When you think of protein, you typically think of a few standard items like meat, eggs,fish and nuts but if you rely exclusively on these standards for all your protein needs, your diet will eventually get pretty boring. Many whole grains, cheeses and vegetables serve up a surprising amount of the muscle-builder, and adding them to your plate can pump up the protein content considerably. Some even have enough protein to stand as your meal or snack's main source.

Here are some really unexpected sources of protein.

1. GREEN PEAS

Green peas have almost right grams of protein per cup. Peas also have over eight grams of fiber, which will keep you full and happy long after you've cleared your plate. And with almost 100% of your daily value of Vitamin C in a single cup, they'll keep your immune system up to snuff.

2.SUN DRIED TOMATOES

Tomatoes are packed with the antioxidant lycopene, which studies show can decrease your risk of bladder, lung, prostrate, skin and stomach cancers, as well as reduce the risk of coronary artery disease. Just one cup of the sun-dried tomatoes will give you 7 grams of fiber, 3/4 of potassium which is essential for heart health and tissue repair and 50% of your RDA of Vitamin C, the superstar antioxidant that prevents DNA damage. They're also rich in Vitamin A and K.

3. GUAVA

The highest protein fruit, guava packs more than 4 grams per cup, along with 9 grams of fiber and only 112 calories. With 600% of your DV of Vitamin C per cup, the equivalent of more than seven medium oranges, the tropical fruit should make it's way into your diet.

4. SPINACH

Spinach is known as a "super food" because of its antioxidant properties. However, it is also a good source of protein. One cup of boiled spinach contains five grams of protein, which is more protein than that in one tablespoon of peanut butter.

5. AVOCADO

Avocado is known for providing heart healthy monosaturated fats, but it also provides a significant amount of protein. A cup of avocado provides 4 grams of protein.

6.MUSHROOMS

Mushrooms, technically edible fungi rich in nutrients, have similar characteristics to that of meat, beans and grains. While naturally fat-free, cholesterol-free, gluten-free and low in calories, mushrooms are high in B vitamins, copper and potassium while also being the only plant-based source of Vitamin D.

7. LENTILS

Like beans, lentils are also a solid, versatile source of protein. They can be added to soups or salads or enjoyed on their own with a little bit of seasoning.

Article credit : Cocci Beauty