21 high-protein vegan meals
There are plenty of great sources of plant-based protein, including lentils, tofu and nuts. Put them to good use in these protein-rich vegan dishes, from mapo tofu to aubergine ragu with cauli rice, and broccoli and peanut soba noodles
Looking for high-protein vegan meals? Want to make the most out of plant-based protein? Check out our recipes below and then take a look at our guide on how to follow a plant-based diet, our other high-protein ideas, tempeh recipes and healthy vegan recipes.
One of the challenges when following a vegan diet is adequate protein intake, as protein is an important macronutrient that the body needs for repair, maintenance and energy. There's a wide variety of plant-based proteins that can be included in your diet, from beans and lentils, to tofu, nuts and seeds. Together with lots of wholegrains and vegetables, you'll be creating the perfectly balanced vegan meal.
For more recipe inspiration, check out our low-calorie vegetarian recipes, low-carb vegetarian recipes and healthy vegetarian recipes. For more healthy recipe inspiration, check out our anti-inflammatory recipes, or for low-cost vegan meals check out our budget vegan recipes. Next discover 10 things I wish I knew before going vegan and the best vegan storecupboard essential ingredients.
High-protein vegan meals
Mushroom bhaji
The perfect midweek vegan dinner, this bhaji comes packed with chestnut mushrooms, garlic, ginger and turmeric. Serve with warm, fluffy naans for mopping all that sauce up.
Crunchy veg and smoked tofu salad with sesame dressing
Try our vibrant salad recipe with crispy golden tofu and crunchy vegetables. This easy dish is vegan and high in protein.
Miso soup with crispy smoked tofu
This gluten-free miso soup with crispy smoked tofu is a perfect midweek meal – it's warming, cleansing and easy to make.
Mapo tofu
This dish celebrates sichuan peppercorns – just add plenty of chiu chow chilli oil to really make it sing.
Broccoli and peanut soba noodles
This fresh recipe is fuss-free and ready in just 20 minutes. The roasted peanuts add a crunchy texture to the dish.
Crispy baked tofu
This versatile, protein-rich ingredient is given the crisp factor with our foolproof method.
Creamy lentils with spinach and thyme
Perfectly suited to those who want a light 5:2-friendly meal, this healthy vegan lentil dish is high in protein but low in fat.
Broccoli, new potato and radish salad
A long-stemmed broccoli, new potato and radish salad that's vegan, easy to make and ready in just 20 minutes – ideal for a midweek meal.
Chinese-style purple sprouting broccoli with tofu
This purple sprouting broccoli with tofu recipe is easy to make and vegan, with a good kick of chilli.
Roast broccoli with lentils and preserved lemon
A combination of roast broccoli with lentils and preserved lemon makes for an easy midweek meal for one. It's vegetarian and ready in under an hour but still delivers big, punchy flavours.
Cauliflower rice with aubergine ragoût
This recipe for cauliflower rice with aubergine ragoût is great for a light meal. By blitzing cauliflower in a food processor, you get the consistency and texture of rice without the carbs. It’s quicker to cook, too.
Quinoa and black bean chilli
This quinoa and black bean chilli recipe is high in protein, low calorie and vegan – but still tastes impossibly creamy.
12. Vegan stir-fry
This low-calorie cumin tofu stir-fry is inspired by the cuisine of Xi’an in central China. Expect bold and punchy flavours, especially from the cumin and chilli.
Vegan moussaka bowls
Ready in just 15 minutes, these vegan moussaka bowls contain the flavours and textures of a slow-cooked dish, without the wait.
Vegan doner with homemade pittas and garlic 'mayo'
This vibrant, easy vegan doner kebab is made using seitan. Serve with creamy garlic mayonnaise, using tofu and warm homemade pittas.
Vegan chickpea curry
This vegan curry is flavoured with ginger, chilli, garam masala, cumin and turmeric, and makes a vibrant midweek meal, ready in less than 30 minutes.
Tofu tacos
Tofu doesn't have to be boring with this recipe for cajun-spiced tofu tacos. They're vegan, low calorie and only need 30 minutes of cooking time.
Shiitake seitan burger with kimchi mayo
Don’t be daunted by the long ingredients list or prep time for this vegan burger: it’s actually a simple process and the results are delicious – this recipe uses added chunky shiitake mushrooms to replicate the texture of mince and to give an umami boost.
Vegan meatballs
Lentils are a great way to make a meal vegetarian. Swap these for your usual meatballs and your family will hardly notice the difference. Plus, they're low cal and ready in just 40 minutes – perfect for midweek.
Tofu piccata
Swap chicken for sautéed tofu in this clever vegan twist on a classic, served with a white wine sauce and long-stemmed broccoli.
Marinated tempeh
The slight spice in this marinade adds flavour and colour to your tempeh. It's the perfect addition to any meal if you're looking for extra protein.
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