If you're tired of inhaling chicken breast in a relentless quest for protein, we're about to make your life so much easier (and your meals so much tastier). Vegetables can actually be a sneaky source of protein, and we're not just dragging your heart around here. You see, protein isn't just chilling in a chicken breast or that questionable protein shake your bro roommate swears by. It's also hanging out in your vegetable crisper, often accompanied by a lovely entourage of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

For the sceptics among you asking 'Can I really chow down on some crunchy veg instead of the dreaded dry chicken?' The answer is a resounding: Hell yeah! Enter our green warriors (and, spoiler alert, some aren’t even green): edamame, lentils, black beans, chickpeas, lima beans, fava beans, green peas, spinach, Brussels sprouts, artichokes, corn, broccoli, asparagus, mushrooms, and sweet potatoes. These bad boys pack everything from 18.6 to 2.1 grams of protein per cup (yes, you read it right, per cup!).

Here's the deal: not only are these veggies armed with protein, they're also versatile as all get out. Fancy some badass Brussels sprouts sautéed with garlic? We got you. Thinking about a side of mushrooms oozing with umami? Totally doable. Hungry for a delicious high-protein edamame stir-fry? No problem.

But, be warned - making the most out of these protein-loaded veggies involves creativity, and possibly a little daring culinary exploration. You can tack spinach onto your breakfast, toss chickpeas into a meal-fit-for-a-king, or add a quirky touch to your artichokes. Not to mention the countless ways our favorite fungi, mushrooms, can be employed.

The bottom line? Ignoring the protein-power of veggies is about as sensible as doing a juice cleanse in a frat house. So go ahead, open the door to plant-based protein heaven with an edgy, no BS approach. From edamame to asparagus, there's a whole world of protein-ready veggies waiting to be added to your shopping basket, and your plate.