Okay, But Seriously, Can Plants Really Deliver the Protein You Need?

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There's a reason Popeye was so big on spinach: This leafy green is one of the most nutrient-dense and protein-packed plants. And when it comes to protein, it's time for meat to share the spotlight. Plants can be incredibly rich in this key nutrient, and who doesn't want to eat more plants? From meaty portobellos to crunchy walnuts to a colorful rainbow of your favorite in-season veggies, you have so many more choices than basic beef or boring poultry.

Protein is something like a superfood, but in nutrient form. It's essential for building muscles, yet it's also a key player in maintaining a healthy weight. Protein even regulates body signals and signs, like letting you know when you're happily full – or helping you fight off the hangries.

The right mix of plant-based meals can provide all the protein you need. The gold standard amount that you need to hit all of your health goals is 0.36 grams per pound of body weight per day (or about 46 grams for someone who weighs 130 pounds). But the perks go beyond your muscles. Plants offer benefits that stretch far beyond protein, like better brain health and great gut health – meaning eating more plant-based meals can really pay off for your overall well-being. 

We're highlighting the power of plant-based foods with a collection of recipes that shows you just how much protein can be hiding in everything from legumes to your favorite veggies. With 20 grams of protein in every serving of these summer-ready dishes, you'll be more than satisfied – you'll feel full and fuel your body well. Get your tote ready, because these recipes are going to make you want to head to the market!

Give these plant-based, protein-rich recipes a try this week »

Master the Art of Recipe Substitutes

It's happened to all of us. You're pulling out the key ingredients for your fave chocolate chip cookies, and then it happens – you realize you're completely out of eggs. Or maybe you're simmering a sauce, skimming over the last steps of the recipe only to discover that you don't have any of the wine you need on hand. You can't exactly put dinner on pause to run to the store (and even today's speedy grocery delivery services don't work that fast). So what are you supposed to do?

While some ingredients have easy substitutes and stand-ins, like different flour varieties, others are pretty tricky to cook or bake without. But we're here to help! You can easily solve these common kitchen crises with simple replacements that'll deliver the right balance of flavor and texture when you're out of certain staples. Instead of crossing your fingers and hoping dinner turns out just as tasty, you can turn to a number of lesser-known substitutes that you likely do have in your fridge or pantry.

The next time you're fresh out of kitchen staples like wine, buttermilk, cornstarch and eggs, you'll know exactly what you can sub in to get the results you're hoping for. 

Discover more ingredient substitutes »

Refresh your kitchen for summer:

Get Rid of These Kitchen Items Right Now

When was the last time you combed through your utensils, gadgets and tools? It's time to "summer clean" your kitchen and get rid of anything that's broken, damaged or in bad shape. It'll help you declutter while also eliminating any potential health and food safety dangers hiding in your favorite tools (just wait until you discover how gross cracked wooden spoons can be!). 

Make Over Your Spice Rack with These Key Additions

Have you taken a close look at the spices and seasoning blends hiding in your pantry lately? Whether you're stashing expired spices in there or are lacking some key flavors that really come in handy across many different recipes, now's the perfect time to check in on your spice rack. We've got 12 must-have additions that you'll want to make sure you have on hand.

Do You Own These 7 Indispensable Kitchen Tools?

Once you've tossed out your old tools, assess what you're missing. We're sharing our favorite must-have kitchen tools that make everything from peeling to dicing to snipping simple. If you don't already own these key items, you're going to want to make sure you add them into your cooking arsenal. 

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What we've been reading this week:

Need fresh grilling ideas? You'll find plenty of veggie inspiration in the saucy, tangy and smoky plant-based BBQ recipes at Vegetarian Times.

Here's another reason to make sure you're eating fruits and veggies: These foods can lower stress! Learn more at Women's Running.

Now's the time to take advantage of the warm weather and start your own herb garden. Better Nutrition shares simple herbs to start with.

Whip up a batch of these Chocolate Chickpea Blondies from Women's Running – they're highly nutritious and totally addictive!

The Outside Guide to Happiness is the perfect mood booster with tips, tricks, insight and advice on achieving a happier, healthier outlook.

Have you "summerized" your diet? Better Nutrition explains why lightening up your meals and including different nutrients is a smart idea.

Prepare for summer heat waves with Backpacker's expert advice. This story will help you beat the heat – no matter how high temps climb.

Tired of rosé? Try the Yellow Peach Moscow Mule from Vegetarian Times – it'll become your new favorite warm-weather sip!

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