11/06/2025
Did you know many plant-based foods are a fantastic source of protein?
According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, one ½ cup serving of cooked beans provides the same amount of protein as 1 ounce of cooked fish, chicken, beef, or pork (about 7 grams).
Additional benefits of choosing to incorporate plant-forward meals with plant proteins as the focus into your meal planning repertoire include:
✅ Higher fiber content: Including plant foods makes it easier to increase the fiber in your meals, making it easier to meet your daily fiber goals.
✅ Lower saturated fat: Replacing some of your meat with more plant foods is a great way to lower the saturated fat in a dish.
✅ Higher nutrient density: Incorporating a variety of plant foods in your diet is a great way to introduce more vitamins and minerals. The more colorful your plate, the more variety of nutrients!
✅ Lower Cost: Plant-forward meals tend to cost less, since meat is usually one of the most expensive items on a grocery list. This is especially true if you purchase whole food items (like dried or canned beans, lentils, or tofu) instead of commercial meat replacements.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends eating 1-3 cups of legumes and pulses (such as beans, lentils, and peas) each week. How will you serve up some beans this week? Try our newest recipe, Skillet Veggie Enchiladas: https://dinnertonight.tamu.edu/recipe/skillet-vegetable-enchiladas/
Sources: Eatright.org
