative to beef that’s both protein-rich and versatile, mushrooms are an excellent choice. With their meaty texture and umami flavor, mushrooms can be transformed into delicious and satisfying dishes. In this post, we’ll explore five high-protein plant-based meal prep ideas featuring mushrooms. Get ready to indulge in a variety of flavorful and protein-packed recipes!

  1. Mushroom “Beef” Stir-Fry: Ingredients:
  • Assorted mushrooms (portobello, shiitake, oyster, etc.), sliced
  • Assorted vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
  • Soy sauce
  • Sesame oil
  • Garlic
  • Ginger
  • Red chili flakes (optional)
  • Brown rice or noodles

Instructions:

  • In a hot skillet or wok, heat some sesame oil and stir-fry the assorted vegetables until they’re tender-crisp.
  • Add minced garlic and ginger to the pan and cook for another minute.
  • Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook until they release their moisture and become tender.
  • Drizzle soy sauce over the mixture and add red chili flakes if desired.
  • Toss everything together and cook for a few minutes until well combined.
  • Serve the mushroom “beef” stir-fry over a bed of cooked brown rice or noodles for a satisfying and protein-packed meal.
  1. Mushroom “Beef” Tacos: Ingredients:
  • Assorted mushrooms (portobello, cremini, shiitake, etc.), sliced
  • Taco shells or tortillas
  • Avocado
  • Salsa
  • Lime wedges
  • Cilantro (optional)
  • Spices: cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper

Instructions:

  • Heat some oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and become tender.
  • Season the mushrooms with cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Sauté the mushrooms for a few more minutes until they are well seasoned.
  • Warm up the taco shells or tortillas.
  • Assemble the tacos by filling them with the seasoned mushrooms, sliced avocado, salsa, and garnish with cilantro if desired.
  • Serve the mushroom “beef” tacos as a protein-packed and flavorful meal.
  1. Mushroom “Beef” Bolognese: Ingredients:
  • Assorted mushrooms (portobello, cremini, shiitake, etc.), finely chopped
  • Onion, finely chopped
  • Garlic, minced
  • Tomato sauce
  • Vegetable broth
  • Tomato paste
  • Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme)
  • Salt and pepper
  • Pasta of your choice

Instructions:

  • In a large skillet, sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
  • Add the finely chopped mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and become tender.
  • Stir in tomato sauce, vegetable broth, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning.
  • Simmer the sauce for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Serve the mushroom “beef” Bolognese sauce over the cooked pasta for a hearty and protein-packed meal.
  1. Mushroom “Beef” Burger: Ingredients:
  • Assorted mushrooms (portobello, cremini, shiitake, etc.), finely chopped
  • Onion, finely chopped
  • Garlic, minced
  • Bread crumbs
  • Flaxseed meal (as a binder)
  • Worcestershire sauce (or soy sauce for a vegan option)
  • Salt and pepper
  • Burger buns
  • Lettuce, tomato, and any desired burger toppings

Instructions:

  • In a skillet, sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
  • Add the finely chopped mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and become tender.
  • Remove the mushroom mixture from the heat and let it cool slightly.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked mushroom mixture, bread crumbs, flaxseed meal, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  • Mix everything together until well combined.
  • Shape the mixture into burger patties.
  • Heat some oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
  • Cook the mushroom “beef” patties for a few minutes on each side until they are browned and heated through.
  • Toast the burger buns and assemble the burgers with lettuce, tomato, and any other preferred toppings.
  • Serve the mushroom “beef” burgers as a delicious and protein-packed alternative to traditional burgers.
  1. Mushroom “Beef” Stew: Ingredients:
  • Assorted mushrooms (portobello, cremini, shiitake, etc.), sliced
  • Onion, chopped
  • Carrots, chopped
  • Celery, chopped
  • Potatoes, diced
  • Garlic, minced
  • Vegetable broth
  • Tomato paste
  • Worcestershire sauce (or soy sauce for a vegan option)
  • Bay leaf
  • Thyme
  • Salt and pepper
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  • In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic until softened.
  • Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook until they release their moisture and become tender.
  • Stir in vegetable broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  • Simmer the stew for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to become tender.
  • Remove the bay leaf before serving.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve the mushroom “beef” stew as a comforting and protein-packed meal.

Conclusion: With these five high-protein plant-based meal prep ideas featuring mushrooms as a substitute for beef, you can enjoy a range of delicious and protein-rich dishes. Mushrooms provide a meaty texture and umami flavor that make them a satisfying choice for plant-based meals. Incorporate these recipes into your meal prep routine and savor the versatility and goodness of mushrooms while nourishing your body with plant-based protein. Stay tuned for more exciting and nutritious plant-based meal prep ideas in our upcoming posts!

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‘Lentils’ Instead of ‘Scallops’: 5 High Protein Plant-Based Meal Prep Ideas

brown beans in black ceramic bowl

Introduction: If you’re searching for a plant-based alternative to scallops that’s both protein-rich and versatile, look no further than lentils. Lentils are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Their tender yet firm texture makes them an excellent substitute for scallops in a variety of dishes. In this post, we’ll explore five high-protein plant-based meal prep ideas featuring lentils. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey with these delightful recipes!

  1. Lentil “Scallop” Stir-Fry: Ingredients:
  • Cooked lentils (green or brown)
  • Assorted vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
  • Soy sauce
  • Sesame oil
  • Garlic
  • Ginger
  • Red chili flakes (optional)
  • Brown rice or noodles

Instructions:

  • In a hot skillet or wok, heat some sesame oil and stir-fry the assorted vegetables until they’re tender-crisp.
  • Add minced garlic and ginger to the pan and cook for another minute.
  • Add the cooked lentils to the pan, followed by soy sauce and red chili flakes (if desired).
  • Toss everything together and cook for a few minutes until the lentils are heated through.
  • Serve the lentil “scallop” stir-fry over a bed of cooked brown rice or noodles for a satisfying and protein-packed meal.
  1. Lentil “Scallop” Ceviche: Ingredients:
  • Cooked lentils (green or brown)
  • Red onion, finely chopped
  • Tomato, diced
  • Cucumber, diced
  • Avocado, diced
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Lime juice
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • Tortilla chips (for serving)

Instructions:

  • In a bowl, combine the cooked lentils, finely chopped red onion, diced tomato, diced cucumber, diced avocado, and chopped fresh cilantro.
  • Drizzle lime juice and olive oil over the mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined.
  • Refrigerate the lentil “scallop” ceviche for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Serve chilled with tortilla chips for a refreshing and protein-packed appetizer or light meal.
  1. Lentil “Scallop” Pasta: Ingredients:
  • Cooked lentils (green or brown)
  • Pasta of your choice
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic, minced
  • Lemon juice
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper
  • Vegan Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

  • Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
  • Add the cooked lentils to the skillet and cook for a few minutes.
  • Stir in lemon juice, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper.
  • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined.
  • If desired, sprinkle vegan Parmesan cheese on top.
  • Serve the lentil “scallop” pasta as a flavorful and protein-packed meal.
  1. Lentil “Scallop” Chowder: Ingredients:
  • Cooked lentils (green or brown)
  • Onion, finely chopped
  • Celery, finely chopped
  • Carrot, finely chopped
  • Garlic, minced
  • Vegetable broth
  • Coconut milk
  • Dried thyme
  • Bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  • In a pot, sauté the finely chopped onion, celery, carrot, and minced garlic until softened.
  • Add the cooked lentils to the pot and stir to combine.
  • Pour in vegetable broth and coconut milk, and add dried thyme and a bay leaf.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Simmer the chowder for about 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  • Remove the bay leaf before serving.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve the lentil “scallop” chowder as a comforting and protein-rich meal.
  1. Lentil “Scallop” Salad: Ingredients:
  • Cooked lentils (green or brown)
  • Arugula or mixed greens
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Cucumber, diced
  • Red onion, thinly sliced
  • Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • Lemon vinaigrette dressing

Instructions:

  • In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked lentils, arugula or mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and sliced Kalamata olives.
  • Drizzle lemon vinaigrette dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
  • Adjust the seasoning to taste.
  • Serve the lentil “scallop” salad as a refreshing and protein-packed meal or side dish.

Conclusion: With these five high-protein plant-based meal prep ideas featuring lentils as a substitute for scallops, you can enjoy a range of flavorful and protein-rich dishes while exploring the versatility of lentils. Incorporate these recipes into your meal prep routine and savor the deliciousness of lentils while nourishing your body with plant-based protein. Stay tuned for more exciting and nutritious plant-based meal prep ideas in our upcoming posts!