5 High-Protein Vegetables to Help You Stay Fuller Longer

Vegetables are an essential part of a healthy diet, thanks to the essential vitamins and minerals they contain. Did you know that there are many high-protein vegetables. Protein is necessary to keep you going, and it also has the benefit of keeping you fuller longer on days when you don’t have an opportunity to have a snack.  Here are five high-protein vegetables to add to your meals.  1. Edamame You can find edamame at many restaurants, but this veggie is an excellent choice to enjoy at home. Edamame has a whopping over 18 grams of protein per cup, making it a great side dish or healthy snack.  These immature soybeans come with a nice, mild taste that you can make your own. Prepare them from scratch or get a freezer bag that prepares quickly in the microwave— add any of your desired spices or other items and you’ll have a great, healthy choice.  Edamame has many essential nutrients like calcium, magnesium, vitamin K and folate.  2. Lentils Lentils are an excellent inexpensive lentils with up to 24 grams of protein per cup.  Resembling small beans, lentils can cook up in minutes and are an excellent addition to soups, sauces and bowls.  You can season lentils in many ways to add a nutritious addition to almost any meal. The legumes are high in iron, fiber and potassium, making them a great source of nutrients.  3. Chickpeas Also known as garbanzo beans, chickpeas are well-known as the main ingredient in hummus. However, there are many ways to prepare in soups, salads, curries, sandwiches or a healthy snack.  With an amazing 39 grams of protein per cup, these versatile legumes are a fantastic plant-based alternative to meat.  Chickpeas are also excellent sources of magnesium, fiber, calcium and choline. They also have a low-glycemic index, making them a good choice for anyone who needs to regulate their blood sugar.  4. Lima beans Lima beans are little legumes that contain several nutrients, making them a great option for a protein-packed side or snack.  These beans contain 12 grams of protein per cup and are great in stews, pasta and casseroles. They also make a great side to add a little extra protein to your meal.  Vegetables are also an excellent source of potassium, fiber, and iron and don’t have any cholesterol.  5. Green Peas  Green peas are a yummy source of many nutrients. Even if you don’t like them plain, you can dress them up with different spices or in recipes.  These peas have eight grams of protein per cup and are also a great source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, iron and magnesium. You can add them to pasta, soups, stews, couscous, pesto, salads and pot pies.  You can get fresh green peas at a farmers market or purchase frozen or canned peas at the store.  Choosing Protein-Rich Vegetables Vegetables are a great source of many vitamins and minerals, but they can also be a great source of protein.  When you add plant-based protein into your diet, you can fuel yourself while cutting out cravings for an excess amount of unhealthy snacks.  By choosing high-protein vegetables, you can fuel yourself for whatever lies ahead.