You don’t hate them anymore because you love the salad, but you can get more out of vegetables than just a side dish! You can make veggies your main course by choosing entrée salads and vegetable soups or stir-fries. For a protein-enriched diet in a day, you can learn from these suggestions.

Meat substitutes. There is a whole new world of veggie meals you never knew. Have your veggie burgers, soy crumbles, and all your favorite food without the meat. There are restaurants which specialize in meat substitutes so make sure you spot the one nearest you for a take out.

Go with low-fat dairy foods. Compared to high fat cheese you used to love, these low-fat milk, yogurt, string cheese, ricotta or cottage cheese can be as mouthwatering and at the same time, way healthier. These are rich in calcium and protein so use these for your sandwiches.

Fish. Tuna, sardines, salmon… Fish is always a great source of protein and fish doesn’t pack lots of fat unlike beef and pork. If your get yours from the can, make sure to opt for the brine variety instead of the one soaked in oil. That way you cut more fat out.

Go nuts with nuts and say yes to beans. Whether in a resto or in your own home, go for black beans or lentil soup for your side dish, Dress your salads with black, kidney, or garbanzo beans. You can have bean burritos, bean tacos, or bean taco salads as an entrée. Sprinkle chopped nuts or cooked veggies or fruits to add flavor to your favorite breakfast cereal. Nuts are good food as snacks too.