Easy Clean Eating Recipes for Beginners: Plant-Based & High Protein

Starting a plant-based diet for beginners recipes clean eating can feel intimidating at first but it doesn’t have to be. With the right approach, anyone can enjoy high-protein, nutrient-packed meals that are simple, affordable, and delicious.

This guide provides 5 easy plant-based recipes for beginners. Each recipe is designed for clean eating, with minimal ingredients, simple preparation, and a focus on high protein to fuel your day.

If you’re also interested in flat-belly-friendly meal planning, check out this guide for additional budget-friendly and beginner-friendly clean eating ideas:
👉 Beginner Clean Eating Recipes for Flat Belly Meal Planning

1. Chickpea & Spinach Power Bowl

A simple, protein-packed plant-based bowl perfect for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked chickpeas
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• ½ cup quinoa, cooked
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• Salt & pepper

Method:

1. Toss quinoa, chickpeas, and spinach in a bowl.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve chilled or warm.

✔ High in protein
✔ Easy meal prep
✔ Clean eating for beginners

2. Lentil & Vegetable Soup

A warm, hearty soup that’s great for beginner plant-based eaters.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup red lentils
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 small tomato, chopped
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp cumin, ½ tsp turmeric
• Salt & pepper

Method:

1. Combine all ingredients in a pot.
2. Simmer for 20–25 minutes until lentils are tender.
3. Blend lightly or leave chunky.
4. Serve hot.

✔ High fiber & protein
✔ Easy, budget-friendly
✔ Ideal for meal planning

3. Tofu & Veggie Stir-Fry

A quick and flavorful dish for dinner or lunch prep.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup firm tofu, cubed
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• ½ cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium)
• 1 tsp sesame oil

Method:

1. Heat sesame oil in a pan.
2. Add tofu and cook until lightly golden.
3. Toss in vegetables and stir-fry for 5–7 minutes.
4. Add soy sauce and serve immediately.

✔ High protein
✔ Quick and easy
✔ Clean eating beginner-friendly

4. Quinoa & Black Bean Salad

A versatile, no-cook option perfect for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• ½ cup black beans (cooked)
• ½ cup corn
• ½ cup diced tomatoes
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Fresh cilantro

Method:

1. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
2. Drizzle lime juice and toss gently.
3. Garnish with cilantro and serve.

✔ Protein-rich
✔ Budget-friendly
✔ Meal prep friendly

5. Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

A plant-based breakfast or snack packed with protein and energy.

Ingredients:

• 1 banana
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tbsp peanut butter
• 1 tsp chia seeds (optional)
• Ice cubes

Method:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour into a glass and enjoy.

✔ Quick and easy
✔ High-protein breakfast
✔ Beginner-friendly clean eating

These plant-based, high-protein recipes make clean eating approachable for beginners. They are easy to prep, budget-friendly, and perfect for anyone starting a plant-based diet for beginners recipes clean eating.