5 High-Protein Dinners That Don’t Involve Meat

SHAKSHOUKA
Photo: KENJI TOMA

Lean protein is one of the building blocks of a healthy diet—but you don't need to go full Paleo to get your fill. In fact, a completely vegetarian diet has more than enough to satisfy the high-protein needs of most moderately active, adult women. While there's lots of debate on the definition of "high protein," pros say any food that provides at least 20 percent of your daily requirement of the nutrient qualifies. For a 150-pound woman, that's roughly 11 grams of protein per meal, says Jen Bruning, R.D., a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Here are five meat-free and completely delicious ways to get your protein fix.

SHAKSHOUKA
Protein: 16 grams

Never had this one-skillet wonder? Eggs baked in tomato sauce are must-have: Ready in a half hour, and super satisfying to boot.  

Get the recipe for shakshouka here.

Photo: LEVI BROWN

DRY-FRIED TOFU AND PUMPKIN CURRY
Protein: 17 grams

Like your favorite Indian takeout with a sweet twist, this dish is meat-free and still full of the lean muscle-building nutrient you crave.

Get the curry recipe here.

Photo: CHRISTOPHER TESTANI

"REFRIED" BEAN AND EGG TACOS
Protein: 19 grams

If you're in the mood for breakfast for dinner, these Tex-Mex beauties deliver a fiesta of plant-based metabolism-revving protein thanks to the double whammy of white beans and eggs. They also make a KILLER brunch spread. (Hit the reset button—and burn fat like crazy with The Body Clock Diet!)

Get the taco recipe here.

Photo: CHARLES MASTERS

THE WORKS PIZZA
Protein: 12 grams

This vegetable-packed pizza will make you forget that you ever wanted meat on a pie. Loaded down with fiber-rich veggies and fresh mozzarella, this is a meal with some serious staying power.

Get the pizza recipe here.

Photo: KANA OKADA

PASTA ALLA NORMA
Protein: 13 grams

Who says veggie pasta can't be power food? Twirl your fork into this hearty bowl of whole-wheat noodles topped with summer's best—eggplant, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and salty ricotta salata. We dare you to tell us it isn't as good as any meatball.

Get the pasta recipe here.

SOURCE: Womenshealthmag