Simple High Protein Meals for a 1200 Calorie Day

why make this recipe

This Simple High Protein Meal is perfect for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet while keeping calorie intake low. With a focus on high protein, it helps you stay full longer and supports muscle health. This meal allows you to enjoy delicious flavors without worrying about excess calories.

how to make Simple High Protein Meal

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
• 1/2 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced bell peppers and corn. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the peppers are soft.
3. Stir in the quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything is heated through.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

how to serve Simple High Protein Meal

Serve this meal warm. You can enjoy it as is or add a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor. It works well as a main dish or a side.

how to store Simple High Protein Meal

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave until warm or warm on the stove.

tips to make Simple High Protein Meal

• Use cooked quinoa for quicker prep; it saves time!
• Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to increase nutrition.
• For a spicier version, add jalapeños or hot sauce.

variation

You can swap black beans for chickpeas or kidney beans. Additionally, add diced avocado for creaminess or top with Greek yogurt for extra protein.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: Yes! Frozen vegetables work great in this recipe and save prep time.

Q: Is this meal gluten-free?
A: Yes, this meal is gluten-free as long as you ensure that the quinoa and other ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

Q: Can I make this meal ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This meal can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for easy lunches or dinners.

Simple High Protein Meal

A nutritious and delicious high protein meal that supports muscle health and helps maintain a balanced diet while keeping calories low.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Gluten-Free, Healthy

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked quinoa Use pre-cooked quinoa for quicker prep.
• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained Can be replaced with chickpeas or kidney beans.
• 1 cup diced bell peppers Any color of bell pepper can be used.
• 1/2 cup corn Can use fresh or frozen corn.
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• to taste Salt and pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing the vegetables.
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional) Adds a fresh flavor.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced bell peppers and corn. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the peppers are soft.
3. Stir in the quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything is heated through.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 14gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 300mgFiber: 10gSugar: 4g

Notes

Serve warm with a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!