"How do you get your protein?"

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….."Why do you eat animals?"

Being vegetarian has its frustrations. Releasing these frustrations here seems to be a reoccurring theme. See HERE.   


I often have to scan the menu for non-meat dishes. I often have a cart full of vegetables, "fake meat" products, and lentils. Oh, and I am accustomed to saying, "Is there meat in this?" at social functions. This is life for me. A life I choose. What I can't stand however is the...


 "Do you get enough protein?" or "Where do you get your protein?" 

Well… here's how. 

Below are 8 methods I use to meet my daily allowance of protein without eating meat.Yes, it's possible. 

Nuts

The easiest (and possibly tastiest) answer is nuts.  All varieties of nuts: almonds, peanuts, cashews, pecans, hazelnuts – you name it.  I eat peanut butter off the spoon… it's an excellent source of protein with 4 grams per tablespoon.  I watch the salt though I try the unsalted nuts to keep the sodium intake low.

Seeds

Remember those amazing roasted pumpkin seeds from childhood Halloween parties?  Who knew they were good for you?  Well, turns out they are.  Along with their squash, sunflower, and sesame. Many of these seeds provide upwards of 33 grams of protein per 100 gram serving.

Dairy

I'm NOT vegan. So I load up on CHEESE.  Cottage cheese, cheddar, goat, feta.  Other dairy products like eggs, milk and ice cream (not my top healthy choice) also provide a substantial amount of protein, with the added benefit of high calcium content.

Beans

Beans are pretty amazing.  One of their remarkable qualities is a wealth of protein, especially strong in black and garbanzo beans.  A quick way for me is to chow down on a bean burger. 

Soy

Soy: nutrition’s favorite utility player.  Between tofu, soy milk, veggie burgers and tempeh, is there anything it can’t do?  Tofu packs a hefty 20 grams of protein per half cup, whereas soy beans boast 14 grams for the same amount.

Cereal

Cereals like Kashi Go Lean can also be good sources of protein. 

Spinach

And last but not least: spinach.  In addition to being delicious (well, now that I’m a grown-up), spinach provides protein as well as fiber and Vitamin A.  Toss in some cheese and double up on the nutrition!

So, get off my back about it. I am protein packed!