For those of you, like myself, aiming to boost your protein intake, integrating it into breakfast and snacking is a good start. However, it’s during dinner that I crave a hearty dose of this nutrient, and having a handful of go-to recipes is a lifesaver. As the food director at REAL SIMPLE, I get to sample a plethora of new dishes, and there are always a few that I revisit time and again. Here are some of my go-to protein-rich favorites.
Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless
Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Julian Hensarling, Prop Stylist: Priscilla Montiel
Who would’ve thought that a delicious, comforting meal could be ready in just 30 minutes? This dish, with its 38 grams of protein, is a weeknight wonder and a hit at casual dinner parties. The strip steak cooks up in a flash, complemented by a medley of nutritious mushrooms.
You don’t have to rely on meat, poultry, or fish to get your protein fix. Soy-based products, such as tofu, are a great alternative (and they’re also budget-friendly). This dish offers 23 grams of protein, and the tofu is far from bland. It’s first pan-fried and then briefly simmered in a tantalizing harissa-honey sauce. If that’s not enough to make you want to try it, consider this: the entire meal can be on the table in just 20 minutes.
This one-pan pasta dish is a feast for the senses and the body, with 48 grams of protein. It’s a breeze to prepare in one skillet, making cleanup just as easy as the enjoyment of the meal.
With 43 grams of protein, this light meal comes together quickly with the help of canned or jarred salmon. Simply open the cans, mix with seasonings, pan-fry, and serve over a refreshing arugula salad. If you prefer, you can even cook the salmon patties in the air fryer.
