Why Eating Vegetarian with a Side of Protein Has Its Advantages
I’ve always loved meat. Growing up, it was the centrepiece of every meal—whether it was a roast on a Sunday or a curry midweek. Meat was simply how we ate.
That all changed when I met my wife. She’s not what I’d call an “official vegetarian,” but she prefers vegetarian meals whenever possible. Her reasons combine ethical considerations with the fact that she doesn’t enjoy the texture of many meats. This prompted me to rethink my own eating habits, especially since protein is such an important part of a balanced diet.
Here at Slade Gym Sevenoaks, we frequently work with clients who aren’t big fans of meat, yet one of the first tasks in any nutritional plan is almost always increasing protein intake. Finding easy, high-protein, fibre-rich vegetarian recipes that taste great has become a regular part of my approach—both personally and professionally.
Exploring Vegetarian Meals
In the last few years, my wife and I have made a conscious effort to incorporate more vegetarian meals into our routine. It’s been a fun and rewarding experience. I’ve discovered how versatile vegetarian cooking can be and even perfected a mean aubergine dhansak!
Eating vegetarian, when done thoughtfully, offers a range of benefits:
- High Fibre Content: Vegetarian meals are packed with fibre, supporting healthy digestion.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: They’re full of essential nutrients that help you feel your best.
- Protein Potential: With the right ingredients, such as lentils, beans, and pulses, you can still hit your protein goals.
- Cost-Effective: Vegetarian meals can be budget-friendly by reducing reliance on meat as the star of every dish.
The Protein Factor
However, it’s true that vegetarian meals typically don’t offer as much protein per serving as meat. That’s why, in our house, we often add a side of shredded meat like chicken or pork to boost the protein content. For example, pairing 200g of shredded chicken (which contains around 38g of protein) with an aubergine dhansak makes for a nutritionally balanced meal that satisfies both dietary and fitness goals.
Recipe Inspiration
If you’re new to vegetarian cooking or looking for inspiration, here are some fantastic recipes to try:
- Slow Cooker Vegetable Lasagne
Recipe here - Aubergine Dhansak
Recipe here - Sweet Potato and Coconut Curry
Recipe here
For those who love cookbooks, we’ve recently discovered Meat-Free Mowgli. It’s full of simple, budget-friendly recipes that pack a flavourful punch.
Make Vegetarian Meals Part of Your Routine
Whether you’re aiming to reduce your meat intake or simply want to try something new, vegetarian meals can be a great addition to your regular rotation. Depending on your personal goals, adding a small side of protein could help you meet your nutritional needs while still enjoying the many benefits of plant-based meals.
If you’d like advice on incorporating more vegetarian dishes into your diet while still hitting your fitness and nutrition goals, get in touch with Slade Gym Sevenoaks today.
YOUR BODY | YOUR GOALS | OUR EXPERTISE