Looking to add more protein to your diet without sticking to the same old chicken and eggs? Here are 10 weird—but surprisingly delicious—high-protein foods that can spice up your meals and boost your nutrition.
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Cottage Cheese Ice Cream – Yes, you read that right! This creamy dessert trend is packed with protein and can be customized with fruits or nuts for a sweet and satisfying treat.
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Cricket Protein Powder – Insects are sustainable and protein-rich. Cricket powder has a nutty flavor and works well in smoothies, baked goods, and protein bars.
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Lupini Beans – These pickled legumes are popular in Mediterranean countries and offer around 26g of protein per cup with a satisfying crunch.
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Seitan (Wheat Meat) – Made from wheat gluten, seitan has a meaty texture and up to 25g of protein per serving. It soaks up marinades beautifully.
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Spirulina – This blue-green algae is often sold in powder form. Just one tablespoon contains about 4g of protein, plus loads of antioxidants.
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Tempeh Bacon – Fermented soybeans sliced thin and seasoned like bacon. It’s smoky, crispy, and full of plant-based protein.
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Pumpkin Seed Butter – A unique alternative to peanut butter with a similar texture and about 8g of protein per two tablespoons.
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Canned Octopus – Don’t knock it until you try it! It’s tender, flavorful, and packed with lean protein.
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Black Soybeans – Lower in carbs and higher in protein than regular beans, they’re great in salads or chili.
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Protein Pasta (Chickpea or Lentil-Based) – Pasta that packs a punch with up to 20g of protein per serving—and it tastes great too!
