9 Make-Ahead High-Protein Vegetarian Lunches

Meal prep goes meatless.

One of the biggest challenges of eating meat-free is making sure you're getting in enough protein at every meal, so planning ahead is the name of the game. Rather than winging it at the office cafeteria or settling for a sad desk salad (sans any source of protein), strategically prepping high-protein lunches ahead of time takes out the guesswork when you're ready to dig in.

While it's smart in theory, though, the options for lunches that are high in protein and meat-free and easy to make ahead of time can feel pretty limited. So often, the high-protein part of the equation is the first to go. But recipes involving ingredients like beans, tofu, and tempeh give a boost of filling protein to any meal, and they can play a starring role in lunches that pack up well for wherever your day takes you.

Upgrade your meat-free meal prep with these nine vegetarian lunches—they each check the box for the R.D.-recommended 15 grams of protein at every meal, and they'll stand up well in the fridge and the microwave, too. Because what's the point of making a high-protein vegetarian lunch ahead of time if it's not actually appetizing? With these, you won't have to find out.


Spicy Black Bean Burgers from Skinnytaste

Black bean burger patties are easy to freeze—make a batch, and you'll always have a last-minute lunch option. This recipe serves them up traditionally with a bun, but they can also add a boost of protein to a salad or grain bowl. Get the recipe here.

Per one serving: 363 calories, 18 grams protein


Vegan Mock Chicken Salad from Eating Bird Food

This tofu-based "chicken" salad is deliciously crunchy and creamy on its own, but it's also a perfect lunch served between two slices of bread or wrapped in a tortilla. Get the recipe here.

Per one serving: 303 calories, 15 grams protein


Easy Vegan Tempeh Chili from Live Eat Learn

Chili's one of those foods that holds up incredibly well after it's made, which is good news when the office air conditioning drops to sub-zero temperatures. Get the recipe here.

Per one serving: 522 calories, 30 grams protein