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How to Start a Plant-Based Diet: A 7-Day Meal Plan, Shopping List, & Easy Vegan Recipes
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Switching to a plant-based diet can feel overwhelming—Where do I get protein? How do I meal prep? Is it expensive? Spoiler: It’s easier (and cheaper!) than you think. Whether you’re going vegan for health, ethics, or energy, this guide covers easy vegan meal prep, plant-based protein sources, and smoothie recipes for energy to fuel your journey. Grab your grocery list—let’s dive in!
Section 1: Why Go Plant-Based? (And Where to Get Protein!)
Science-Backed Benefits:
- Boosts energy and reduces inflammation.
- Lowers risk of heart disease and diabetes.
- Supports weight management with fiber-rich meals.
Top Plant-Based Protein Sources:
- Lentils: 18g protein per cup (add to soups, salads).
- Tofu/Tempeh: 10-20g per serving (marinate for stir-fries).
- Chickpeas: 15g per cup (roast for snacks, blend into hummus).
- Orgain Protein Powder: 21g protein per scoop (perfect for smoothies).
- Orgain Organic Plant Protein (vanilla flavor).
Pro Tip: Pair grains + legumes (e.g., rice + beans) for complete amino acids.
Section 2: 7-Day Plant-Based Meal Plan (Beginner-Friendly!)
Day 1
- Breakfast: Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie (Orgain protein powder, almond milk, spinach).
- Lunch: Lentil & quinoa salad with lemon-tahini dressing.
- Snack: Apple slices with almond butter.
- Dinner: Chickpea curry with coconut milk + brown rice.
THE COMPLETE PLANT BASED RECIPE COOKBOOK
Day 2
- Breakfast: Overnight oats with berries and chia seeds.
- Lunch: Veggie wrap with hummus and sprouts.
- Snack: Roasted edamame.
- Dinner: Stuffed bell peppers with black beans and rice.
Section 3: Easy Vegan Meal Prep Tips
- Batch-Cook Staples: Cook 2 cups quinoa, roast 3 trays of veggies, and prep 1-pot lentils on Sundays.
- Use Freezer-Friendly Recipes: Soups, veggie burgers, and smoothie packs save time.
- Invest in Containers: Glass Meal Prep Containers
- Try Meal-Planning Apps:
- Paprika Recipe Manager: Organize recipes and grocery lists.
- Mealime: Customizable plant-based meal plans.
Section 4: 3 Energy-Boosting Smoothie Recipes
1. Green Protein Powerhouse
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 scoop Orgain Vanilla Protein
- 1 tbsp almond butter
- 1 cup oat milk
- Blend & enjoy!
2. Berry Antioxidant Blast
- ½ cup frozen mixed berries
- ½ cup silken tofu (for protein!)
- 1 tbsp flaxseed
- 1 cup almond milk
3. Chocolate Peanut Butter Energy
- 1 scoop Orgain Chocolate Protein
- 1 tbsp PB2
- ½ cup frozen cauliflower (trust us!)
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
Pro Tip: Prep smoothie packs in freezer bags for grab-and-go mornings!
THE COMPLETE PLANT BASED RECIPE COOKBOOK
Shopping List
- Pantry: Quinoa, lentils, chickpeas, chia seeds, almond butter.
- Produce: Spinach, bananas, berries, bell peppers, sweet potatoes.
- Affiliate Picks:
- PlantYou (fun, easy vegan recipes).
- Instant Pot (speeds up cooking beans/grains).
FAQ Section
Q: Can I get enough protein on a plant-based diet?
A: Absolutely! Focus on lentils, tofu, tempeh, and protein powders like Orgain.
Q: How do I avoid getting bored with vegan meals?
A: Rotate cuisines—try Mexican bowls, Asian stir-fries, and Mediterranean salads.
Q: Is vegan meal prep expensive?
A: Nope! Staples like beans, rice, and frozen veggies are budget-friendly.
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