Vegan Protein: Meat-free & Flavorful!
More and more people are going vegan these days. Whether it be for personal health, the environment, or a moral imperative, there are several reasons to consider foregoing meat.
Fortunately, there’s never been a better time to do so.
Meatless alternatives not only line the shelves of grocery stores but are becoming a common sight at even the most renowned fast-food restaurants. From the Impossible Burger to Pigless Pork Rinds, you can easily eat meat-free snacks that are still packed with flavor!
We’re going to take a look at our favorite vegan protein snacks that are guaranteed to help both newbie meatless eaters and well-seasoned (pun intended!) veterans alike. Read on for our favorite goodies that are packed with both flavor and clean vegan protein.
Vegan Protein Quiche
For a quick start to your day that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or belly-filling vegan protein, try these vegan mini quiches.Â
Mix chickpea flour with water in a 1:1 ratio until you’ve created an egg-like consistency. Then add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast, a pinch of salt, and your favorite seasonings for flavor (you can’t go wrong with some garlic powder and oregano).Â
Next, whisk in some of your favorite vegetables. Really anything goes — think of these as yummy ways to clean out your fridge. Looking for some inspo? Try adding a combo of sun-dried tomatoes, broccoli, and sauteed onions. For some extra protein and a sausage-y flair, add some diced tempeh sauteed in smoked paprika, cumin, and sage (you can also buy it preseasoned).
Neatly spoon your “quiche” mixture into the muffin cups, then bake at 420ÂşF for 20 minutes. These last 3–5 days covered in the refrigerator and make an easy (and delicious) on-the-go breakfast.Â
Seitan: A Meatless Protein Powerhouse
Seitan is a protein found in wheat that’s commonly known as gluten. Seitan packs 25 grams of protein a serving, making it one of the best plant protein sources available. It has a neutral flavor which allows it to take on the flavors of its surrounding ingredients. If your body can handle gluten, it’s one of the best available sources of vegan protein.Â
Try adding seitan to your vegan mini-quiche or any other meal for added vegan protein. It’s even great sauteed by itself as a side with some toast and scrambled tofu.Â
Savory Hummus
Hummus is a great source of vegan protein: it’s packed not only with protein, but also with healthy fats and several vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Made from chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil, hummus can add some vegan protein into your favorite everyday vegan snacks.
And it’s not just for snacks — use hummus instead of mayonnaise on your favorite sandwich or simply slather it on some toast for a quick bite of vegan protein that’s both satisfying and easy to assemble.
Spread hummus on toasted baguette slices and top with sun-dried tomatoes, figs, and apples for a bruschetta guaranteed to please at your next gathering.Â
Vegan Protein Cookie Dough
You likely already know that chickpeas are a highly versatile food capable of making everything from hummus to chili, but did you know you can use them to make vegan cookie dough?
Take one 15 oz. can of drained chickpeas and mix in a blender with ½ cup of almond flour, a spoonful of your favorite nut butter, a handful of dates, a teaspoon of baking powder, and chocolate chips. Mix until it looks good enough to lick off the spoon — and then do just that!
Mindful Munchies
Nuts and seeds are a great source of vegan protein and are packed with healthy fats and flavor. From cashews to sunflower seeds, shelled or unshelled, raw or roasted, there are so many different ways you can enjoy these mini protein powerhouses.
Better yet, make a snack mix by combining all your favorite nuts and seeds together. Try adding some roasted chickpeas or edamame tossed in paprika and cumin for some additional vegan protein and a spicy flair.Â
Pigless Pork Rinds from Outstanding Foods are another great vegan protein snack filled with flavor. With 21 grams of protein housed in flavors like Hella Hot and Texas BBQ, this vegan snack might just become your new plant-based addiction.
Whether you’re hosting a meatless Monday dinner or loading up on post-workout nutrients, rest assured that many meatless options can be just as delicious as they are nutritious!
Grab a bag of Pigless Pork Rinds from Outstanding Foods today at a store near you.
