15 High-Protein Vegetarian Dinners That Aren't Just Salads

I tried to go vegetarian, but I only lasted eight months. However, I still try to do the occasional Meatless Monday and cook something filling that's not a quesadilla or mac and cheese. I'm always looking for meals I can have after lifting weights at the gym or before a long night of studying. The goal here is to not miss the meat but still get the protein. Here are 15 high-protein vegetarian dinners that will allow you to achieve that goal. 

1. Black Bean Taco Salad

Black bean taco salad is the perfect way to satisfy those cravings for Mexican food without missing the meat. Feta cheese and red pepper add an interesting bite to this protein-packed salad. 

2. Edamame Pasta

Edamame Pasta is a new take on your favorite carbohydrate. You can use it as a substitute in all your Mom's famous pasta recipes. Edamame pasta has tons of protein and you won't even be able to tell that it's healthy spaghetti. Try using edamame pasta in this vegetarian pasta carbonara.

3. Tempeh Kale Salad

Tempeh, chickpeas, and apples make this kale salad irresistibly filling and full of flavor. You can also add whatever type of nuts you like (almonds, pecans, walnuts, etc.) to pack more protein into it.

4. Caramelized Onion and Hummus Sandwich

Hummus is high and protein and is an irresistible alternative to mayo. Caramelized onions add a whole new level of sweet flavor to this extraordinary sandwich. 

5. Vegetarian Beer Chili

It's fall and the days are starting to get cooler. Nothing is better than watching your home team beat the enemy and eating spoonfuls of warm chili. This recipe uses a bottle of your favorite dark beer, and the alcohol cooks out but adds a richness to the chili.

6. Spicy Chickpea Burgers

Take a break from those dining hall black bean burgers with this spicy chickpea burger. This high-protein vegetarian dinner tastes best when topped with tons of fresh avocado and Sriracha mayo. 

7. Vegan Pesto Pasta

With a pasta this flavorful, you won't even know it's vegan. It's complete with cannelini beans for tons of added protein. The nutritional yeast gives it that classic cheesy flavor found in all your fave pasta dishes. 

8. Quinoa and Chickpea Salad

Quinoa and chickpeas are two superfoods that are full of fiber and protein. The avocado gives this salad more superfood goodness. If you're looking for an extremely protein-packed lunch, add almonds or walnuts. 

9. Stir-Fry with Mixed Veggies and Tofu

Tofu is one of those controversial foods. It's super high in protein and is healthier than meat a lot of the time. However, it's got a texture that a lot of people find peculiar. Either way, some flavorful and spicy stir-fry is sure to get your tastebuds dancing. 

10. Crispy Quinoa Black Bean Burger

You won't miss the meat in this flavorful, not-so-boring burger. You can easily reheat the leftovers for a quick and filling dinner that will get you through your all-nighter. If you want to be extra healthy, serve it with whole wheat or multigrain toast. 

11. Breakfast Fried Rice

Honestly, this fried rice is only considered breakfast because of the eggs. But you can eat it any time of the day. It's full of veggies, chickpeas, and sweet potato. Top with hummus for an extra protein kick. And who says eggs can't be eaten for dinner?

12. High-Protein Vegan Lasagna

This is not your mom's lasagna, but it sure is full of healthy stuff like cashews, fresh spinach, and tofu? Vegan lasagna may sound odd at first, but when all the flavors marry, it'll sure to sweep you off your feet. 

13. Sriracha and Egg Avocado Burrito

Eggs are good for you no matter what time of day it is. Enjoy a unique take on Taco Tuesday with a protein-packed burrito full of eggs, spicy Sriracha, and avocado.

14. Coconut and Quinoa Black Bean Stew

I cannot emphasize how powerful quinoa can be. This coconut and quinoa black bean stew is loaded with protein. It's a refreshing dinner that's perfect after long day of class or a workout. 

15. Black Bean and Butternut Squash Tacos

Have leftovers for Taco Tuesday by making some tacos on Meatless Monday. These black bean and squash tacos are perfect if you're craving Mexican food any day of the week. They are protein-packed and super flavorful. 

Power through your day and feel good after you eat. Meatless Monday doesn't have to be boring, unhealthy, or tasteless. These high-protein vegetarian dinners just turned it into Meatless MonYAY.