“But Where Do You Get Your Protein?”
This a question we have been asked countless times. If you have ever contemplated removing meat from your diet, this is probably a question you have wondered yourself. But spoiler alert: You will be just fine.
In our American culture today, protein is synonymous with meat. That is what we have been told from the very beginning. Remember those early food period charts?! In case you don’t, or are too young, this is what I remember in Ms. Shaffer’s Kindergarten class….
Pretty amazing, huh?! I personally love the fat and sugar cubes sprinkled throughout! Awe, the early 90’s.
But back to protein, we have always been told it only comes from meat sources. Boy, were we misinformed. Protein is found in all sorts of plant-based foods. And I can attest to that fact because I actually had more energy once I removed all animal products from my diet than when I was eating meat for almost every meal back in Montana.
Nature is amazing. All of the foods that we eat work together in ways that scientists still don’t even understand to provide our bodies with the energy that we need. Protein is no exception. But just in case you are still worried or need to have an answer when you are asked, “But where do you get your protein?” Here is a great article titled “The Mystique of Protein and Its Implications”by T. Colin Campbell (who is the Author of “The China Study” and is one of the premiere experts in the plant based community) about protein and protein sources.
- 1 Can Garbanzo Beans (Drained and Rinsed)
- 1 Can Cannellini Beans (Drained and Rinsed)
- 1 Cup Orca Beans (Cooked)
- 1 Bunch Fresh Parsley (Chopped)
- 1 Bunch Fresh Dill (Chopped)
- 2-3 Persian Cucumbers (Diced Small)
- 1 Red Onion (Diced Small)
- ½ Small Red Cabbage (Diced Small)
- 6-8 Cherry Tomatoes (Quartered)
- ½ Cup Kalamata Olives (Sliced)
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- 1 Tbsp Ground Coriander
- 1 Tbsp Ground Cumin
- ½ Tbsp Oregano
- 1 ½ Tbsp Dried Rosemary
- 1 tsp Cinnamon
- ¼ tsp Salt
- 1 Lemon (Juiced)
- Cook dried beans and rinse canned beans. Wash and prepare all the fresh produce.
- In a small bowl combine all the spices and set aside.
- In a large bowl combine the rest of the ingredients. Toss to incorporate thoroughly.
- Sprinkle the spice mix as well as the lemon juice onto the salad and toss to combine.
- Refrigerate for an hour and serve.
- Enjoy!
