Grilling peaches makes them extra juicy and sweet, providing a perfect counterpoint to grilled chicken and earthy French lentils in this warm, main course salad. Dark green French lentils hold their shape while cooking, which makes them ideal for salads. Find them in the bulk section of the supermarket.

 Active time: 15 minutes | Total time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Grilled Chicken, Lentil and Peach Salad

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (95g) French green lentils (lentils du puy)
• 3 cups (720g) water 
• 3/4 tsp salt, divided
• 2 1/2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp shallots, finely chopped
• 1 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey
• 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 4 (6 oz./170g) boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 large (175g)  peaches, halved and pitted
• 1/2 cup (12g) loosely packed mint leaves, torn
• 1/2 cup (12g) loosely packed basil leaves, torn

Directions

In a small saucepan, combine the lentils with 3 cups (720g) water and 1/2 tsp salt. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook until the lentils are just tender, about 25 minutes. Drain. 

While the lentils are cooking, preheat a grill over medium heat (350°–450°F or 177°–232°C).

 In a medium bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 tsp salt, oil, shallots, vinegar, mustard, honey, garlic, and pepper.

Transfer 4 tbsp of the dressing to another bowl. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes. Set the remaining dressing aside for serving.

 Place the chicken and peach halves (cut side down) on the grill. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes per side, or until it reaches 165°F (74°C). Grill the peaches for about 5 minutes, until lightly charred and softened.

Transfer the chicken and peaches to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice the chicken and cut the peaches into bite-size pieces.

Divide the warm lentils among 4 plates. Arrange the chicken and peaches over the top, then sprinkle with mint and basil. Drizzle each salad with 1 1/2 tbsp of the remaining dressing and serve warm.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 1/4 of the lentils, 1 chicken breast, 1/2 peach, 1/4 cup herbs, 1 1/2 tablespoons dressing

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 490; Total Fat: 15g; Saturated Fat: 3g; Monounsaturated Fat: 8g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g; Cholesterol: 145mg; Sodium: 617mg; Carbohydrate: 27g; Dietary Fiber: 8g; Sugar: 12g; Protein: 59g

Nutrition Bonus: Potassium: 640mg; Iron: 15%; Vitamin A: 13%; Calcium: 5%

Originally published July 2018; Updated May 2026

The post Grilled Chicken, Lentil and Peach Salad appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

A high protein for weight loss gets a lot of attention, and the evidence suggests there are a few good reasons why. Higher-protein diets do not ‘melt fat,’ but they do more than you think. However, it’s still not a magic fix. 

“Protein does not cause weight loss on its own, but it can play a useful role by helping with fullness and supporting lean mass during a calorie deficit,” Katherine Basbaum, RD MyFitnessPal dietitian explains. (2,4,5,7) 

Why Protein Matters for Weight Loss

Does protein help you lose weight? It can be helpful as part of a balanced weight-loss plan. Higher-protein eating patterns have been linked with better weight management outcomes in adults who are overweight or obese. (1)

1. It Helps You Feel Full Longer

   One way protein may support weight loss is by helping you feel fuller for longer. Some studies have found that people feel more satisfied after eating more protein. (4,8)

2. It May Help Reduce Overall Calorie Intake

   By improving fullness, protein may make it easier to eat fewer calories over the rest of the day. It has been found that people may eat fewer calories later after higher-protein meals, although results are not perfectly consistent across all studies. (2)

3. Does Protein Boost Metabolism?

   Protein has a higher thermic effect than carbohydrate or fat, which means the body uses more energy to digest and metabolize it. That effect is real, but modest, so it is better viewed as a helpful bonus than as a stand-alone weight-loss strategy. (2,7)

4. It Helps Preserve Lean Mass During Weight Loss

   When people lose weight, they usually lose some muscle along with body fat. Increased protein intake significantly helps prevent muscle-mass loss in adults who are overweight or obese and are trying to lose weight. (5)

5. It Helps You Build Better Meals

   Protein can also help you build more balanced meals instead of relying on snacks that may not keep you full for long. A good amount of protein can be found in beans, lentils, peas, eggs, seafood, soy foods, nuts, seeds, and lean meats and poultry. (9,10)

How Much Protein Should I Eat to Lose Weight?

A practical protein intake for weight loss is often higher than the adult minimum. The adult RDA is 0.8 g/kg/day, which is the amount set to meet the needs of nearly all healthy adults. Reviews focused on weight management often discuss somewhat higher intakes, around 1.2 to 1.6 g/kg/day, and sometimes roughly 25 to 30 g per meal to help with hunger and help you hold on to muscle. (2,6,5)

If you have chronic kidney disease or another condition that changes protein needs, do not use a generic target without consultation. Your protein goal may need to be adjusted with help from a doctor or dietitian. (11)

Best Protein Foods for Weight Loss

Good options include eggs, seafood, lean meats and poultry, soy foods, beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds. Protein is found in both plant and animal foods, and its label guidance suggests comparing foods by looking at the grams of protein per serving. (10)

How to Use MyFitnessPal to Support a Protein Goal

Try MyFitnessPal’s Protein Calculator, which uses body weight and physical activity to estimate a target. The calculator’s default macro setup is 20% of calories from protein, and users can customize protein, carb, and fat goals in the Goals section. 

Premium users can also view macros by meal, which makes it easier to see whether protein is being spread across breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, or if it’s limited to one meal. 

If you’re building a new protein habit, there’s a place to do it alongside others in the MyFitnessPal community.

Things to Keep in Mind

Protein can support weight loss, but it does not replace the fundamentals. Weight loss still comes down to eating in a way you can stick with, staying active, and building healthy habits. Protein works best when it helps you stick to that structure, not when it is treated like a shortcut. (7)

Also, keep in mind that more protein is not automatically better for everyone, especially if you have chronic kidney disease. (11)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Does protein help you lose weight?

A higher-protein eating pattern can support weight loss by helping with fullness and by helping preserve lean mass while you are in a calorie deficit. It works best as part of an overall reduced-calorie, balanced eating pattern, not as a stand-alone fix. (1,4,5,7) 

• How much protein should I eat to lose weight?

The adult RDA for protein is 0.8 g/kg/day. Reviews focused on weight management often discuss somewhat higher intakes, often around 1.2 to 1.6 g/kg/day. (6,2)

• Does protein boost metabolism?

Protein has a higher thermic effect of food than carbohydrate or fat, so your body uses more energy to digest and metabolize it. That effect is real, but modest, so it is better thought of as a small advantage rather than the main driver of weight loss. (2,7)

• What are the best protein foods for weight loss?

Beans, peas, lentils, eggs, seafood, soy foods, nuts, seeds, and lean meats and poultry are all good sources of protein. And if you are comparing packaged foods, checking the grams of protein per serving on the Nutrition Facts label can help. (10)

• Can eating too much protein be bad for you?

Protein can fit into a balanced eating pattern for most healthy adults. But if you have chronic kidney disease or another condition that affects protein needs, it is best to talk with a clinician or dietitian before making major changes to your intake. (7,11)

Bottom Line

Protein can be a helpful part of a weight-loss plan because it may help you feel fuller and support lean mass while you are eating in a calorie deficit. (2,4,5)

From there, you’re going to need to keep it practical: choose a realistic protein goal and use MyFitnessPal to check whether your intake is lining up with it.

Originally published October 11, 2016; Updated May 2026

The post High Protein Diet for Weight Loss: 5 Science-Backed Reasons It Helps appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

These slow cooker sliders give you all the savory, sweet and tangy flavors of a classic Cuban sandwich but with a dose of whole grains, some heart-healthy fats and almost 60% of your daily calcium needs (1).  Our recipe uses pork shoulder simmered in a sweet, citrus broth made from fresh orange and lime, and is served on a whole-grain slider bun with Swiss cheese and pickles.

Active time: 40 minutes | Total time: 7-8 hours (if using low-heat setting)

Slow Cooker Pork Sliders

Ingredients

• 1 ½ tbsp cumin
• 1 ½ tbsp dried oregano
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• 1 (3.5 lb) pork shoulder, trimmed of as much fat as possible
• 1 tbsp avocado or olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 medium (110g) white onion, thinly sliced
• 1 lime, juiced
• 2 medium oranges, juiced (about 1 cup juice)
• 1/2 cup (120g) water
• 16 whole-grain slider rolls
• ⅓ cup Dijon mustard
• 16 (448g) 1-oz slices of Swiss cheese
• 16 pickle slices

Directions

Prepare the rub by putting cumin, oregano and salt into a small bowl. Toss to combine.

Sprinkle rub over the pork shoulder, and use your fingers to massage the rub into the meat.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil to the skillet, and allow it to heat. Add the pork shoulder to the skillet and sear until it is brown all over, about 7–10 minutes.

Put the pork shoulder into the slow cooker, then add the garlic, onion, lime juice, orange juice and water. Cook pork shoulder on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until meat completely falls apart and temperature reaches 195–205°F.

Take the pork shoulder out of the slow cooker, and shred the meat with a pair of tongs or two forks. Add as much juice from the slow cooker as needed to your shredded pork to keep it moist and juicy.

Split the slider buns and toast them. Spread each bun half with ~½ tbsp mustard, ¼ cup of slow-cooked pork, one a slice of Swiss cheese and pickle. Serve and enjoy!

Serves: 8 |  Serving Size: 2 sliders 

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 719; Total Fat: 36g; Saturated Fat: 15g; Monounsaturated Fat: 12g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g; Cholesterol: 185mg; Sodium: 1263mg; Carbohydrate: 35g; Dietary Fiber: 5g; Sugar: 8g; Protein: 61g

Nutrition Bonus: Potassium: 946mg; Iron: 28%; Vitamin C: 37%; Calcium: 58%

Originally published October 7, 2015; Updated May 2026

The post Slow Cooker Pork Sliders appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

Omega-3-rich salmon gets a creamy miso topping with crunchy panko bread crumbs in this easy one-pan meal. Radishes and baby bok choy cook in the same amount of time and are a unique combo, just when you were getting tired of the usual sheet pan veggies!

This is a great option for a quick, low-maintenance dinner, and it’s packed with anti-inflammatory properties from the salmon (1).

 Active time: 10 minutes | Total time: 25 minutes

Sheet Pan Miso Salmon With Baby Bok Choy

Ingredients

• Cooking spray
• 4 (5-oz./142g) salmon fillets, skin-on
• 3 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp white miso paste
• 1 tsp lemon zest, finely grated
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1/2 cup (42g) whole-wheat panko crumbs
• 4 small baby bok choy, halved lengthwise (quartered if larger)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Directions

Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and coat generously with cooking spray. Using tweezers or needle-nose pliers, remove any pin bones from the salmon fillets. Arrange the fillets skin-side down in the center of the prepared baking sheet.

In a small bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, miso paste, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth. Spread the mixture evenly over the top of each fillet, then gently press the panko crumbs onto the surface so they adhere.

In a medium bowl, toss the bok choy with the oil until evenly coated. Scatter the vegetables around the salmon and season with the salt and pepper. Roast, rotating the pan once halfway through, until the salmon is cooked through to an internal temperature of 145°F, about 12–15 minutes.

To serve, slide a spatula gently between the flesh and skin of each fillet — the skin should release easily from the foil. Transfer to plates, discarding the skin, and serve immediately.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet, 2 bok choy halves

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 445; Total Fat: 31g; Saturated Fat: 6g; Monounsaturated Fat: 10g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 11g; Cholesterol: 82mg; Sodium: 569mg; Carbohydrate: 10g; Dietary Fiber: 2g; Sugar: 3g; Protein: 32g

Nutrition Bonus: Vitamin D: 156%; Calcium: 11%; Iron: 9%; Potassium: 908mg; Vitamin A: 94%; Vitamin C: 56%

The post Sheet Pan Miso Salmon With Baby Bok Choy appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

Go ahead and buy the big bag of mandarin oranges. You might eat most of them out of hand, but save a few to use in this citrus-kissed smoothie. A serving of protein powder makes sure you’ll be satisfied all morning long, and you’ll get immune-boosting vitamin C thanks to the mandarins (1).

Active time: 5 minutes | Total time: 5 minutes

Mandarin-Ginger Smoothie

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (123g) nonfat plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup (122g) unsweetened soy milk
• 2 small mandarins, peeled (save a segment for garnish)
• 1/2 large banana, frozen
• 1 cup (13g) fresh spinach
• 1 tsp minced fresh ginger
• 1/4 tsp turmeric
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 serving plain whey protein powder

Directions

Place all of the ingredients in a high-powered blender. Secure the lid and blend, starting on low speed and increasing to high, until completely smooth.

Pour into a glass, garnish with the reserved mandarin segment if desired, and serve immediately.

Serves: 1 | Serving Size: 1 smoothie

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 350; Total Fat: 4g; Saturated Fat: 1g; Monounsaturated Fat: 1g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g; Cholesterol: 33mg; Sodium: 189mg; Carbohydrate: 48g; Dietary Fiber: 6g; Sugar: 34g; Protein: 33g

Nutrition Bonus: Calcium: 46%; Iron: 12%; Potassium: 1093mg; Vitamin A: 193%; Vitamin C: 104%

Originally published January 2021; Updated May 2026

The post Mandarin-Ginger Smoothie appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

Sometimes I wish I were the kind of person who could just grab a bite to eat without feeling a little high-maintenance. A night out would definitely be simpler if I didn’t have to ask about gluten-free options or meatless swaps on the menu. But after years of trial, error, and paying close attention to how different foods make me feel, I’ve learned what helps my body feel its best. More often than not, that looks like meals built around low-carb, high-protein vegetarian recipes.

And while there are far more options now than there used to be, I still prefer cooking at home and finding recipes that support my nutritional goals while actually tasting good, too. That balance can be surprisingly tricky to strike. So if you’re looking for satisfying vegetarian meals that are rich in protein, lower in carbs, and full of flavor, you’re in the right place.

The Best Vegetarian Protein Sources

Before we roll into the low-carb high-protein vegetarian recipes I found, I wanted to share a cheat sheet with a few of my go-to vegetarian protein sources that might help you on your plant-based eating journey:

Chickpeas: almost 11 grams protein / 35 grams carbohydrates per cup (cooked) 

Paneer (an unaged Indian cheese made from curdled milk and acid): 21 grams protein / 3.5 grams carbohydrates per 3.5 ounce serving

Tofu: 8 grams protein / 3.5 gram carbohydrates per 2 ounce serving 

Black Beans: 19 grams protein / 40 grams carbohydrates per cup (cooked)

Lentils: almost 18 grams of protein / approximately 40 grams carbohydrates per cup (cooked)

Eggs: 6 grams protein / 0.6 grams carbohydrates per egg (cooked)

Tempeh (a fermented soybean product): 34 grams of protein / 13 grams carbohydrates per cup

Halloumi (a brined cheese that originated from Cyprus):  7 grams of protein / 0 grams carbohydrates per one-ounce serving

19 Low-Carb High-Protein Vegetarian Recipes

When I was asked to share my favorite low-carb, high-protein vegetarian recipes, I welcomed the excuse to dig through my personal archive. As a vegetarian, I’ve found that most recipes tend to check only two of the three boxes: they’re low-carb and plant-forward but light on protein, or they’re packed with vegetarian protein sources and also loaded with carbs. As I mentioned, it can be a challenge, albeit a delicious one.

With that in mind, I rounded up the recipes I come back to again and again. Each one is satisfying, flavor-forward, and checks the boxes that matter most: 1) high in protein, 2) low in carbs, and 3) completely vegetarian. From cottage cheese and Greek yogurt to tofu, eggs, and lentils, these are the kinds of ingredients that make vegetarian cooking feel both nourishing and realistic. Let’s get into it.

This post was last updated on April 11, 2026, to include new insights.

The post 19 Vegetarian Recipes That Are Surprisingly High-Protein appeared first on Camille Styles.

Sumac is a spice made of the dried, ground berries of the Rhus coriaria shrub and utilized in Middle Eastern dishes like kebabs and salads to add a bright, lemony flavor. Sumac also contains powerful antioxidants that may offer therapeutic benefits for heart disease, diabetes and cancer. (1). Look for it at major retailers in the spice or international aisle, or online where dried spices are sold. Try it in hummus, soups and dishes like this quick chicken and cauliflower sheet-pan supper

This is a great low-maintenance, meal-prep option. Make it at the beginning of the week and enjoy it all week long for lunch, taking note of how the protein and fiber keep you full for several hours.

Active time: 15 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes

Sheet Pan Chicken With Cauliflower & Olives

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds (680g) boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1 ½ -inch pieces
• 1 medium (590g) head cauliflower, trimmed into bite-size florets
• 2 cups (312g) cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 cup (70g) pitted green Castelvetrano olives (or any other large, mild green olive variety)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 ¾ tsp sumac, divided
• ½ tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup (123g) plain low-fat Greek yogurt
• 1 small garlic clove, finely chopped and smashed with the side of a knife

Directions

Preheat the oven to 500°F (260ºC). Place a baking sheet on the center rack of the oven as it preheats. (Preheating the pan promotes faster browning and charring.)

In a large bowl, toss the chicken, cauliflower, cherry tomatoes and olives with the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and 1 ½ tsp of sumac. Pour onto the hot baking sheet and carefully arrange in an even layer with a spatula (if desired, line the hot baking sheet with foil before adding the ingredients for easier cleanup.) Bake for 15 minutes, stirring once halfway through or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center (internal temperature of 165 degrees) and the cauliflower is tender and charred in places.

While the chicken is baking, make the sauce by combining the yogurt, garlic and remaining sumac in a small bowl. Serve the sheet-pan chicken and vegetables with the yogurt sauce on the side.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: ¼ recipe, about 1 ½ cups chicken and veggies, plus 2 tbsp yogurt sauce

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 448; Total Fat: 17g; Saturated Fat: 3g; Monounsaturated Fat: 7g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g; Cholesterol: 133mg; Sodium: 825mg; Carbohydrate: 13g; Dietary Fiber: 4g; Sugar: 6g; Protein: 59g

Nutrition Bonus: Potassium: 693mg; Iron: 14%; Vitamin A: 20%; Vitamin C: 24%; Calcium: 12%

The post Sheet Pan Chicken With Cauliflower & Olives appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

Low-carb, high-protein and a good source of veggies, this sheet pan supper is a riff on hasselback potatoes, but features chicken stuffed with heirloom tomatoes, mozzarella and quick homemade pesto. We roast broccoli florets on the same baking sheet—cauliflower florets are a great swap too.

Active time: 15 minutes | Total time: 45 minutes

Hasselback Chicken Caprese With Roasted Broccoli

Ingredients

• cooking spray
• 1 cup (18g) basil leaves, loosely packed
• 3 tbsp (45g) olive oil, divided
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 medium garlic cloves
• 1/2 tsp salt, divided
• 4 (6 oz/170g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 5 medium (350g) campari tomatoes, sliced
• 3 oz (85g) part-skim mozzarella, thinly sliced
• 3 cups (225g) broccoli florets
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and coat with cooking spray. In a blender, combine the basil, 2 tbsp of the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and 1/8 tsp of the salt; blend until smooth to make the pesto.

Make vertical cuts every 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) in the chicken breasts, being careful not to cut all the way through, to create pockets. Fill each pocket with a slice of tomato and mozzarella, then spoon the pesto into the pockets. Sprinkle the chicken with the remaining 1/4 tsp salt and the pepper, and place on the prepared baking sheet.

Toss the broccoli florets with the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, and remaining 1/8 tsp salt, and arrange on the baking sheet around the chicken. Bake until the chicken is cooked through and registers 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer, about 20 minutes. Serve the chicken with the fennel on the side.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 1 chicken breast, 3/4 cup broccoli

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 396; Total Fat: 20g; Saturated Fat: 5g; Monounsaturated Fat: 10g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g; Cholesterol: 137mg; Sodium: 533mg; Carbohydrates: 8g; Dietary Fiber: 2g; Sugar: 3g; Protein: 46g

Nutrition bonus:  Potassium: 942mg; Iron: 9%; Vitamin C: 112%; Calcium: 21%; Vitamin A: 36%

Originally published August 21, 2018; Updated May 2026

The post Hasselback Chicken Caprese With Roasted Broccoli appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

These spicy turkey burgers are anything but ordinary. Finely chopped portobello mushrooms are worked into the patties to add moisture and deep, savory flavor, while a bold harissa carrot slaw and creamy tahini sauce take every bite to the next level. Served on toasted whole-grain naan, this is a burger worth making on repeat — weeknight dinner or weekend cookout, it delivers every time.

Active time: 25 minutes | Total time: 1 hour

Spicy Turkey Burgers With Carrot Slaw

Ingredients

• 1 tsp olive oil
• 2 medium portobello mushrooms, dark underside scraped out and discarded, cap finely chopped
• 5 tsp hot water, divided
• 1 lb 93% lean ground turkey
• 1 large egg yolk
• 4 tsp ground flaxseeds
• 1¼ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp garlic powder, divided
• ½ tsp salt, divided
• ½ tsp black pepper, divided
• 2 tbsp lemon juice, divided
• 1½ tsp harissa
• 2 large carrots, grated
• 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
• 1½ tbsp tahini
• ½ tsp maple syrup
• Cooking spray
• 4 small whole-grain naan, lightly toasted
• 4 green lettuce leaves

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a medium nonstick pan over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and sauté, stirring frequently, until they begin to brown, about 4–5 minutes. Add a few tbsp water and simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, until the water evaporates, about 30 seconds. Transfer to a mixing bowl and let cool completely.

Add the ground turkey, egg yolk, flaxseeds, cumin, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper to the bowl. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. With lightly oiled hands, form the mixture into four 4 1/2-inch (11cm) patties about 3/4 inch thick, pressing a slight dimple into the center of each. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare the slaw. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 tbsp lemon juice and the harissa. Add the carrots, cilantro, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper and toss to combine. Set aside.

For the sauce, whisk together the tahini, remaining 1 tbsp lemon juice, maple syrup, and remaining 1/4 tsp garlic powder in a small bowl. Add 1–2 tsp hot water and whisk until smooth.

Preheat a grill or nonstick grill pan over medium heat and lightly coat with cooking spray. Cook the burgers for 5–6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Do not press down on the patties while cooking.

Place each burger on a toasted naan and top with a lettuce leaf, tahini sauce, and carrot slaw. Serve immediately.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 1 flatbread, 1 burger patty, 1/2 cup (50g) slaw, 1 tbsp sauce

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 417; Total Fat: 19g; Saturated Fat: 5g; Monounsaturated Fat: 3g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g; Cholesterol: 131mg; Sodium: 788mg; Carbohydrate: 32g; Dietary Fiber: 5g; Sugar: 6g; Protein: 30g

Nutrition Bonus: Potassium: 474mg; Iron: 23%; Vitamin A: 403%; Vitamin C: 10%; Calcium: 11%

Originally published June 2026

The post Spicy Turkey Burgers With Carrot Slaw appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

This weeknight interpretation of the classic Alsatian dish is a hearty meal of sausage, cabbage and potatoes — and it’s perfect for fall. This version takes the whole dish and makes it happen on a sheet pan for ease. Be sure to use a rimmed baking sheet to prevent the ingredients from sliding off.

Active time: 10 minutes | Total time: 45 minutes

Sheet Pan Sausage Choucroute Garnie

Ingredients

• 1 small head red cabbage, cut through the core into eight 1/2-inch thick wedges
• 1 lb (453g) baby red potatoes, halved if large
• 1 apple, such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, halved, cored and sliced 1/4-inch thick
• 1 small yellow onion (125g), halved, peeled and cut through the root into 1/4-inch thick wedges
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp cumin or caraway seeds
• 1/2 tsp yellow mustard seeds
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 4 precooked chicken-apple sausages
• 1/4 cup parsley, roughly chopped

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.

In a large bowl, gently toss the cabbage, potatoes, apple, onion, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, cumin, and mustard seeds. Season with salt and pepper. Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes.

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and use a spatula to flip the vegetables and apples. Arrange the chicken sausages on top and return to the oven. Roast for about 10-12 minutes more, or until the sausages reach an internal temperature of 165°F and are browned and the cabbage is crisp-tender. Let cool for 5 minutes.

Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 1 sausage and 1 1/2 cups of vegetables

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 397; Total Fat: 19g; Saturated Fat: 5g; Monounsaturated Fat: 5g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g; Cholesterol: 80mg; Sodium: 878mg; Carbohydrate: 44g; Dietary Fiber: 8g; Sugar: 15g; Protein: 18g

Nutrition Bonus: Calcium: 9%; Potassium: 947mg; Vitamin A: 8%; Vitamin C: 93%, Iron: 18%

Originally published: October 8, 2019; Updated May 2026

The post Sheet Pan Sausage and Cabbage appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

These mini meatloaves prove that comfort food and nutritious eating can go hand in hand. Swapping traditional breadcrumbs for almond flour keeps the recipe low-carb and gluten-free, while sautéed onion, bell pepper, and grated zucchini add moisture, flavor, and a boost of vegetables to every bite. A topping of marinara sauce and melted mozzarella makes these as satisfying as they are nourishing. Pair with whipped cauliflower mash to round out a cozy, weeknight-friendly dinner.

Active time: 15 minutes | Total time: 45 minutes

Mini Meatloaves

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped or grated
• 1 medium red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 lb 95% lean grass-fed ground beef
• 1 small zucchini, grated and patted dry with a paper towel
• 1/2 cup (45g) almond flour
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup (237ml) low-sodium jarred marinara sauce, divided
• 1/2 cup (28g) grated part-skim mozzarella cheese

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Heat the olive oil in a small saute pan over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 5 minutes. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and let cool for 10 minutes.

Add the ground beef, zucchini, almond flour, egg, balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Stir with a wooden spoon or clean hands until well blended. Divide the mixture into 4 portions. Form each portion into a small meatloaf about 4 1/2 inches (11cm) long on the prepared baking sheet. Press down the length of each meatloaf with the side of your hand to create a 1/2-inch deep divot in the center so it cooks evenly and catches the sauce and cheese. Spread the top of each meatloaf with 1/4 cup (59ml) marinara sauce and sprinkle with the mozzarella cheese.

Bake for 30 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of a meatloaf registers 160°F.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 1 mini meatloaf

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 390; Total Fat: 23g; Saturated Fat: 5g; Monounsaturated Fat: 6g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g; Cholesterol: 131mg; Sodium: 544mg; Carbohydrate: 13g; Dietary Fiber: 4g; Sugar: 6g; Protein: 34g

Nutrition Bonus: Vitamin D: 5%; Calcium: 19%; Iron: 24%; Potassium: 910mg; Vitamin A: 9%; Vitamin C: 89%

Originally published February 2021; Updated May 2026

The post Mini Meatloaves appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

Costco can be one of the most practical places to stock your kitchen, especially if you’re trying to prioritize protein.

From seafood and dairy to plant-based staples, there are plenty of high protein foods at Costco that can support balanced meals throughout the week.

We asked MyFitnessPal registered dietitians to share the protein picks they genuinely buy and how they turn those finds into practical, everyday meals.

Why Protein Matters (and How Much Protein You Actually Need)

Protein isn’t just for gym-goers.

Emily Sullivan, RD, MyFitnessPal registered dietitian, explains: “Protein is important for so many different functions in the body. Not only does it help to build and repair muscle, it plays a key role in supporting the immune system, providing energy, regulating fluid levels and making up hormones (1).”

Protein needs vary by person. Brookell White, MS, RD, MyFitnessPal registered dietitian, notes: “A sedentary adult should get about 1.2g/kg. But if you want to lose weight while maintaining muscle, your needs go up, and they increase even further with strength training or muscle-building objectives (2).”

So, the goal isn’t to maximize protein at every meal. It’s to meet your needs consistently.

Best Protein at Costco: Refrigerated Staples Dietitians Buy

Kirkland Signature Organic Greek Yogurt

Sullivan keeps this plain Greek yogurt stocked at home.

“It has 18 grams of protein per serving and no added sugar. I choose plain because it allows me to control how much added sugar I include, if any (3). I can use it for a morning yogurt parfait, mix it into marinades for proteins, or incorporate it into baked goods to boost protein and add moisture.”

For her, it’s less about a single use and more about flexibility. Greek yogurt can anchor breakfast, enhance savory dishes, or quietly elevate recipes by adding creaminess and protein without excess sweetness. 

When purchased in bulk, it becomes one of the most adaptable protein staples you can keep on hand.

Kirkland Signature Sous Vide Egg White Bites 

Katherine Basbaum, RD, MyFitnessPal registered dietitian recommends these for busy mornings.

“Though it doesn’t take much time to make egg bites from scratch, these are a quick and healthy option when you’re short on time.”

A couple minutes in the microwave delivers 11g worth of protein boost. Add fruit or whole grain toast, and breakfast is handled (4).

Seafood & Lean Protein Options

Kirkland Signature Raw Tail-On Shrimp 

Joanna Gregg, RD, MyFitnessPal registered dietitian, highlights this freezer staple: “These shrimp cook up in minutes, and just 7 shrimp adds 22 grams of protein (5).”

Shrimp works well in salads, stir fries, tacos, or pasta, making them an easy protein add-on.

Kirkland Signature Albacore Solid White Tuna in Water 

Basbaum keeps canned tuna on hand for simple meals. “A can has 42 grams of protein and is one of the healthiest high-protein convenience foods you can find (6).”

Tossed into a tuna salad, layered into a melt, or folded into a grain bowl, it’s one of the easiest and most versatile ways to add flavor and protein to a meal. 

Kirkland Signature Organic Chicken Bone Broth

Brookell White, MS, RD, MyFitnessPal registered dietitian calls this her all-time favorite protein pick at Costco.

Instead of just using it for soups, she uses it as the cooking liquid for pasta.

“By cooking pasta one-pot style, the protein-rich bone broth gets soaked up into the pasta. You’re then left with a velvety textured sauce and extra protein in each bite,” says White.

Her formula: about 5 cups of bone broth for 12 ounces of pasta, adding more as needed.

She also uses it in soups, stews, sauces, mashed potatoes, and grains, increasing protein content by 9g per serving without adding another main protein source (7).

Costco Plant-Based Protein Our Dietitians Recommend

Costco also offers strong plant-based protein choices.

Kirkland Signature Organic Hummus 

Melissa Jaeger, RD, LD, MyFitnessPal Head of Nutrition loves these for their convenience and great taste.

“Who doesn’t love a little dip with their veggies? These pre-portioned, single-serve hummus cups are perfect for packing in lunches, enjoying on road trips, or pulling out of the fridge for a quick and easy snack,” says Jaeger. 

Each 2.5-ounce cup provides 4 grams of plant-based protein, 3 grams of fiber, and healthy fats. It’s a combination that gives this pre-portioned snack staying power (8).

She pairs them with sliced vegetables or whole grain crackers to build a balanced snack that includes protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates.

The portion-controlled packaging also makes it easier to grab and go without overthinking serving sizes, which is especially helpful when buying in bulk.

Kirkland Signature Organic Quinoa

Jaeger also keeps quinoa stocked because it’s practical, versatile, and “packs a nutritional punch.”

Per 1/4 cup dry, it provides 6 grams of plant-based protein, 3 grams of fiber, and about 10% of the daily value for iron, making it a more nutrient-dense swap for refined grains (9).

In her kitchen, quinoa often replaces rice in grain bowls, layers easily into mason-jar salads, and even gets scrambled with eggs and vegetables for a more filling breakfast.

It’s a shelf-stable staple that can flex across multiple meals, which makes it especially useful when shopping in bulk.

Jaeger also appreciates that this version is pre-washed, so there’s no need to rinse away quinoa’s natural bitter outer coating before cooking—one less step on a busy night.

Kirkland Signature Organic Hemp Hearts

White calls hemp hearts one of the easiest ways to boost protein without changing your meals.

“They add 10 grams of protein for every 3 tablespoons (10).”

Instead of building an entirely new recipe, she recommends sprinkling them onto foods you’re already eating, such as yogurt, oatmeal, salads, or toast, or mixing them into smoothies, baked goods, energy bites, or homemade bars.

Hemp hearts also provide about 12 grams of polyunsaturated fats per serving, adding both texture and nutrition (10).

Another advantage? They’re extremely shelf-stable. Stored properly, they can last up to a year in the fridge or freezer and about three months in the pantry (11), making them a smart bulk buy at Costco. 

Kirkland Signature Organic Peanut Butter 

Sullivan keeps this stocked year-round.

“When choosing peanut butter, I look for an ingredient list that only has peanuts and salt, and this one delivers.”

With 8 grams of protein per serving, it’s a simple way to add protein to snacks or meals (12).

Kirkland Signature Snacking Nuts Variety Pack

For high protein snacks Costco shoppers can keep on hand, Gregg recommends these variety packs for portability.

“Easy to keep in your car, purse, bookbag, or briefcase for on-the-go snacking.”

These are also simple add-ons to salads, yogurt, or oatmeal. Each nut packs a good amount of protein per package (45 grams): (13)

• Cashews: 8g 
• Peanuts: 12g
• Almonds: 9g

On a side note:

Basbaum also mentions that for shoppers following a vegetarian or vegan diet, options like beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, quinoa, hemp hearts, and tofu make meeting protein needs manageable. 

For vegetarians specifically, dairy and eggs offer additional flexibility and can help round out protein intake.

How to Build Balanced Protein Meals

Jaeger emphasizes “Protein is important, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. The real magic happens when you build meals and snacks with balance in mind.”

Pair protein with:

• Whole grains
  
• Vegetables
  
• Fruits
  
• Healthy fats
  

Basbaum adds “Protein-fortified food and drinks are all the rage, but it’s best not to rely on them too much.”

Whole food protein sources, like yogurt, beans, eggs, fish, chicken, nuts, and seeds, provide nutrients beyond protein alone.

How MyFitnessPal Helps

Gregg recommends using MyFitnessPal to monitor your protein intake and see how it contributes to your daily goals.

The My Weekly Report feature provides a snapshot of your intake trends so you can adjust as needed.

More protein isn’t automatically better. Hitting the right amount for your body is what actually makes a difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How much protein should I eat daily?
  A sedentary adult generally needs about 1.2 g/kg of body weight per day, though needs increase with activity level and muscle-building goals (2).
• Is plant protein as effective as animal protein?
  Plant-based protein supplements can support muscle gains comparable to animal protein, as long as your overall protein intake is adequate (14).
• Can I shop for protein at Costco without buying specialty items?
  Yes. Many everyday staples there, like yogurt, eggs, beans, seafood and nuts, are strong protein sources.

Bottom Line

Costco can make protein shopping feel effortless—when you stick with versatile, food staples you’ll actually use. Mix and match animal and plant options, and think in meals. 

The most important thing is to choose products that fit your routine and budget.

And if you want a clearer picture of how it’s all adding up, MyFitnessPal can help you track your intake and adjust based on your goals.

The post Top 10 Dietitian-Reviewed High Protein Costco Foods Worth Buying appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.