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Top 10 Protein Lunch Ideas for Christmas 

December 27, 2023
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Home Featured

Top 10 Protein Lunch Ideas for Christmas 

Festive Feasting: Elevate Your Christmas Lunch with These Protein-Packed Creations

by Lifestylemetro
December 27, 2023
in Featured
protein-lunch-ideas

Image source: Canva

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Introducing the top 10 protein-packed lunch ideas to elevate your Christmas feast! These delectable dishes are not only bursting with flavor but also rich in essential nutrients to keep you energized throughout the holiday season. From succulent turkey and savory salmon to vibrant veggie stir-fries and hearty quinoa salads, these recipes are sure to impress your guests and leave everyone feeling satisfied.

Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a nourishing meal, these top 10 Protein lunch ideas creations are perfect for celebrating the joy of Christmas while treating your taste buds to a delightful culinary experience. Get ready to indulge in a feast of flavors that will make this Christmas lunch a truly foodelicious affair!

 

Table of Contents

Toggle
  • What is a good high-protein lunch?
  • What are the top 10 best protein foods?
    • 1. Herb-roasted turkey breast with quinoa salad
      • How to make Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast with Quinoa Salad:
    • 2. Grilled Lemon, Garlic Shrimp with Avocado and Tomato Salad
      • How to make Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Avocado and Tomato Salad:
  • 3. Baked Salmon with Roasted Vegetables
      • How to make Baked Salmon with Roasted Vegetables:
    • 4. Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers With Ground Turkey
      • How to make Quinoa Stuffed Bell Pepper with Ground Turkey:
    • 5. Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad Homemade Dressing
      • How to make Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Avocado and Tomato Salad:
    • 6. Lentil and Vegetable soup with a side of Greek Yogurt
      • How to make Lentil and Vegetable soup with a side of Greek Yogurt
    • 7. Tofu- Stir-Fry with Mixed Vegetables and Brown Rice
      • How to make Tofu- Stir-Fry with Mixed Vegetables and Brown Rice
    • 8. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Quinoa
      • How to make Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Quinoa
    • 9. Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas with a Side of Greek Yogurt
      • How to make Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas with a Side of Greek Yogurt
    • 10. Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Quinoa and chickpea Salad
      • How to make Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Quinoa and chickpea Salad
  • Conclusion
  • FAQs
    • Do 2 eggs give enough protein?
    • What Vegetable has the most protein?
    • Are sweet potatoes high in protein?

What is a good high-protein lunch?

Good high protein lunch - Protein lunch ideas
Image source: Canva

A good high-protein lunch could be a grilled chicken breast salad with mixed greens, quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of feta cheese, drizzled with a light vinaigrette. Additionally, this meal provides a balanced combination of lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich carbohydrates, making it both satisfying and nutritious. Alternatively, a tofu stir-fry with a colorful assortment of vegetables and a side of brown rice can also be an excellent high-protein lunch option for those following a plant-based diet.

What are the top 10 best protein foods?

1. Herb-roasted turkey breast with quinoa salad

Herb-roasted turkey Breast with Quinoa Salad is one of the best, delicious protein lunch ideas. So, this delightful dish offers a perfect blend of savory herb-roasted turkey and refreshing quinoa salad, making it a delightful and protein-packed meal for any occasion.

To make Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast with Quinoa Salad, follow these steps:

Ingredients:

For the Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast:

– 1 boneless, skinless turkey breast

– two tablespoons olive oil

– minced two cloves of garlic

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

– Salt and pepper to taste

For the Quinoa Salad:

– A cup of quinoa and diced cucumber

– 2 cups water or chicken broth

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

– 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and olive oil.

– Salt and pepper to taste

How to make Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast with Quinoa Salad:

Instructions:

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper to create the herb marinade.
  • Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and rub the herb marinade all over the turkey, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
  • Roast the turkey breast in the preheated oven for about 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  • While the turkey is roasting, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine the quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and fresh parsley.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Pour the dressing over the quinoa salad and toss to combine.
  • Serve the herb-roasted turkey breast slices alongside the quinoa salad.

2. Grilled Lemon, Garlic Shrimp with Avocado and Tomato Salad

Grilled Lemon, Garlic Shrimp with Avocado and Tomato Salad - Protein lunch ideas
Image source: Canva

Grilled lemon, garlic shrimp with avocado, and tomato salad are some of the protein lunch ideas to make for family and friends this festive season. Thus, this dish offers a delightful combination of succulent grilled lemon garlic shrimp and a refreshing avocado and tomato salad. Thereby creating a protein-rich and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

To make Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Avocado and Tomato Salad, follow these steps:

Ingredients:

For the Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– Two tablespoons of olive oil

– Zest of 1 lemon

– Juice of 1 lemon

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Wooden or metal skewers

For the Avocado and Tomato Salad:

– 2 ripe avocados, diced

– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

– Two tablespoons of olive oil

– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

– Salt and pepper to taste

How to make Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Avocado and Tomato Salad:

Instructions:

  • If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
  • In a bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with minced garlic, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly. Let the shrimp marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
  • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  • Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, dividing them evenly.
  • Grill the shrimp skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are opaque and slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough.
  • While the shrimp is grilling, prepare the avocado and tomato salad. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocados, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Pour the dressing over the avocado and tomato salad and gently toss to combine.
  • Once the shrimp is grilled to perfection, remove them from the skewers and serve them alongside the avocado and tomato salad.

 

3. Baked Salmon with Roasted Vegetables

Baked Salmon with Roasted Vegetables - Protein lunch ideas
Image source: Canva

This is one of the easy top 10 protein lunch ideas. So, this dish offers a delightful combination of tender baked salmon and flavorful roasted vegetables, creating a protein-rich and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

To make Baked Salmon with Roasted Vegetables, follow these steps:

Ingredients:

For the Baked Salmon:

– 4 salmon fillets

– Two tablespoons olive oil, minced cloves garlic

– A teaspoon of dried dill, paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Lemon wedges for serving

For the Roasted Vegetables:

– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion), cut into chunks

– olive oil, two tablespoons

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme, dried rosemary

– Salt and pepper to taste

How to make Baked Salmon with Roasted Vegetables:

Instructions:

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, dried dill, salt, and pepper to create the marinade for the salmon.
  • Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the marinade over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  • In a separate bowl, toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
  • Spread the seasoned vegetables on a separate baking sheet.
  • Place both the salmon and the vegetables in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
  • Once done, remove the salmon and vegetables from the oven.
  • Serve the baked salmon alongside the roasted vegetables, and garnish with lemon wedges.

 

4. Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers With Ground Turkey

Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers With Ground Turkey - Protein lunch ideas
Image source: Canva

These quinoa-stuffed bell peppers with ground turkey are one of the best Protein lunch ideas. So, they are a delicious and protein-packed meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. 

To make Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Turkey, follow these steps:

Ingredients:

– 4 large bell peppers (any color), halved and seeds removed

– 1 pound ground turkey

– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

– 1 onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– A can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ground cumin and paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Shredded cheese for topping (optional)

– Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

How to make Quinoa Stuffed Bell Pepper with Ground Turkey:

Instructions:

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add a little olive oil if needed, and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they are soft and fragrant.
  • Add the quinoa to the skillet and toast it for a couple of minutes, stirring frequently.
  • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
  • Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked ground turkey, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • While the quinoa and turkey mixture is simmering, prepare the bell peppers by halving them and removing the seeds.
  • Place the bell pepper halves in a baking dish, and spoon the quinoa and turkey mixture into each pepper half, pressing down gently to fill them.
  • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bell peppers are tender.
  • If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese over the stuffed peppers during the last 5 minutes of baking.
  • Once done, remove the stuffed bell peppers from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.

 

5. Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad Homemade Dressing

Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad Homemade Dressing - Protein lunch ideas
Image source: Canva

This Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad with Homemade Dressing is one of the best Protein lunch ideas. So, it is a classic and satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Enjoy the combination of tender grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and flavorful homemade Caesar dressing!

To make Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad with Homemade Dressing, follow these steps:

Ingredients:

For the Grilled Chicken:

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts,

– Two tablespoons of olive oil

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– Salt and pepper to taste

 

For the Caesar Salad:

– 1 head of romaine lettuce, washed and chopped

– 1/2 cup croutons

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– Lemon wedges for serving

 

For the Homemade Caesar Dressing:

– 1/2 cup mayonnaise

– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2-3 tablespoons water (to adjust consistency)

How to make Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Avocado and Tomato Salad:

Instructions:

  • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  • In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create the marinade for the chicken.
  • Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and rub the marinade all over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Additionally, let the chicken marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
  • Grill the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks. Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  • While the chicken is grilling, prepare the Caesar dressing. In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Add water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
  • In a large bowl, toss the chopped romaine lettuce with the homemade Caesar dressing until the leaves are evenly coated.
  • Divide the dressed romaine lettuce onto serving plates. Top each portion with sliced grilled chicken, croutons, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Serve the Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

 

6. Lentil and Vegetable soup with a side of Greek Yogurt

Lentil and Vegetable soup with a side of Greek Yogurt - Protein lunch ideas
Image source: Canva

One of our top Protein lunch ideas. So, this hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup with a Side of Greek Yogurt is a comforting and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner. Enjoy the wholesome flavors and the added creaminess of the Greek yogurt!

To make Lentil and Vegetable Soup with a Side of Greek Yogurt, follow these steps:

Ingredients:

For the Lentil and Vegetable Soup:

– 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed and drained

– 1 onion, finely chopped

– 2 carrots, diced

– 2 celery stalks, diced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 … can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

– 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley for garnish

 

For the Side of Greek Yogurt:

– Greek yogurt

– Fresh parsley for garnish

How to make Lentil and Vegetable soup with a side of Greek Yogurt

Instructions:

  • In a large pot, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they begin to … soften.
  • Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
  • Stir in the rinsed and drained lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable or chicken broth, dried thyme, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
  • Bring the … soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the soup cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
  • While the soup is simmering, prepare the side of Greek yogurt. … Spoon a dollop of Greek yogurt into each serving bowl.
  • Once the lentils and vegetables are tender, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  • Ladle the hot lentil and vegetable soup into serving bowls, alongside the dollop of Greek yogurt Garnish with fresh parsley.

 

7. Tofu- Stir-Fry with Mixed Vegetables and Brown Rice

Tofu- Stir-Fry with Mixed Vegetables and Brown Rice
Image source: Canva

Another must-make from our top 10 Protein lunch ideas. So, this Tofu Stir-Fry with Mixed Vegetables and Brown Rice is a delicious and nutritious meal that’s packed with plant-based protein and wholesome flavors. Thus, Enjoy the satisfying combination of tender tofu, vibrant vegetables, and nutty brown rice

To make Tofu Stir-Fry with Mixed Vegetables and Brown Rice, follow these steps:

Ingredients:

For the Tofu Stir-Fry:

– 14 oz (400g) firm tofu, drained and cubed

– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, carrots), sliced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

– 3 tablespoons soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch

– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

– Sliced green onions for garnish (optional)

 

For the Brown Rice:

– 1 cup brown rice

– 2 cups water

How to make Tofu- Stir-Fry with Mixed Vegetables and Brown Rice

Instructions:

  • Cook the brown rice according to the package instructions. Thus, this usually involves rinsing the rice, combining it with water in a pot, bringing it to a boil, then reducing the heat to a simmer and covering the pot until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
  • While the rice is cooking, prepare the tofu and vegetables for the stir-fry.
  • In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch to create the stir-fry sauce. Additionally, set it aside for later use.
  • In a large non-stick skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu and cook until it’s golden brown on all sides. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.
  • In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
  • Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp.
  • Return the cooked tofu to the skillet with the vegetables.
  • Pour the stir-fry sauce over the tofu and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce and allow it to thicken.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Once the tofu and vegetables are coated in the sauce and everything is heated through, remove the skillet from the heat.
  • Serve the tofu stir-fry alongside the cooked brown rice.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, if desired.

 

8. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Quinoa

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Quinoa
Image source: Canva

One of the best Protein lunch ideas. So, this Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Quinoa is a flavorful and protein-rich meal that’s perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner. So, enjoy the tender beef, vibrant broccoli, and nutty quinoa in this delicious stir-fry!

To make Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Quinoa, follow these steps:

Ingredients:

For the Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry:

– 1 pound (450g) flank steak, thinly sliced

– 3 cups broccoli florets

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

– 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce

– 1 tablespoon … … cornstarch

– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

– Sliced green onions for garnish (optional)

 

For the Quinoa:

– 1 cup quinoa

– 2 cups water or beef broth

How to make Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Quinoa

Instructions:

  • Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine the quinoa and water or beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch to create the stir-fry sauce. Additionally, set it aside for later use.
  • In a large non-stick skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced flank steak and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until it’s browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and stir-fry for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
  • Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp.
  • Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the broccoli.
  • Pour the stir-fry sauce over the beef and broccoli. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce and allow it to thicken.
  • Once the beef and broccoli are coated in the sauce and everything is heated through, remove the skillet from the heat.
  • Serve the beef and broccoli stir-fry alongside the cooked quinoa.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, if desired.

 

 

9. Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas with a Side of Greek Yogurt

Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas with a Side of Greek Yogurt
Image source: Canva

A simple and one of our top 10 Protein lunch ideas. So, these Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas with a Side of Greek Yogurt are a delicious and protein-packed meal that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. Enjoy the flavorful combination of black beans, corn, and melted cheese in a warm and crispy tortilla, paired with the creamy tanginess of Greek yogurt!

To make Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas with a Side of Greek Yogurt, follow these steps:

Ingredients:

For the Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas:

– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

– A cup of corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)

– One diced red bell pepper, diced small onion

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin, chili powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 4 large flour tortillas

– 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Monterey Jack)

– Olive oil or cooking spray

 

For the Side of Greek Yogurt:

– Greek yogurt

– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

How to make Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas with a Side of Greek Yogurt

Instructions:

  • In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and diced red bell pepper. Sauté for 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
  • Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
  • Stir in the drained and rinsed black beans, corn kernels, ground cumin, and chili powder. So, cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Lay a flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Next, spread a layer of the black bean and corn mixture over half of the tortilla. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the bean mixture. Finally, fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
  • Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
  • Wipe the skillet clean and return it to medium heat. Lightly brush one side of each quesadilla with olive oil or spray with cooking spray. Place the quesadillas, oiled side down, in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
  • While the quesadillas are cooking, prepare the side of Greek yogurt by spooning a dollop of Greek yogurt into a serving bowl.
  • Once the quesadillas are done, remove them from the skillet and place them on a cutting board. Cut each quesadilla into wedges.
  • For dipping, serve the black bean and corn quesadillas with a side of Greek yogurt.
  • Garnish the Greek yogurt with chopped fresh cilantro.

 

10. Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Quinoa and chickpea Salad

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Quinoa and chickpea Salad
Image source: Canva

The last of our top 10 Protein lunch ideas that are perfect for you and your family. So, this dish offers a delightful combination of hearty grilled portobello mushrooms and a refreshing quinoa and chickpea salad, making it a satisfying and protein-rich meal that’s perfect for any occasion. 

Here’s a recipe for Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Quinoa and Chickpea Salad:

Ingredients:

For the Grilled Portobello Mushrooms:

– 4 large portobello mushrooms

– 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– Salt and pepper to taste

 

For the Quinoa and Chickpea Salad:

– 1 cup quinoa

– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

– One  diced cucumber

– 1 red bell pepper, diced

– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 2 tablespoons lemon juice

– Salt and pepper to taste

How to make Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Quinoa and chickpea Salad

Instructions:

  • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create the marinade for the portobello mushrooms.
  • Clean the portobello mushrooms and remove the stems. So, brush the marinade over both sides of the mushrooms and let them marinate for about 10-15 minutes.
  • While the mushrooms are marinating, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine the quinoa and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
  • Combine the cooked quinoa, drained and rinsed chickpeas, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, chopped red onion, and fresh parsley in a large bowl.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing for the quinoa and chickpea salad. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
  • Place the marinated portobello mushrooms on the preheated grill. Then, grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the mushrooms are tender and have grill marks.
  • Once the mushrooms are done, remove them from the grill.
  • Serve the grilled portobello mushrooms with a generous portion of the quinoa and chickpea salad.

 

Conclusion

protein-packed lunch ideas for Christmas
Image source: Canva

These top 10 protein-packed lunch ideas for Christmas offer a delightful array of flavorful and nutritious options to elevate your holiday dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply seeking wholesome and satisfying meals, these recipes provide a perfect balance of essential nutrients and delicious flavors. From succulent turkey and salmon to vibrant plant-based dishes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Therefore, embrace the joy of the season by treating yourself and your loved ones to these foodelicious and protein-rich creations, and make this Christmas a celebration of both good food and good health. Wishing you a merry and nourishing holiday season!

FAQs

 

Do 2 eggs give enough protein?

Yes, two eggs provide a significant amount of protein. A single large egg typically contains around 6-7 grams of protein, so two eggs would provide approximately 12-14 grams of protein. Hence, this can be a substantial portion of the recommended daily protein intake for many people. Additionally, eggs are a good source of other essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to a balanced diet.

What Vegetable has the most protein?

Among vegetables, soybeans are known to have the highest protein content. Thus, they are considered a complete protein source, containing all the essential amino acids that the body needs. Additionally, other high-protein vegetables include lentils, chickpeas, black beans, and green peas. While vegetables generally contain less protein than animal products, they can still be valuable protein sources, especially for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Are sweet potatoes high in protein?

Sweet potatoes are not considered high-protein foods compared to sources like meat, dairy, and legumes. However, they do contain a small amount of protein. A medium-sized sweet potato provides around 2 grams of protein. While sweet potatoes are not a primary source of protein, they are valued for their complex carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to a balanced diet.

 

Other related articles:

  • 11 of the Most Nutrient-dense Foods You Can Eat
  • 9 Amazing Benefits of Bitter Kola Nut
  • Healthy Eating Tips

 

Tags: Christmas DiningChristmas LunchChristmas MenuDelicious And HealthyFestive RecipesGourmet ChristmasHealthy EatingHigh Protein RecipesHoliday CookingHoliday FeastNutritious Lunch IdeasProtein Packed MealsSatisfying Holiday MealsSeasonal SavorWholesome Holiday Eats
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