FOR THE LOVE OF PROTEIN: 14 IRRESISTIBLE OPTIONS (INCLUDING RECIPE IDEAS)

Today, on National Protein Day (27th Feb), we're all about celebrating the unsung hero of our diets: protein! For all you amazing moms-to-be navigating gestational diabetes, protein is about to become your secret weapon. Join us as we dive into some delicious recipes to keep you fuelled and feeling fabulous. Let's raise a fork to protein power!

#1 Salmon: The Omega-3 Powerhouse

Whether grilled, baked, or smoked, salmon is a top pick for those seeking a protein-packed delight. It's not only rich and satisfying but also packed with omega-3 fatty acids that contribute to heart health.

Grilled Salmon with Lemon and Herbs

Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs (such as dill or parsley).

Grill the salmon until cooked through, then squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving.

Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette.

Baked Salmon with Garlic and Asparagus

Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Season the salmon with minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

Arrange trimmed asparagus spears around the salmon on the baking sheet.

Bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice and a side of quinoa or cauliflower rice.

Salmon and Avocado Salad

Flake cooked salmon over a bed of mixed greens (such as spinach or arugula).

Add diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and thinly sliced red onion to the salad.

Drizzle with a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Optional: sprinkle with toasted nuts or seeds (such as almonds or pumpkin seeds) for added crunch and protein.

#2 Quinoa: The Complete Plant Protein

Versatile and delicious, quinoa can be a base for salads, bowls, or a side dish that complements various meals. Packed with all nine essential amino acids, it's a complete plant-based protein source.

Quinoa Salad with Grilled Chicken

Cook quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool.

Grill chicken breast seasoned with your favorite herbs and spices until cooked through.

In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa with diced vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions.

Toss with a light vinaigrette dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs.

Slice the grilled chicken and add it to the quinoa salad.

Quinoa and Vegetable Stir-Fry

Cook quinoa according to package instructions and set aside.

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil.

Stir-fry your favorite vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, snap peas, and bell peppers until tender-crisp.

Add cooked quinoa to the skillet and toss everything together.

Season with low-sodium soy sauce or tamari and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor.

Quinoa Breakfast Bowl

Cook quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool slightly.

In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa with unsweetened Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for sweetness.

Top with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for natural sweetness and added nutrients.

Optionally sprinkle with chopped nuts or seeds for extra crunch and protein.

#3 Greek Yogurt: Creamy Protein Bliss

A versatile option that can be enjoyed on its own, mixed with fruits, or used as a protein-rich ingredient in smoothies and recipes.

Greek Yogurt Parfait

Layer Greek yogurt with fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries) and a sprinkle of nuts or seeds (such as almonds, walnuts, or chia seeds) in a glass or bowl.

Add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.

Optional: layer with granola for added crunch, but be mindful of the portion size to keep it blood sugar-friendly.

Greek Yogurt Veggie Dip

In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt with finely chopped herbs (such as dill, parsley, or chives), minced garlic, lemon juice, and a dash of salt and pepper.

Serve the yogurt dip with an assortment of fresh vegetable sticks, such as carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and celery.

Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

In a bowl, mix cooked and shredded chicken breast with Greek yogurt, diced celery, chopped apples, and halved grapes.

Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice to taste.

Serve the chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens.

#4 Eggs: Nature's Protein Bombs

Whether boiled, scrambled, poached, or sunny-side-up, they offer a delicious protein fix.

Vegetable Omelette

Beat eggs with a splash of milk or water and season with salt and pepper.

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add diced vegetables like bell peppers, onions, spinach, and tomatoes.

Pour the beaten eggs over the vegetables and cook until the omelette is set and lightly golden on the bottom.

Fold the omelette in half and serve with a side of fresh salsa or avocado slices.

Egg and Spinach Breakfast Wrap

Scramble eggs with chopped spinach, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese.

Warm a whole grain or low-carb tortilla in a dry skillet and fill it with the scrambled egg mixture.

Roll up the tortilla and enjoy it as a satisfying breakfast or lunch option.

Baked Eggs in Avocado

Cut avocados in half and scoop out a bit of the flesh to create a well for the egg.

Crack an egg into each avocado half and season with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices.

Place the avocado halves on a baking sheet and bake in the oven until the eggs are set to your liking.

Serve the baked eggs in avocado with a sprinkle of cheese and a side of whole grain toast or salad.

#5 Chicken Breast: Lean and Mean Protein Machine

Grilled, baked, or sautéed, chicken breast is a blank canvas that absorbs flavors beautifully. It's a staple!

Grilled Chicken Salad

Marinate chicken breast in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like oregano and thyme.

Grill the chicken until cooked through and slice it thinly.

Toss mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, bell peppers, and any other desired vegetables.

Top the salad with the grilled chicken slices and drizzle with a light vinaigrette dressing.

Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables

Slice chicken breast into thin strips and stir-fry in a non-stick skillet with a bit of olive oil.

Add sliced vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and carrots to the skillet and cook until tender-crisp.

Season with low-sodium soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Serve the chicken stir-fry over cooked brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Baked Lemon Herb Chicken

Preheat the oven and place chicken breast in a baking dish.

Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley.

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.

Bake the chicken in the oven until cooked through and serve it with roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.

#6 Lentils: Plant-Based Protein Power

From soups to salads, lentils add a hearty protein punch to various dishes. Not only are they rich in protein but also provide essential nutrients like iron and fiber.

Lentil Salad

Cook lentils until tender, then allow them to cool.

Mix the lentils with diced vegetables like cucumber, tomatoes, and bell peppers.

Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for flavor.

Dress the salad with a vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of mustard.

Serve chilled as a refreshing and nutritious salad option.

Lentil Soup

Sauté onions, carrots, and celery in a pot until softened.

Add rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot.

Season with herbs like thyme, bay leaves, and a pinch of cumin.

Simmer until the lentils are cooked through and the flavors have melded together.

Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.

Lentil and Vegetable Stir-Fry

Cook lentils according to package instructions until tender.

In a separate pan, stir-fry a mix of colorful vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots.

Add cooked lentils to the stir-fried vegetables and toss together.

Season with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a dash of chili flakes for heat.

Serve over brown rice, quinoa or cauliflower rice for a satisfying and balanced meal.

#7 Cottage Cheese: Creamy Curds of Protein

Enjoy on its own, pair with berries, or incorporate into sweet or savory recipes for an extra protein boost.

Cottage Cheese and Berry Parfait

Layer low-fat cottage cheese with fresh mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries) in a glass.

Optionally sprinkle with a handful of chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition.

This parfait is a delicious and protein-rich breakfast or snack that's low in sugar and high in nutrients.

Cottage Cheese and Veggie Stuffed Bell Peppers

Cut bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes.

Mix low-fat cottage cheese with diced vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, onions, and mushrooms.

Stuff the bell pepper halves with the cottage cheese and veggie mixture.

Bake until peppers are tender and filling is heated through for a tasty and nutritious meal.

Cottage Cheese and Avocado Toast

Toast whole grain bread and spread with mashed avocado.

Top with a generous dollop of low-fat cottage cheese.

Sprinkle with a dash of black pepper or red pepper flakes for added flavor.

This savory toast makes for a satisfying breakfast, lunch, or snack that's high in protein and healthy fats.

#8 Tofu: The Chameleon of Protein

A fantastic meat substitute in vegetarian and vegan dishes, providing a solid dose of plant-based protein.

Tofu Stir-Fry

Cube firm tofu and stir-fry with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas.

Season with low-sodium soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sesame oil.

Serve over brown rice or quinoa for a satisfying meal.

Tofu Scramble

Crumble firm tofu and sauté with diced onions, bell peppers, and spinach in a skillet.

Season with turmeric, cumin, and nutritional yeast for a savory flavor.

Serve with whole grain toast or wrap in a whole wheat tortilla for a hearty breakfast or lunch option.

Tofu Veggie Skewers

Thread cubes of firm tofu onto skewers alternating with colorful vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and mushrooms.

Brush with a marinade made from olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs.

Grill or bake until tofu is golden and vegetables are tender. Serve as a nutritious and flavorful main dish.

#9 Almonds: Protein-Packed Nut Goodness

Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, almonds offer a satisfying and nutritious option for those seeking a protein-rich munch. Enjoy on its own, incorporate into salads, blend into an almond meal, or turn into almond milk - you name it!

Almond-Crusted Baked Chicken

Coat chicken breasts in a mixture of crushed almonds, whole wheat breadcrumbs, and your favorite herbs and spices.

Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake in the oven until the chicken is cooked through and the almond crust is golden and crispy.

Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a nutritious meal.

Almond and Berry Smoothie Bowl

Blend together frozen berries, a banana, Greek yogurt, and almond milk until smooth.

Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with sliced almonds, fresh berries, and a sprinkle of granola or chia seeds for added crunch.

Enjoy this refreshing and satisfying smoothie bowl for breakfast or as a snack.

Almond-Crusted Baked Fish

Coat fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia) in a mixture of finely chopped almonds, whole-grain breadcrumbs, and a dash of lemon zest.

Place the coated fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake in the oven until the fish is cooked through and the almond crust is crispy.

Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a quinoa salad for a light and flavorful meal.

#10 Lean Beef: Red Meat for Protein Enthusiasts

Grilled steaks or stir-fried beef strips offer a hearty protein fix, along with essential nutrients like iron and zinc. Choose lean cuts to keep the protein content high while minimizing saturated fats.

Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry

Slice lean beef (such as sirloin or flank steak) into thin strips and marinate in a mixture of low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger.

Stir-fry the marinated beef in a hot skillet with a variety of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas.

Serve the stir-fry over cooked brown rice or quinoa for a filling and nutritious meal.

Beef and Lentil Soup

Brown lean ground beef in a large pot with diced onions, garlic, and celery.

Add low-sodium beef broth, canned diced tomatoes, cooked lentils, and a variety of herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.

Simmer the soup until the flavors meld together and the vegetables are tender.

Serve the hearty beef and lentil soup with a side of whole grain bread or a leafy green salad.

Beef Lettuce Wraps

Cook lean ground beef with diced onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a skillet until browned and cooked through.

Season the beef mixture with low-sodium soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and a splash of rice vinegar.

Spoon the beef mixture into large lettuce leaves (such as iceberg or butter lettuce) and top with shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, and chopped green onions.

Wrap the lettuce leaves around the beef filling and enjoy!

#11 Chickpeas: Protein-Packed Legume Delight

Roast for a snack, blend into hummus, or toss into salads! Packed with protein and fiber, they add a delightful crunch and nutritional boost to a variety of dishes.

Chickpea and Vegetable Curry

Sauté diced onions, garlic, and ginger in a large pot until fragrant.

Add diced vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and cauliflower to the pot, along with curry powder, turmeric, and cumin.

Pour in canned diced tomatoes and cooked chickpeas (rinsed and drained).

Simmer the curry until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Serve the chickpea and vegetable curry over cooked quinoa or brown rice for a hearty and nutritious meal.

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

In a large bowl, combine cooked chickpeas with diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives.

Drizzle the salad with extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice, and sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs like parsley and mint.

Toss the ingredients together until evenly coated, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve the refreshing Mediterranean chickpea salad as a side dish or a light lunch option.

Roasted Chickpea Tacos

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cooked chickpeas with olive oil and your favorite taco seasoning.

Spread the seasoned chickpeas onto a baking sheet in a single layer and roast in the oven until crispy, about 20-25 minutes.

While the chickpeas are roasting, warm corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave.

Assemble the tacos by filling the warmed tortillas with the roasted chickpeas, sliced avocado, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream.

Serve the flavorful roasted chickpea tacos with lime wedges and enjoy!

#12 Peanut Butter: Creamy or Crunchy Protein Pleasure

Whether smeared on toast, blended into smoothies, or added to oatmeal, peanut butter provides a deliciously nutty flavor along with a substantial protein kick.

Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

Blend together a banana, a tablespoon of natural peanut butter, unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice), and a handful of spinach or kale (optional) until smooth.

Optionally, add a scoop of protein powder or a tablespoon of ground flaxseed for extra nutrition.

Pour the smoothie into a glass and enjoy it as a satisfying and nutritious breakfast or snack.

Peanut Butter and Apple Slices

Slice a crisp apple into wedges and spread natural peanut butter onto each slice.

Optionally, sprinkle the peanut butter-topped apple slices with cinnamon or a drizzle of honey for added flavor.

Enjoy the sweet and savory combination of peanut butter and apple slices as a quick and easy snack.

Peanut Butter Energy Balls

In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, natural peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), ground flaxseed, and a pinch of salt.

Mix until well combined, then roll the mixture into bite-sized balls using your hands.

Optionally, roll the energy balls in shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or cocoa powder for added texture and flavor.

Place the energy balls in the refrigerator to firm up for about 30 minutes before serving.

Enjoy these homemade peanut butter energy balls as a nutritious and convenient snack on the go.

#13 Turkey: Lean Poultry Protein

Whether sliced in sandwiches, grilled as cutlets, or incorporated into various dishes, turkey offers a lean and tasty source of protein.

Turkey and Vegetable Stir-Fry

Stir-fry diced turkey breast with vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas.

Season with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.

Serve over cooked quinoa or brown rice.

Turkey Lettuce Wraps

Brown ground turkey and season with chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder.

Spoon onto large lettuce leaves.

Top with tomatoes, avocado, and Greek yogurt or tahini sauce.

#14 Edamame: Protein-Rich Soybeans

Boiled or steamed, these little green gems are not just delicious but also pack a plant-based protein punch.

Edamame Salad

Combine cooked and shelled edamame with diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.

Toss with a light vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs.

Add crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley for extra flavor.

Edamame Hummus

Blend cooked edamame with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil until smooth.

Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cumin or paprika.

Serve with raw vegetable sticks or whole-grain crackers for dipping.

Edamame Stir-Fry

Sauté cooked edamame with mixed vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli in a wok or skillet.

Season with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for flavor.

Serve over cooked brown rice, quinoa or cauliflower rice for a balanced meal.

Protein isn't just a macronutrient; it's a game-changer for moms-to-be managing gestational diabetes. By incorporating protein-rich foods into your diet, you're not only supporting your health but also enjoying delicious meals that keep you energized and satisfied. Remember, protein isn't just delicious; it's essential for keeping blood sugars stable. So, whether you're enjoying a hearty protein-packed meal or savoring a tasty snack, here's to embracing the power of protein and nourishing your body with every bite.

Cheers to good health and happy eating!