5 healthy and protein-rich dishes to try on National Food Day 2024

This National Food Day, celebrate with healthy food that makes your body happy. (Image via Pexels/ Ella Olsson)
This National Food Day, celebrate with healthy food that makes your body happy. (Image via Pexels/ Ella Olsson)

National Food Day is celebrated every year in the US on October 24. This day is a reminder that there can be a day in the year when we can eat food that nourishes the mind and body.

The day is a reminder that even healthy food can be tasty. Additionally, one doesn't have to put hours into preparing nutritious meals. We have curated a list of 5 simple, healthy, and protein-packed meals you can try this year.

Note: This article contains the writer’s opinion. Do share your suggestions regarding which other items deserve to be on the list.

This National Day, opt for foods that nourish your mind and body. (Image via Pexels/ Wancuks)
This National Day, opt for foods that nourish your mind and body. (Image via Pexels/ Wancuks)

5 healthy dishes packed with protein to try on National Food Day 2024

The National Food Day presents an opportunity to connect with each other. (Image via Pexels/ August de Richelieu)
The National Food Day presents an opportunity to connect with each other. (Image via Pexels/ August de Richelieu)

Whether you are a working professional, a stay-at-home father/mother, or a fitness enthusiast, healthy meals are for everyone. With so much information on what should or should not be eaten, choosing meals that need to be added to your diet can be confusing. Here is a roundup of 5 recipes that you can try and add your unique ingredients to them:

1. High protein breakfasts

Healthy food does not have to be complicated. (Image via Pexels/ Ella Olsson)
Healthy food does not have to be complicated. (Image via Pexels/ Ella Olsson)

You are unlikely to skip a meal if you have something prepared beforehand. One of the simplest ways to pack protein is to make these mason jar meals. You can partially cook the ingredients and add them to the mason jars. Later, when you want to eat it, add hot water to cook the ingredients and enjoy your meal fully. First, decide on the base of your meal: quinoa and noodles work best. Second, add vegetables and protein of your choice. Seal it in with your favorite sauce.


2. Protein Bowls

On National Food Day, experiment with your meal bowls. (Image via Pexels/ Alesiakozik)
On National Food Day, experiment with your meal bowls. (Image via Pexels/ Alesiakozik)

While meal bowls seem fancy, you can quickly stir up these with any home ingredients. For example, stir-fry vegetables with salt, pepper, and soy sauce. Add high-protein meat and add sauces like hummus. This meal will keep you full for a long time without craving junk food.


3. Lentil soups

Lentil soups can feel homely and are energizing. (Image via Pexels/ Yonko Kilasi)
Lentil soups can feel homely and are energizing. (Image via Pexels/ Yonko Kilasi)

It is a perfect meal when you are looking for a no-fuss lunch or dinner. Made with pantry ingredients, the lentil soup is a meal in itself. The soup can be a hearty meal, and you can add spices or vegetables, depending on your preference.


4. Shakshuka

Did you know this all-time favorite meal is packed with protein? (Image via Pexels/ N Voitkevich)
Did you know this all-time favorite meal is packed with protein? (Image via Pexels/ N Voitkevich)

A list of healthy meals without eggs would be incomplete. A dish that has gained momentum on social media, Shakshuka, is a staple of North Africa and the Middle East. Whether breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the meal works for all and is loaded with easy proteins. The eggs are cooked on a base of tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions and are served with a side of bread.


5. Fish tacos

A vibrant celebration of food and fun. (Image via Pexels/ Christian Rojas)
A vibrant celebration of food and fun. (Image via Pexels/ Christian Rojas)

Yes, even tacos can be healthy. Fish can be a rich source of protein and low fat. Whip this quick taco by air-frying fish or prawns in a light tempura coating. Load the tacos with pickled onions, coriander, and a dash of lime, and your healthy lunch is all set.


National Food Day is a time of the year when we can step back and look at our food hygiene. Cooking healthy and protein-rich meals does not always have to be an effortful process. Instead, you can keep your gut happy with just a few pantry ingredients. Remember, your gut is connected to your physical and mental health!

Which recipes are you going to try this National Food Day? Tell us in the comments below.

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Edited by Sarah Nazamuddin Harniswala