Protein is an imminent nutrient for our health, however most people think of eggs. Eggs contain 6 grams of protein and are an excellent source.  However, there are many foods that have more than 7 grams.

The following ten foods offer more than 7 grams or more of protein.

Chickpeas also known as garbanzo beans provide 8 grams of protein in one cup. Chickpeas have been around since ancient Egyptian time and are the base of hummus. They can also be made into a delicious soup or tossed in a salad.

Cottage cheese contains. 12 grams of protein in 1/2 cup. It has no real flavor on its own which makes it prime to partner with any fruit. For a real surprise make it your secret pancake ingredient.

2 tablespoons of almond butter, a creamy cousin to peanut butter has 7  grams of protein. This is a great source of protein before a work out and has heart healthy benefits as well. Try making it at home. In a blender add almonds, then spike them up with cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, or curry powder.

Lentils contain 8 grams of protein in 1/2 cup which is equilavent to 1 oz of lean steak. Lentils come in a variety of colors. Brown, green, black, yellow, red, and orange. The thing about lentils is you do not soak them prior to cooking. They cook more rapidly than  other beans. Use brown to make vegetable burgers, green in salads, and red in a spicy curry.

Loaded with 7 grams of protein per ounce, cheddar cheese also has calcium, zinc, phosphorus, vitamins A and B12. Be mindful as dairy fats are not healthy and are high in sodium.

I have memories of buying pumpkin seeds at the local corner store, cracking the salted shell between my teeth and enjoying the delicious flavor.  1 oz. of shelled pumpkin seeds offer 12 grams of protein. As well they contain zinc, iron, copper, magnesium , and selenium. Pumpkin seeds make a great snack by the handful or toss them over a salad.

Quinoa is a curiosity for many as they are confused as to what exactly it is. So to clear the confusion, this whole grain is an edible seed containing 7 1/2 grains of protein in one cup. It is also a good source of fiber. Quinoa may be prepared as a rice, in a grain bowl, and even popped like popcorn.

I love shrimp and 4 ounces of it contains 17 grams of protein. Shrimp are low in calories and have little mercury. Most people tend to overcook them as they cook quickly. Stay away from breaded and deep fried shrimp. They are more flavorful grilled in pasta marinara or a salad.

Jerky is dried lean meat that contains 15 grams of protein in 1 ounce. The most well known is beef jerky but it is produced as turkey, salmon, elk, and ostrich as well. Be sure to read the labels as it may be high in sodium.

There are 9 1/2 grams of protein in 3 tablespoons of hemp seeds. Hemp seeds are a different type than those used in marijuana so no need to worry about getting high. As well they are a heart healthy fat. Try blending them in a smoothie. At a natural health food store you may also find hemp milk for your cereal.

Don’t be stuck on eggs, explore other options to get yout protein.