22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (2024)

Published: by Addison LaBonte · This post may contain affiliate links.

High protein meals are high in calories, right? Not always. These high-protein vegan recipes have 20 grams of protein or more and 400 calories or less per serving. So, if you’re looking to increase your protein intake on a vegan diet while meeting certain calorie requirements, these dishes are for you.

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (1)

It's important to ensure you are getting enough protein when you have eliminated animal products and are following a vegan diet.

But if you're trying to keep your calorie count down in the process, you've got to check out this collection of high-protein low-calorie recipes.

These high-protein vegan meals include a wide variety of protein sources such as seitan, legumes, tofu, tempeh and TVP for healthy recipes you'll want to add to your weekly meal plans.

High Protein Vegan Recipes

Cheesy Vegan Tofu Scramble

This tofu scramble is perfect when you need a quick breakfast that's high in protein and low in calories. Enjoy alone or mixed with veggies.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (2)

Vegan Protein Pancakes by Rescue Dog Kitchen

Pancakes are typically considered a carb-laden comfort food with not much protein, but this recipe adds vegan protein powder, taking the protein count to 24 grams per serving with just under 400 calories for a hearty and satisfying vegan breakfast.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (3)

Mexican Tofu and Black Bean Scramble by Craving Something Healthy

These healthy breakfast burritos feature protein-packed tofu and black beans, and make for a quick and easy way to start your day. They're also gluten-free using corn tortillas.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (4)

Tangy Tempeh Salad by Hurry the Food Up

Tempeh is one of my favorite vegan protein sources and this tempeh salad is loaded with both protein and flavor! This colorful bowl is made with simple ingredients for a tasty lunch or dinner.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (5)

One-Pot Vegan Red Lentil Chili by Planty of Eats

Not only is this vegan chili a low calorie dish that's packed with protein from both TVP and red lentils, it's also super easy to make in one pot with just 25 minutes of cook time.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (6)

Vegan Chili Mac by My Quiet Kitchen

If you're a fan of chili and pasta, you'll love this vegan chili mac featuring tofu, kidney beans, black beans, and your choice of vegan cheeses.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (7)

Best Seitan Burger Ever by Splash of Taste

This vegan burger made of beetroot, lentils, peanut butter, wheat gluten, and seasonings boasts 27 grams of protein and only 2 grams of fat, clocking in at 173 calories (without a bun of course) so you can enjoy your favorite toppings and condiments while still meeting your calorie goals.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (8)

Buffalo Tempeh Salad by Bowls Are The New Plates

This salad packs 22 grams of protein and features Buffalo tempeh with a flavorful homemade avocado ranch dressing. A perfect vegan lunch or dinner!

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (9)

Vegan Holiday Roast by Shane and Simple

This seitan roast packs 30 grams of protein per serving! Not only is this a great main for the holidays, but it's delicious enjoyed anytime you're in the mood for a comforting main course. Serve with some steamed veggies as a side dish for a complete meal that's both low in calories and satiating.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (10)

Seitan and Pasta in Spicy Peanut Sauce by Kiipfit

If you love spicy food, this seitan and pasta dish is for you! Featuring a flavorful, spicy peanut sauce, this satisfying supper packs in 30 grams of protein per serving.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (11)

Easy & Healthy Vegan Lasagna by Health My Lifestyle

This vegan lasagna is a great option for meal prep! Make it in advance and enjoy the leftovers all week. Featuring lentils and tofu ricotta for extra protein, this baked pasta dish can also be made gluten-free.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (12)

Plant-Based Chickpea Piccata by Go Dairy Free

This chickpea piccata with mushrooms is a vegan take on the popular chicken piccata dish. It's an excellent source of protein, coming in at 29 grams per serving.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (13)

Vegan BBQ Seitan Ribs by My Plantiful Cooking

If you love BBQ food, then you'll love these BBQ seitan ribs! Packing 26 grams of plant protein per serving, these tasty vegan "ribs" are super satisfying.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (14)

Instant Pot Lentil Soup by Rainbow Plant Life

This hearty and rich vegan lentil soup can be made in an instant pot or on the stovetop. Loaded with lentils and veggies, this satisfying soup has 25 grams of protein per serving and is perfect for adding to your vegan meal plan.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (15)

Seitan Chicken by The Hidden Veggies

Chickpeas and vital wheat gluten are a winning combination in this vegan chicken recipe. It's perfect served with a side of your favorite veggies for a satisfying dinner with plenty of protein.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (16)

Slow Cooker Lentil Taco Chili by Peas and Crayons

If you love using your slow cooker, this slow cooker lentil taco chili is for you! Loaded with veggies, lentils and beans, this chili is hearty and satisfying.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (17)

Vegan Baked Ziti

If you're looking for a vegan pasta dish that's both "cheesy" and creamy without any added oil, this vegan baked ziti is the answer! It's also gluten-free, nut-free and soy-free! Easy to make with a combination of chickpea pasta, canned tomato sauce and our sunflower seed ricotta this pasta bake is sure to become a family favorite.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (18)

Sweet Potato Lentil Soup by Feasting Not Fasting

Soups are one of my favorite vegan dinners, and this comforting soup features sweet potatoes, lentils, and carrots for a delicious and hearty meal.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (19)

Easy Lentil Dahl by Nourish Plate

This flavorful lentil dahl is a protein-packed dish that's easy to make and low in calories. It's one of those vegetarian meals you'll want to enjoy on repeat.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (20)

Vegan Thai Basil Stir Fry by Joyful Dumplings

It's great to have a handy vegan stir-fry recipe and this Thai basil stir fry is a winner for sure! Starring tofu and mushrooms, this flavorful dish takes just 15 minutes to cook for an easy midweek meal.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (21)

Kala Chana Salad by Veg Buffet

If you haven't tried black chickpeas before, this kala chana salad is a great place to start. This popular Indian dish packs 20 grams of protein and just 150 calories per serving, making it perfect for a light lunch or dinner with a side of your favorite bread or brown rice.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (22)

Vegan Kung Pao by Flawless Food

Skip the takeout and make this vegan kung pao at home instead! Ready in 30 minutes, this dish features TVP, peppers, cashews, and a homemade kung pao sauce.

Check out this recipe

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (23)

More Vegan Recipe Roundups

  • Vegan Tofu Recipes
  • Vegan Silken Tofu Recipes
  • Oil-Free Vegan Comfort Food Recipes
  • Vegan Air Fryer Recipes
  • Vegan School Lunch Recipes
  • Vegan Sandwich Recipes

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  1. Bree Khid - Planty of Eats

    Great list, they all look so delicious! Thank you so much for including my Red Lentil chili!!!

    Reply

    • Sherri Hall

      Thanks Bree! Thank you for contributing! 🙂

      Reply

  2. Deepti

    Amazing Collection of Recipes! I love the Indian ones especially.

    Reply

    • Sherri Hall

      Thanks so much, Deepti! 🙂

      Reply

22 Best High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegan Recipes (2024)

FAQs

How can vegans get 120g of protein a day? ›

One of the easiest plant-based high protein swaps is to replace your usual pasta with red lentil pasta. It's made from protein-rich red lentil flour, and I like to make a vegan bolognese with it. Adding soy mince is a game-changer too when you're struggling to eat enough protein.

How to get 140g of protein a day vegan? ›

10 High Protein Vegan Snack Ideas
  1. Edamame Beans.
  2. Mixed Nuts.
  3. Soy Yoghurt with Fruit and Seeds.
  4. Pint of Soy Milk.
  5. Peanut Butter on Granary Toast.
  6. Hummus with Vegetable Sticks or Rice Cakes.
  7. Homemade Vegan Protein Bars.
  8. Vegan Protein Smoothie (such as Pea+ Protein)
Jan 20, 2023

What is a low calorie source of protein for vegans? ›

Foods like spinach, Brussels sprouts and green peas all contain decent amounts of protein to balance out your plate. Not to mention, greens are antioxidant-rich, full of fiber and low in calories.

How to get 20g of protein per meal vegan? ›

You even have a fair amount of protein in your broccoli, kale, and cruciferous vegetables." Common plant-based protein sources include: High protein (7 to 20 grams of protein per serving): Almonds, black beans, pinto beans, lentils, peanuts, peanut butter, soybeans, split peas, tempeh, and tofu.

Can you eat too much vegan protein? ›

Bear in mind, too much protein in the diet can also be harmful. Long-term risks include kidney failure and dysfunction, increased risk of renal cancer, weight gain and constipation, and much more according to many studies.

What does 30 grams of protein look like for a vegan? ›

Tofu can often be a staple source of protein for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet: 1 1/2 cups of cooked tofu can provide 30 grams of protein along with some healthy fat. Because tofu is made from soybeans, it's considered a complete protein even though it's from plants.

What veggies have the most protein? ›

Among the highest protein vegetables are chickpeas, corn, spinach, artichoke hearts, and edamame. To get all of the amino acids your body needs, aim to eat a variety of foods, such as legumes, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and vegetables throughout the day.

How can a vegan hit 100g protein? ›

Plant-Based Protein

Right off the bat: you're going to need to work harder to meet your 100-gram protein quota as a vegan or vegetarian. The good news is that it's totally doable, but it requires a bit more focus. Legumes, such as beans, lentils, and peas, are great vegan/vegetarian protein sources.

How much protein do you really need to build muscle vegan? ›

During the bulking phase, the goal is to increase muscle mass without adding unnecessary body fat. To achieve that, athletes resort to resistance training and the maintenance of a positive energy balance, with a protein requirement ranging from 1.6 to 2.2 g/kg of body mass [12].

What do vegans replace protein with? ›

People might worry about getting enough protein, but a carefully considered plant-only diet can give your body all the protein it needs. Some great vegan protein sources include legumes, grains, nuts, and seeds. Plant sources of protein also provide important vitamins and minerals to help improve your overall health.

What do vegans eat instead of meat for protein? ›

Alternate sources of protein

Beans and legumes: Beans and legumes are a rich source of fiber and B vitamins. They are also a great replacement for meat as a source of vegetarian protein. Soy: One cup of boiled soybeans (172 g) contains around 29 grams of protein.

How do vegans add protein to every meal? ›

Try these tips.
  1. Use quinoa instead of rice. ...
  2. Utilize vegan protein powder. ...
  3. Provide your body with essential amino acids. ...
  4. Start each day with protein. ...
  5. Add beans to everything. ...
  6. Sprinkle nutritional yeast on your meals.
May 4, 2023

What is an example of 20 grams of vegan protein? ›

Tofu & Tempeh

100 grams of tofu or tempeh will provide you with approximately 12 to 20 grams of protein. You can add them to your salads or sandwiches or stir-fry them with other veggies for a good burst of flavor.

How to get 120g protein without meat? ›

My top sources in my day-to-day diet are:
  1. Whey Protein Powder (20g per scoop) (I use the MyProtein Whey Impact in the Chocolate Smooth or the Sticky Toffee Pudding flavour)
  2. Eggs (13g for a medium egg)
  3. Greek Yoghurt (10g per 100g of fa*ge Total 0%)
  4. Quorn Pieces (13g per 100g)
  5. Quorn Mince (14g per 100g)
  6. Tofu (10g per 100g)
Apr 2, 2019

How to get 110g of protein a day vegan? ›

100 grams of vegan protein
  1. ¼ cup of protein granola (10 grams of protein)
  2. One scoop of plant-based protein powder (20 grams)
  3. 1 ounce of nuts (5 grams)
  4. Two tablespoons of peanut butter (7 grams)
  5. Two tablespoons of chia seeds (about 10 grams)
  6. One tablespoon of hemp seeds (4 grams)
  7. Two slices of rye bread (10 grams)

What is the biggest source of protein for vegans? ›

Top Protein Sources for Vegans and Vegetarians
  • Tempeh. In Pascale's opinion, the “foremost” protein source for vegans and vegetarians is tempeh, which she describes as a fermented alternative to tofu that's made with a whole soybean. ...
  • Lentils. ...
  • Beans. ...
  • Nut Butters. ...
  • Hemp Seeds. ...
  • Tofu.
Jan 23, 2024

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