9. Warm Kale-Quinoa Salad
Protein Punch: 31 grams
Ingredients: Kale, shredded chicken, apple, quinoa, sweet potato, walnuts, Dijon vinaigrette.
If you didn’t think you could pack over 30 grams of protein into one salad, think again. This Kale-Quinoa salad is full of protein-rich ingredients like chicken, quinoa, and sweet potatoes, so eating a bowl of this will help keep you full for the remainder of your work day.
10. Quinoa Bowl
Protein Punch: 40 grams
Ingredients: Quinoa, shredded chicken, black beans.
Quinoa bowls are similar to farro bowls in that they use a healthy whole grain as their base, and they allow you to add any ingredients that you like. According to Trista Best, MPH, RD, LD, at Balance One Supplements, a quinoa bowl is the way to go for a high-protein lunch.
“Quinoa is a complete protein source, containing all nine essential amino acids that the body needs, and it provides about eight grams of protein per cooked cup, making it an excellent plant-based protein option,” says Best. “When combined with other protein-rich ingredients like beans, tofu, or lean meats, quinoa bowls become a wholesome meal that support muscle repair, satiety, and overall nutritional balance.”