Jessica Barnes, PhD, RDN, LDHello Villagers. These 23 meatless protein foods can offer quality protein along with a multitude of additional nutrients. Plant based proteins are loaded fiber and vitamins that are great for your heart and gut health. Dairy foods contain calcium, a mineral important for bone development in children and bone maintenance in adults. They can also be easier on your wallet compared to meat!
Of these meatless protein foods, only the soy, dairy and egg products are considered complete proteins. Complete protein foods are ones that contain all nine essential amino acids that we need to consume.
Essential amino acids are those that are required by our bodies to function properly, but cannot be made by the body and therefore we must get them from food.
Plant based proteins should be paired with a grain to create a complete protein. They don’t have to be eaten at the meal time to reap the benefits of a complete protein, aim for consuming them the same day.
Need a few recipe ideas for a meatless meal? Try these Village Table Recipes:
Pair with rice for a complete protein! 
Omit the ham on these mini quiche for a meatless meal!
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