I get this question all the time – actually every time I meet a meat eater – how do you get enough protein in your diet? Well first of all, I do not believe you need as much protein as recommended… but if you’re building muscle and working out, then go for more… more plant-based protein that is!

Top Sources of Plant-Based Protein:

Avocados: A complete protein, with lots of nutrition and protein!  ”Depending on the size, the average avocado contains 3-4 grams of protein and is easily assimilated into the body…, Spread them on toast and top with nutritional yeast, make a dip…, chop into salads and soups or just eat with a spoon.”

Beans: ”Chickpeas, black beans, kidney, adzuki etc. Lots to pick from… ”If you have trouble digesting them, try soaking overnight, draining the soaking water and cooking with a 2-inch piece of Kombu seaweed. You can have a complete meal with beans and rice, make humus, soups, dips, sauces and even brownies.”

Spirulina: ”Considered a superfood, this potent little green being is packed with nutrients, including highly assimilable protein. Ounce-for-ounce, it contains more protein than meat and soy (60-70% according to NaturalNews.com) and contains all the essential amino acids. You can mix the powder into smoothies, blend it into dips, sprinkle over salads and add to cookies/snack bars.”

Green Leafy Veggies: Eat in salads or green smoothies! My favorite are kale and spinach, preferably organic.

Almonds: ”…You can make almond milk, eat them straight, chop them up and throw them in salads, incorporate into dips and sauces, use is raw dessert crusts or make homemade energy bars with an almond base. They are so flavorful and extremely versatile. 1/4 cup contains 8 grams of protein!”

Hemp Seeds:  ”…Use them in pesto, sprinkle them on salads, blend into dips, and make my own hemp milk as a wonderful dairy-free alternative. They contain 6 grams of protein per ounce and all of the essential amino acids.”

Source to quotes: MindBodyGreen.com