When most people hear the word “protein” they think steak, chicken, and other animal proteins. But, what exactly are plant-based proteins?

Health coach, Sharon Dangles, tells us that plant-based diets contain such a wide variety of amino acid profiles that it is possible to get all your protein requirements without eating animal products. You just need to be sure you eat balanced, healthy meals, with a range of ingredients.

Here are 10 of the best plant-based proteins to add to your diet, and which Splendid meals you can find them in!!

1. Lentils

Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, with around 18 grams of protein per cup cooked. They are also a good source of fiber, iron, and folate. Lentils are a staple in the Splendid lineup, starring in the Red Lentil Dal and Spiced Lentil & Chickpea Stew!

2. Chickpeas

Chickpeas are another great source of protein, with around 15 grams of protein per cup cooked. They are also high in fiber, iron, and magnesium. Chickpeas are a powerhouse protein, feuling us all day long as the main ingredient in our Falafel Dish.

3. Quinoa

Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. It has around 8 grams of protein per cup cooked, along with fiber, iron, and magnesium. If there’s one ingredient we love at Splendid, it’s quinoa. It’s the plant powered protein in many of our meals, including customer favorite Vegetable Bolognese!

4. Tofu

Tofu is a versatile source of protein, with around 10 grams of protein per 100 grams. It is also a good source of calcium and iron. Our Dan Dan Noodles boasts 28 grams of protein per container and is chock-full of silky tofu.

5. Black Beans

Black Beans contain around 15 grams of protein per cup cooked and are also high in fiber, iron, and folate. Get your fill of black beans in our Brown Rice Taco Bowl.

6. Edamame

Edamame is a young soybean that is high in protein, with around 18 grams of protein per cup cooked. It is also a good source of fiber, iron, and calcium. Find edamame in our Kimchi Fried Quinoa Grain Bowl.

7. Hemp seeds

Hemp seeds are a great source of plant-based protein, with around 10 grams of protein per 3 tablespoons. They are also high in healthy fats, fiber, and magnesium. Hemp seeds can be found in some of our Smoothies, like the powerhouse Power Greens!

8. Chia seeds

Chia seeds are another good source of protein, with around 5 grams of protein per 2 tablespoons. They are also high in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and calcium. Chia seeds boost the protein amount in our Smoothies, like the Carrot Ginger Chia Smoothie!

9. Almonds

Almonds are a good source of protein, with around 6 grams of protein per 1/4 cup. They are also high in healthy fats, fiber, and magnesium. Almonds and almond butter lend a creamy nutty taste to our smoothies, like the Cacao Almond Smoothie and Hidden Greens Smoothie.

10. Spirulina

Spirulina is a blue-green algae that is high in protein, with around 4 grams of protein per tablespoon. It is also a good source of iron, calcium, and antioxidants. Find spirulina in our Tropical Greens Juice and Coconut Lime Smoothie!