2025 has seemingly become the year of health for many people. Gyms are packed, and TikTok is filled with healthy meal inspirations. Protein is a necessary component of everyone’s diet, and sometimes I don’t want to eat meat multiple times a day! If you’re looking for some new, yummy sources of protein that aren’t chicken or ground beef, check out these snack/meal ideas!
Nurri Protein Shakes
I was at Costco recently and spotted the Nurri Chocolate Protein Milkshakes. These are absolutely amazing! I’ve tried so many different protein powders and pre-made shakes, but nothing beats Nurri. I even prefer these over Fairlife. They have 30 grams of protein, and they taste like smooth chocolate milk. They also come in a can with a tab instead of a plastic bottle, which I thought was a cool feature. These are great post-workout or just to grab in the mornings before class. If you or a friend has a Costco membership, you have to try these out!
Oikos 15g Protein yogurt cups
I eat Oikos yogurt almost every single day. I specifically like to buy the cups with 15 grams of protein instead of 20 grams because I find that they don’t bother my stomach. These make a great breakfast with some berries and granola, or I like to add them to smoothies to make them thicker and higher in protein. I’ve also used this yogurt in my favorite pancake recipe, which you can find here: https://thebigmansworld.com/protein-pancakes-recipe/#wprm-recipe-container-85431.
Cottage Cheese Scramble Toast
I’ve been a cottage cheese hater my entire life without ever trying it. I’m still scared to eat it by itself, but one morning I decided to add it into my scrambled eggs, and it was the best decision ever! I mix up two eggs with a few scoops of the Good Culture 4% Milkfat Cottage Cheese, and it gives it such a nice, fluffy texture. I toast up some sourdough and put the egg/cottage cheese scramble on top, and I’m left with the best, high-protein, savory breakfast. Hopefully one day I muster up the courage to try cottage cheese in other ways but for now, I’ll stick to my fluffy eggs.
Protein banana Muffins with Clear WHEY protein
I got into a baking/cooking mood over winter break, and one of my favorite recipes I made were these easy banana protein muffins: https://www.kimscravings.com/banana-nut-protein-muffins/. The recipe is very simple and easy to follow. I was able to get them in the oven within ten minutes! The muffins call for 1/2 cup protein powder, and since I am NOT a fan, I decided to try out clear whey protein. I got mine from Target, and it’s from the brand Isopure. It’s unflavored, so it’s perfect for baking! I couldn’t taste the protein at all once they were baked, which made me super happy. I highly recommend this recipe as a quick breakfast, snack or even a sweet treat.
Getting enough protein in can be difficult, especially as a college student. I’ve tried a TON of different protein snacks and recipes, and these are all my favorites by far! I hope these ideas can help you with your gains or just trying to be healthier overall. Happy 2025, and I wish you the best of luck in achieving your fitness goals!