Trying to eat healthier and lose weight can be challenging, especially when it comes to finding time to cook at home. To help you out, we've compiled a list of 20+ high-protein lunch recipes that are both delicious and easy to prepare. Adding protein to your meals is especially important for weight loss, as it helps you feel full longer and can even increase muscle mass to boost your metabolism. With these tasty lunch options, you'll be one step closer to reaching your weight loss goals.
1) Air Fryer Egg White Frittata
This protein-packed frittata recipe is a delicious and healthy option for lunch, especially if you're looking for a brunch-style meal. Packed with spinach, white onion, and tomato, this dish is not only full of fresh veggies but also egg whites, which are an excellent source of protein. The best part? You can enjoy the leftovers for another meal, making it a convenient and satisfying option.
2) Whole30 Chicken Salad with Creamy Dressing
Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which helps strengthen muscles and bones by providing the necessary amino acids. According to WebMD, as you age, it becomes more critical to consume the right amount of amino acids to sculpt muscle tissue. The more muscle mass you have, the more fat you will burn. This protein-packed chicken salad with a refreshing lemon tahini dressing, chopped celery, and dried cranberries makes for a delicious and healthy lunch.
3) Simple Whole30 Beef Burrito Bowls
Try these Whole30 beef burrito bowls as a delicious and healthy alternative to the classic burrito bowl. Made with beef, cauliflower, peppers, tomatoes, avocado, and tasty seasonings, this dish is packed with protein and free from dairy and grains.
4) A Healthy Shrimp & Spinach Salad With Warm Bacon
Upgrade your lunch game with this flavorful shrimp and spinach salad topped with warm bacon. While spinach is often considered a boring and tasteless option, this recipe is sure to change your mind. In addition, shrimp, the star of this dish, is a great source of protein, as noted by Medical News Today.
5) Seared Ahi Tuna in a Ginger-Scallion Sauce
This recipe featuring ahi tuna is not only delicious but also packed with protein. The dish is complemented by shiitake mushrooms, baby bok choy, and flavorful seasonings. It is topped with a ginger-scallion sauce that makes it one of the best high-protein lunches for weight loss.
6) Versatile Shrimp & Mango Summer Roll
This shrimp and mango summer roll is a perfect option for a light and refreshing lunch. Packed with flavor from the mango, red bell pepper, and cilantro, this dish is versatile and filling without being heavy. It's an excellent choice for seafood lovers looking for a healthy lunch option.
7) Easy Broccoli-Cheese Eggs in a Mug
This mug recipe featuring eggs is perfect for any time of day, not just breakfast. Plus, its convenient portion size makes it easy to grab on-the-go.
8) Crisp Cornmeal Catfish with Corn Salsa
Looking for a tasty and protein-packed lunch option? Look no further than this catfish recipe. Catfish is a great source of protein, and when paired with cornmeal, you have a winning combination. Top it off with a delicious and refreshing corn, avocado, and black bean salsa for a lunch that is both satisfying and nutritious.
9) Healthy Tuna Veggie Melts
This healthy tuna veggie melt recipe is packed with protein, as tuna is a great source of this nutrient. With reduced-fat cheddar cheese, sweet red peppers, onion, celery, and fresh dill weed, this recipe is full of flavor and nutrition. Plus, you have the option to enjoy it on a whole wheat bagel thin or reduced-calorie wheat hamburger bun. It's an excellent lunch option to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
10) Quick & Easy Curried Egg Salad
Revamp your egg salad game with this delicious and easy curried egg salad recipe. The addition of curry powder and ground cumin elevates the flavor to a whole new level. Packed with protein, this lunch option is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, tasty and filling meal.