7 Protein-Packed Vegetables Your Kids (And You) Should Eat Every Day

Vegetables don’t pack the same protein punch as chicken or beef, but they pull double duty — they’re high in fiber and other essential nutrients that you just can’t get from animal protein.

Diets high in veggie protein have been linked to decreased risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, weight loss, and even cancer prevention.

But vegetable protein isn’t just good for you; it’s good for the environment, too. Animal agriculture has a larger carbon footprint and is way more resource-intensive than growing veggies. Plus, not many of us can grow a cow in our yard as easily as we can grow a garden.

When it comes to plant-based protein, beans are usually at the top of the list. But you don't have to choke down black bean burgers every day to get your protein. Here are 7 protein-packed veggies you and your family will love.

Sweet corn is one of the best parts of summer, and this versatile veggie provides more protein than you think. Weighing in at 4.7 g of protein per cup, sweet corn is also a good source of fiber, so you’ll feel fuller for longer. It’s perfect on the grill or shaved from the cob and added to soups, salads, and dips.

Don’t let their spiky outside dissuade you, artichokes are softies where it counts. With 4.8 g of protein per cup, this earthy veggie is delicious steamed or grilled and can be added to dips and soups or eaten on its own.

With 4.3 g of protein per cup, asparagus is a high-protein, low-carb veggie superstar. It’s high in folate and vitamin A, and it’s perfectly acceptable to eat it with your hands (as long as it’s not too saucy).

Kale has earned something of a reputation over the last several years — and for good reason. With 3.5 g of protein per cup, kale is a legit superfood that packs in a ton of other vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Everyone’s favorite fungi, the humble mushroom, packs 4 g of protein plus a ton of B vitamins. Served as a main dish, side dish, garnish, appetizer, or topping for pizza, this not-a-vegetable vegetable is as versatile as it is delicious.