Power up with Protein

Power up with Protein

By: Jacqueline Gomes, RD, MBA

Do you every feel like you’re constantly on the go something is lacking in your diet? It could be protein! Most high-protein foods are typically not “take-away-friendly,” but there are ways around this dilemma. Think of high-fiber, high-protein carbohydrates, like nuts and seeds or dairy foods like yogurt and cheese.

Did you know?

Your organs, tissues, muscles and hormones are all made from proteins?

High Protein foods have a number of health benefits including weight loss and maintenance, building muscle and helping your body build and repair tissue. You can find the power of protein right at our shelf with our Eat Well tags which identify products that are a good source of protein!

Protein is essential for the following functions:

  1. Muscle and tissue repair
  2. Energy-yielding
  3. Bacterial-fighting Antibodies
  4. Electrolyte balance
  5. Nutrient Metabolism, Transport and Storage
  6. Regulation of Hormones

Protein Foods list

  • Fish such as tuna, salmon, cod, flounder, etc.
  • Poultry, pork, beef
  • Almonds, peanuts, soy nuts
  • Greek yogurt
  • Milk, Cheese & yogurt
  • Nuts & Nut butters
  • Eggs
  • Beans & legumes
  • Edamame
  • Ready to drink smoothie

Easy Beef Ramen Noodle Bowl

Beef Ramen Noodle bowl

Prep: 35 minutes

Makes: 4 Servings

Ingredients:

  • 2 teaspoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 3/4 lb. shell steak
  • 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 tsp. honey
  • 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 bell peppers, sliced
  • 1 head broccoli, florets removed
  • 3 packs boiled, plain ramen noodles (no seasoning packet)* See note

Toppings:

  • Sliced scallions
  • Siracha
  • Sesame seeds
  • Boiled Egg

Directions:

  1. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, garlic, lime juice, honey and cayenne. Set aside.
  2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak, sear for about 5 to 6 minutes per side for medium. Set aside on a cutting board and allow to rest for 5 minutes.
  3. To the same pan add onions, peppers and broccoli, cook for abut 5 minutes. Add soy sauce mixture, toss to coat. Add cooked ramen noodles, warm through.
  4. Add to serving bowls, top with sliced steak and additional toppings if desired. Serve immediately.

*note: Substitute ramen for low carb noodles or any other gluten free option.