10 High Protein Lunches for Energy and Weight Loss

Why a High-Protein Diet Can Be Beneficial

Which diet is the best? That’s a question that pops up regularly with our wellness retreat guests and our health coaching clients. The truth is that there isn’t one diet that works for everyone. That being said, let’s dive into how a high protein diet can be beneficial for weight loss and over all health as a consideration for your next healthy eating program. A high-protein diet can play a crucial role in maintaining muscle mass, improving metabolism, and supporting weight loss. Protein helps keep you full longer, reducing cravings and preventing overeating. It also plays a vital role in muscle repair, immune function, and overall health. Whether you're looking to lose weight, maintain energy throughout the day, or simply eat a more balanced diet, prioritizing protein is a smart move.


What to Know About a High-Protein Diet

Before diving into the recipes, it's important to understand some key principles of a high-protein diet:

  • Choose Whole Foods Over Processed: Stick with lean meats, eggs, legumes, nuts, and dairy rather than highly processed protein bars or powders whenever possible. Whole foods provide additional nutrients and fiber that support digestion and overall well-being.

  • Get an Array of Colors: A balanced meal isn’t just about protein—include a variety of colorful vegetables to ensure you're getting antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

  • Healthy Fats Are Your Friend: Pairing protein with healthy fats like avocado, olive oil, or nuts can enhance satiety and provide essential fatty acids for brain and heart health.

  • Common Misconceptions: Many believe that eating a high-protein diet means only consuming meat. However, plant-based proteins like quinoa, lentils, tofu, and chickpeas are excellent alternatives that provide fiber and essential amino acids.

  • Helpful Tips:

    • Prep your protein in advance for easy meal assembly.

    • Keep meals balanced by including a mix of protein, healthy fats, and fiber.

    • Stay hydrated—protein metabolism requires adequate water intake.


10 Easy-to-Assemble, High-Protein Lunches

These meals ideas are designed to be simple, easy to transport, and balanced for high protein with lower carbohydrates.

1. Greek Chicken Power Bowl

  • 4-6 oz grilled chicken breast

  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1/4 cup cucumber, diced

  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced

  • 1 tbsp crumbled feta cheese

  • 1 tbsp olive oil & lemon juice dressing

  • Optional: Serve over 1/2 cup cauliflower rice or mixed greens

2. Turkey Avocado Roll-Ups

  • 4 slices nitrate-free turkey breast

  • 1/2 avocado, sliced

  • 1 tbsp hummus

  • 1/4 cup shredded carrots

  • 1 handful baby spinach

  • Wrap all ingredients in turkey slices and serve with a side of raw veggies

3. Tuna and Egg Salad Lettuce Wraps

  • 1 can tuna (packed in water), drained

  • 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped

  • 1 tbsp Greek yogurt

  • 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard

  • 1 tbsp chopped celery

  • Romaine or butter lettuce leaves for wrapping

4. Quinoa and Chickpea Protein Bowl

  • 1/2 cup cooked quinoa

  • 1/2 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed

  • 1/4 cup diced bell pepper

  • 1 tbsp tahini dressing

  • 1 tbsp sunflower seeds

  • 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)

5. Salmon and Avocado Salad

  • 4 oz cooked salmon (grilled or canned)

  • 1/2 avocado, diced

  • 1 cup mixed greens

  • 1/4 cup shredded purple cabbage

  • 1 tbsp pumpkin seeds

  • 1 tbsp olive oil & balsamic vinegar dressing


 
 


6. Cottage Cheese and Veggie Bowl

  • 1 cup cottage cheese

  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1/4 cup cucumber, diced

  • 1 tbsp sunflower seeds

  • Drizzle of olive oil and cracked black pepper

7. Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry

  • 4-6 oz grilled chicken breast

  • 1 cup steamed or sautéed broccoli

  • 1 tbsp coconut aminos or low-sodium soy sauce

  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds

  • Serve over cauliflower rice

8. Hard-Boiled Egg and Avocado Plate

  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced

  • 1/2 avocado, mashed or sliced

  • 1/4 cup sliced cucumbers

  • 1 tbsp olive oil and lemon drizzle

  • Sprinkle of sea salt and black pepper

9. Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles

  • 4-6 oz cooked shrimp

  • 1 cup spiralized zucchini

  • 1 tbsp pesto sauce

  • 1 tbsp pine nuts

  • 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

10. Lean Beef and Roasted Veggie Bowl

  • 4-6 oz lean ground beef or steak strips

  • 1/2 cup roasted Brussels sprouts

  • 1/4 cup diced sweet potato

  • 1 tbsp olive oil & balsamic glaze

These protein-packed lunches are simple to make, delicious, and easy to bring on the go. Incorporating high-protein meals into your day can help support your health, energy levels, and weight loss goals without sacrificing taste or convenience. Give these meals a try and see how they help you stay full, focused, and fueled throughout the day!

START YOUR HIGH PROTEIN JOURNEY TODAY AND REACH YOUR HEALTH & WELLNESS GOALS

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  • 50 high protein one pot, one pan meal guide

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  • Wellness Meal Plans to support your overall well-being

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