5 Protein-Rich Vegetables To Help You Gain Muscle

Leading a healthy, active lifestyle is something we strive to promote here at Munk Pack. Whatever your goals, we want to help you achieve them in a sustainable way. If you’re a plant-based eater looking to gain muscle or are just interested in eating less meat, you need to know about how to get the right amount of plant-based protein in your diet.
Not many people associate vegetables with protein, but the truth is that some of our favorite greens are actually protein powerhouses! Incorporate these protein-rich vegetables into your diet to help you gain muscle and strength to power you through wherever life takes you.
1. Peas for Plant-Based Protein
Peas are some of the most underrated, nutritious forms of plant-based protein around. As protein-rich vegetables, peas contain 8g of protein per cup. They also have high levels of vitamin A, C, iron, phosphorus, and fiber. We here at Munk Pack actually use a special blend of brown rice and pea protein in our Protein Cookies. Who knew getting your veggies in could be so delicious?
2. Spinach Can Keep You Strong
There’s a reason everyone’s favorite sailor Popeye was known for consuming endless amounts of spinach – he wanted to grow strong! Leading scientists and researchers agree that spinach can help improve muscle strength. The green is a rich source of calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron. These help with both muscle growth and muscle repair. As a protein-rich vegetable, spinach also has nitrates to further boost muscle function. It turns out Popeye was right – spinach really can help you get strong!
3. Broccoli for Muscle Strength
Talk to any bodybuilder and they’ll probably tell you all about their diet… which likely includes some form of protein and broccoli. What some may not realize, however, is that by consuming broccoli on top of another source of protein, they’re actually doubling down! Broccoli on its own provides a great source of plant-based protein with 3g of protein per cup, and is one of the top muscle building foods for plant-based eaters. The phytochemicals in broccoli may help strengthen muscle strength and growth, which is primarily why people who are looking to get shredded turn to it for a protein-rich vegetable.
4. Asparagus Has Vital Nutrients
Rich in vitamin K, Vitamin A, and folate, asparagus is one of the best plant based sources of protein you’ll find. Folate helps improve blood flow to working muscles, which could make asparagus your secret weapon in the gym. Plus, the glutathione in asparagus may help reduce inflammation. With 3g of protein per cup, asparagus is be a great plant-based protein to add to a meal. We love throwing asparagus on the grill or roasting it with salt and pepper. it.
5. Pumpkin Seeds to Power Up Your Workout
Pumpkin is technically a fruit, not a vegetable, but its seeds still provide a plant-based form of protein that may help you put on muscle. Pumpkin seeds are a source of plant-based protein, as well as unsaturated fats, vitamins, and minerals. Plus, just one tablespoon of pumpkin seeds delivers almost 1mg of zinc and 40mg of magnesium, which could help with sleep, recovery, and relaxation. The better you sleep, the better you may be able to perform in the gym, on the trails, or however you want to stay active. Pumpkin seeds are a key ingredient we use in our Keto Nut & Seed Bars like our Pumpkin Seed Cinnamon Almond variety.
Munk Pack is here to help you stay nourished no matter where your active life takes you. Shop with us today to discover healthier ways to stay well-fed on the go.