By Deborah Dunham for Blisstree.com

Since going vegetarian, I’ve had to get resourceful about making sure I got healthy and adequate sources of protein. And you know what? It’s not as hard as you might think to get this macronutrient from different plant-based sources. As a general rule of thumb, you need 0.4 grams of protein per body weight each day (so a 150-pound person would need roughly 60 grams). This helps to ensure a healthy muscle mass, immune system, and heart and respiratory functions.

Even if you’re a meat-eater, take a look at these 10 meat-free ways to get your protein each day and be inspired to try something new:

1. Avocado: One avocado has 10 grams of protein. Use it on your salad, your burrito, a sandwich or even pizza!

2. Soybeans: One cup of soybeans has a whopping 28 grams of protein! Use them in a salad, a side-dish or in stir-fry.

3. Lentils: One cup of lentils has 18 grams of protein…another excellent source. You can make a simple summer salad with these by adding diced tomatoes, olive oil and goat cheese.

Keep reading for 7 more great protein sources…

More from Blisstree.com:

Mary Helen Bowers of Ballet Beautiful on her dance-Inspired workout regimen
5 easy ways to unplug at night for a better sleep