Are you on the hunt for a delicious, protein-packed vegan meal prep idea that brings a burst of Mexican flavors to your plate? Look no further! In this article, we’re diving into the world of “Vegan High Protein Meal Prep” with a twist of Mexican inspiration. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring the plant-based lifestyle, this article has you covered. Let’s get started with the basics. You can also view my full collection of plant based meal prep recipes here.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Before we embark on our culinary journey, let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that make this meal prep a wholesome delight. You’ll need:
Couscous (For gluten-free option see notes below):
- 1 cup whole wheat couscous (uncooked)
- 2 tbsp taco spice blend
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can whole kernel corn
Vegan Beef:
- 1 ¼ cups TVP
- 1 ¾ cups veg broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning
- 4 cups baby spinach, chopped
Toppings:
- 1.5 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup salsa
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream (vegan)
- 2 ripe avocados
- Hot sauce (optional)
- 1 lime cut into wedges
Substitutions:
For those with gluten sensitivities or following a gluten-free diet, you can replace couscous with quinoa. Here’s how to do it: Cook ⅔ cup dried quinoa with 1 ⅓ cups of water or low-sodium vegetable broth as a couscous replacement.
Helpful Tools
To make this meal prep a breeze, you’ll want to have a few helpful tools on hand:
- Large mixing bowls
- A medium-sized saucepan
- Cooking utensils
- Meal prep containers
How To Make This Recipe
Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the step-by-step process of creating this Mexican-inspired high protein vegan meal prep:
Start by preparing the couscous. Combine the taco spice and couscous, following the package instructions. Typically, add 1.5 cups of boiling water to 1 cup of couscous in a large bowl, cover for 5 minutes, and then fluff with a fork. Allow the couscous to cool.
Add the black beans and corn into the couscous mixture, stir to combine, then set it aside.
In a pan on medium heat, add the TVP, vegetable broth, tomato paste, soy sauce, and taco seasoning. Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until the liquid absorbs. Then, add the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
Finally, assemble your meals by dividing all the ingredients into 4 separate containers. To keep the avocado fresh, add it the morning of, and squeeze some lime over it before enjoying.
Tips & Tricks
- To save time during the week, you can prepare the TVP mixture in advance and refrigerate it, assembling your meals as needed.
- Feel free to customize your toppings with additional veggies, herbs, or your favorite vegan cheese.
- Adjust the level of spiciness to your taste by adding more or less taco seasoning and hot sauce.
FAQ
These meal preps can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP) is a versatile and nutritious meat substitute. It’s rich in protein, low in fat, and a good source of dietary fiber.
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with brown rice, bulgur, or any other grain of your choice.
Of course! The hot sauce is optional and can be omitted for a milder taste.
High Protein Vegan Meal Prep Mexican Inspired
Ingredients
Couscous (For gluten-free option see notes below)
- 1 cup whole wheat couscous (uncooked)
- 2 tbsp taco spice blend
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can whole kernel corn
Vegan Beef
- 1 ¼ cups TVP
- 1 ¾ cup veg broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning
- 4 cups baby spinach, chopped
Toppings
- 1.5 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup salsa
- ¼ cup greek yogurt or sour cream (vegan)
- 2 ripe avocados
- hot sauce (optional)
- 1 lime cut into wedges
Instructions
- Meanwhile, prepare your couscous by combining the taco spice and couscous and following the package instructions. (Typically, add 1.5 cups of boiling water to 1 cup of couscous in a large bowl, cover for 5 minutes then fluff with a fork.) Allow the couscous to cool.
- Add the black beans and corn into the couscous mixture, stir to combine, then set aside.
- In a pan on medium heat, add the TVP, veg broth, tomato paste, soy sauce, and taco seasoning. Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until the liquid absorbs. Then add the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 1-2 mins.
- Finally, assemble your meals by dividing all ingredients into 4 separate containers. I like to add the avocado the morning of, and squeeze with lime to keep it fresh. Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Conclusion: Mexican Inspired Vegan High Protein Meal Prep
In this article, we’ve explored the delightful world of Vegan High Protein Meal Prep with a Mexican-inspired twist. You’ve learned how to create a protein-packed, flavorful meal prep that’s perfect for both seasoned vegans and newcomers to the plant-based lifestyle. With the right ingredients, helpful tools, and a few tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying delicious and nutritious meals throughout the week.
So, why wait? Get into the kitchen and start prepping your way to a healthier, more sustainable you with these Vegan High Protein Meal Prep ideas!
Loved this meal prep idea. I made it this week and has been loving how easy my lunch was this week. I’m going to try out a few more of your vegan meal prep ideas this month.
Thanks so much Tiffany, let me know how you like the others and more meal prep recipes coming very soon!
Yum and this was super tasty. Made this for my lunches this week.
So happy you enjoyed this Hailey, thank you for the feedback!