, ,

24 High-Protein, Low-Calorie Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Eating

If you do not eat meat and are looking for high-protein, low-calorie vegetarian recipes then this is for you!

Maintaining a vegetarian diet and meeting protein goals while staying low in calories can be challenging.

In this post, we’ve selected 24 high-protein, low-calorie vegetarian dishes that not only pack a powerful nutritional punch but also deliver flavor and variety.

24 High-Protein, Low-Calorie Vegetarian Recipes

1. Lentil and Vegetable Stir-Fry

Close-up of broccoli lentil stir fry served with turmeric rice

A savory stir-fry made with protein-rich lentils, mixed vegetables, and a light soy sauce, perfect for a quick and nutritious meal.

Calories: 446 kcal

Protein: 24 g

Carbohydrates: 86 g

Fiber: 19 g

Calcium: 86 mg

Fat: 2 g

Sodium: 58 mg

Sugar: 6 g

Potassium: 1032 mg

Vitamin A: 404 IU

Vitamin C: 57 mg

Iron: 7 mg

2. Chickpea and Spinach Salad

Overhead of the finished spinach chickpea salad in a white bowl with a linen and serving utensils.

A refreshing salad combining chickpeas, fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette, ideal for a light lunch.

Calories: 397 kcal

Protein: 10.6 g

Carbohydrates: 25.8 g

Fiber: 9 g

Calcium: 120 mg

Fat: 30.4 g

Sodium: 769.8 mg

Sugar: 4.9 g

Potassium: 900 mg

Vitamin A: 3500 IU

Vitamin C: 30 mg

Iron: 3.5 mg

3. Tofu and Broccoli Stir-Fry

A wok with tofu, broccoli, and green onions

Crispy tofu and steamed broccoli tossed in a garlic-ginger sauce, creating a satisfying, high-protein dish that’s low in calories.

Calories: 324 kcal

Protein: 18 g

Carbohydrates: 30 g

Fiber: 9 g

Calcium: 229 mg

Fat: 18 g

Sodium: 700 mg

Sugar: 9 g

Potassium: 1237 mg

Vitamin A: 1985 IU

Vitamin C: 274 mg

Iron: 4 mg

4. Quinoa and Black Bean Bowl

Overhead shot of Quinoa Black Bean Burrito Bowl with avocado, shredded cheese and tomatoes.

A hearty bowl filled with fluffy quinoa, black beans, avocado, and a squeeze of lime, packed with fiber and protein.

Calories: 480 kcal

Protein: 25 g

Carbohydrates: 80 g

Fiber: 21 g

Calcium: 81 mg

Fat: 7 g

Sodium: 10 mg

Sugar: 1 g

Potassium: 1051 mg

Vitamin A: 220 IU

Vitamin C: 6.3 mg

Iron: 6.5 mg

5. Greek Yogurt with Berries and Almonds

Yogurt on berries topped with almond slices.  One in a glass ball jar and one in a white bowl.

Creamy Greek yogurt topped with fresh berries and crunchy almonds, providing a balanced snack with a boost of protein.

Calories: 235 kcal

Protein: 14.4 g

Carbohydrates: 26.6 g

Fiber: 4 g

Calcium: 200 mg

Fat: 9 g

Sodium: 51.4 mg

Sugar: 21.4 g

Potassium: 400 mg

Vitamin A: 300 IU

Vitamin C: 10 mg

Iron: 1 mg

6. Egg White and Veggie Omelette

An egg white omelette on a plate served with a fork and fresh basil.

A fluffy omelette made with egg whites, filled with sautéed vegetables like spinach and cherry tomatoes, for a low-calorie, protein-packed breakfast.

Calories: 247 kcal

Protein: 24 g

Carbohydrates: 7 g

Fiber: 1 g

Calcium: 60 mg

Fat: 12 g

Sodium: 1074 mg

Sugar: 3 g

Potassium: 227 mg

Vitamin A: 800 IU

Vitamin C: 15 mg

Iron: 1.5 mg

7. Cottage Cheese with Cucumber and Tomato

salad with cucumbers, tomato, and cottage cheese in white bowl

A simple yet satisfying dish of cottage cheese mixed with diced cucumbers and tomatoes, offering a light and refreshing protein boost.

Calories: 138 kcal

Protein: 15 g

Carbohydrates: 8 g

Fiber: 1 g

Calcium: 96 mg

Fat: 5 g

Sodium: 459 mg

Sugar: 3 g

Potassium: 318 mg

Vitamin A: 200 Iu

Vitamin C: 10 mg

Iron: 1 mg

8. Edamame and Snap Pea Salad

a white ceramic serving bowl filled with edamame salad.

A vibrant salad featuring edamame and snap peas tossed with a sesame dressing, rich in plant-based protein and low in calories.

Calories: 177 kcal

Protein: 12 g

Carbohydrates: 22 g

Fiber: 6 g

Calcium: 106 mg

Fat: 6g

Sodium: 261 mg

Sugar: 11 g

Potassium: 598 mg

Vitamin A: 641 IU

Vitamin C: 37 mg

Iron: 4 mg

9. Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa and Tofu

quinoa and veggies stuffed in a red bell pepper

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a flavorful mix of quinoa, tofu, and herbs, baked to perfection for a protein-rich meal.

Calories: 401 kcal

Protein: 17 g

Carbohydrates: 55 g

Fiber: 9 g

Calcium: 177 mg

Fat: 13 g

Sodium: 200 mg

Sugar: 6 g

Potassium: 758 mg

Vitamin A: 4822 IU

Vitamin C: 157 mg

Iron: 5 mg

10. Basil Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Whipped Tofu Ricotta

Basil Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Whipped Tofu Ricotta

Spiralized zucchini noodles tossed with a light basil pesto and whipped tofu ricotta, creating a low-carb, protein-filled pasta alternative.

Calories: 361 kcal

Protein: 12 g

Carbohydrates: 31 g

Fiber: 4 g

Calcium: 122 mg

Fat: 23 g

Sodium: 705 mg

Sugar: 7 g

Potassium: 707 mg

Vitamin A: 1092 IU

Vitamin C: 23

Iron: 2.1 mg

11. Spicy Buffalo Chickpea Wraps

Wood board of Buffalo Chickpea Wraps rolled in parchment paper and tied with twine

Warm tortillas filled with spiced chickpeas, crunchy veggies, and buffalo sauce, offering a satisfying and portable high-protein meal

Calories: 254 kcal

Protein: 9.1 g

Carbohydrates: 39.4 g

Fiber: 5.7 g

Calcium: 183 mg

Fat: 6.7 g

Sodium: 696 mg

Sugar: 5.6 g

Potassium: 1002 mg

Vitamin A: 7290 IU

Vitamin C: 9.5 mg

Iron: 7.4 mg

12. Cauliflower Rice and Tempeh Stir-Fry

Image of tempeh stir fry served on a white plate with chopsticks and a cast iron pan in the background

A low-carb stir-fry made with cauliflower rice and marinated tempeh, packed with protein and flavor.

Calories: 526 kcal

Protein: 22.8 g

Carbohydrates: 53.6 g

Fiber: 9.9 g

Fat: 26.3 g

Sodium: 636 mg

Sugar: 14 g

13. Mushroom and Spinach Frittata

Mushroom and Spinach Frittata

High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegetarian Recipes

A baked frittata featuring earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach, delivering a delicious high-protein breakfast or brunch option.

Calories: 167 kcal

Protein: 12 g

Carbohydrates: 4 g

Fiber:2 g

Fat: 12 g

Sodium: 349 mg

Sugar: 2 g

14. Greek Yogurt and Chickpea Salad

chickpea salad in bowl with lemon wedges and spoon

High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegetarian Recipes

A creamy salad with chickpeas, pickles, and Greek yogurt, creating a protein-rich and refreshing dish.

Calories: 215 kcal

Protein: 14 g

Carbohydrates: 32 g

Fiber: 10 g

Calcium: 131 mg

Fat: 5 g

Sodium: 803 mg

Sugar: 2 g

Potassium: 458 mg

Vitamin A: 278 IU

Vitamin C: 5 mg

Iron: 3m

15. Grilled Tofu Skewers with Vegetables

High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegetarian Recipes

Tofu cubes and colorful vegetables marinated and grilled to perfection, offering a smoky, protein-packed meal.

Calories: 301 kcal

Protein: 17 g

Carbohydrates: 19 g

Fiber: 5 g

Calcium: 428 mg

Fat: 20 g

Sodium: 2466 mg

Sugar: 8 g

Potassium: 1005 mg

Vitamin C: 102 mg

Iron: 9 mg

16. Vegetarian Chili with Beans and Lentils

Bowls of our hearty protein-packed vegan Lentil and Black Bean Chili recipe

High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegetarian Recipes

A hearty, spiced chili made with beans, lentils, and tomatoes, delivering a warm and filling protein-rich dish.

Calories: 320 kcal

Protein: 15.9 g

Carbohydrates: 52.4 g

Fiber: 18.9 g

Fat:6.8 g

Sodium: 427 mg

Sugar: 10 g

17. Protein-Packed Smoothie with Greek Yogurt and Spinach

smoothies on a tray

High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegetarian Recipes

A creamy smoothie blending Greek yogurt, fresh spinach, and your favorite fruits, perfect for a quick, high-protein breakfast.

Calories: 249 kcal

Protein: 13 g

Carbohydrates: 40 g

Fiber: 9 g

Calcium: 284 mg

Fat: 5 g

Sodium: 247 mg

Sugar: 27 g

Potassium: 560 mg

Vitamin A: 5700 IU

Vitamin C: 20.7 mg

Iron: 2.7 mg

18. Quinoa and Roasted Veggie Salad

mediterranean quinoa salad recipe

High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegetarian Recipes

A nutritious salad featuring fluffy quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette, packed with protein and fiber.

Calories: 239 kcal

Protein: 4.8 g

Carbohydrates: 22.4 g

Fiber: 7 g

Calcium: 26 mg

Fat: 16.2 g

Sodium: 15 mg

Sugar: 7 g

Potassium: 564 mg

Vitamin A: 60 IU

Vitamin C: 15.3 mg

Iron: 1.44 mg

19. Black Bean and Avocado Salad

Spoon in a bowl of black bean salad with corn, avocado, and lime vinaigrette.

High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegetarian Recipes

A zesty salad with black beans, diced avocado, corn, and a lime dressing, offering a delicious mix of flavors and plant-based protein.

Calories: 464 kcal

Protein: 13 g

Carbohydrates: 52 g

Fiber: 15 g

Fat: 24 g

Sodium: 591 mg

Sugar: 7 g

20. Spaghetti Squash with Tomato Sauce and Lentils

Lentil Bolognese | This vegan Lentil Bolognese Spaghetti Squash makes a hearty dinner! vegan bolognese recipe, vegan recipe

High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegetarian Recipes

Spaghetti squash strands topped with a hearty tomato and lentil sauce, providing a low-calorie, high-protein pasta alternative.

Calories: 282.8 kcal

Protein: 13 g

Carbohydrates: 47.2 g

Fiber: 9.7 g

Calcium: 80 mg

Fat: 6.6 g

Vitamin A: 11750 IU

Vitamin C: 33.8 mg

Iron: 3.9 mg

21. Tempeh Hash with Brussels Sprouts

Tempeh Hash with Brussels Sprouts
High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegetarian Recipes

Marinated tempeh baked alongside crispy roasted Brussels sprouts, creating a savory, protein-packed meal.

Calories: 371 kcal

Protein: 18 g

Carbohydrates: 58 g

Fiber: 8 g

Calcium: 141 mg

Fat: 4 g

Sodium: 79 mg

Sugar: 13 g

Vitamin A: 470 IU

Vitamin C: 77 mg

Iron: 5 mg

22. Vegetarian Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Stuffed zucchini boats

High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegetarian Recipes

Zucchini halves stuffed with a mix of quinoa, beans, and veggies, baked until tender for a nutritious, protein-rich dish.

23. Protein Pancakes with Greek Yogurt and Berries

stack of gluten free yogurt pancakes topped with raspberries

High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegetarian Recipes

Fluffy pancakes made with protein-rich ingredients, topped with Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a satisfying breakfast.

Serving Size: 3 pancakes

Calories: 287

Protein: 14.8 g

Carbohydrates: 36.8 g

Fiber: 5.6 g

Fat: 9.5 g

Sugar: 1.8 g

24. Tofu and Veggie Lettuce Wraps

Easy and healthy lettuce wraps served on a plate 
High-Protein Low-Calorie Vegetarian Recipes

Crisp lettuce leaves filled with stir-fried tofu and vegetables, offering a light, high-protein, and low-calorie meal.

Calories: 169 kcal

Protein: 11 g

Carbohydrates: 21 g

Fiber: 4 g

Calcium: 78 mg

Fat: 5 g

Sugar: 8 g

Potassium: 683 mg

Vitamin A: 5035 IU

Vitamin C: 6 mg

Iron: 3 mg


Incorporating high-protein, low-calorie vegetarian dishes into your diet doesn’t have to be hard.

With these 24 high-protein, low-calorie vegetarian recipes, you have options to fuel your body, satisfy your taste buds, and keep your meals exciting.

Remember, a balanced diet is key to a healthy lifestyle, and with these 24 high-protein, low-calorie vegetarian recipes, you’re on a path to achieving your health goals while enjoying every bite. Happy cooking!


Welcome to the Vital Life Club

Welcome to the Vital Life Club! Discover inspiration for meal ideas, health, wealth, and more on your journey to a better life! We hope you enjoy and gain value out of our blogs!

Connect

Categories