As soon as the summer heat begins, you only need a light, cool meal. Curd or yogurt is the best ingredient for summer meals it’s cool, healthy, and high in protein. If you’re searching for some simple, protein-rich lunch ideas using curd, you’ve come to the right place! Here are 10 high-protein and refreshing curd-based summer lunch ideas to keep you cool and energized throughout summer.
1. Greek Yogurt and Chickpea Salad
Chickpeas are loaded with protein, and when blended with Greek yogurt, it makes a delicious and satisfying salad. Mix in some chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and a bit of lemon juice for added freshness.
Protein boost :
- Greek yogurt + chickpeas
2. Cucumber Raita with Roasted Nuts
Cucumber raita is a simple summer favorite. Just combine raw cucumber with curd, mix in a dash of cumin powder, and garnish it with roasted cashews or almonds for that bit of crunch and protein.
Protein boost :
- Yogurt + roasted nuts
3. Paneer Tikka with Curd Dip
Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) grilled and seasoned is great, with a lot of protein. Have it accompanied by a chilled curd dip using mint, garlic, and a dash of lemon juice. It’s light, tasty, and packed with protein!
Protein boost :
- Paneer + yogurt
4. Curd Rice with Veggies
Curd rice is a traditional comfort food, particularly during summer. Combine cooked rice with curd and add chopped vegetables such as carrots, peas, and cucumbers. Sprinkle mustard seeds, curry leaves, and some peanuts on top for a protein boost.
Protein boost :
- Yogurt + peanuts
5. Fruit and Nut Yogurt Bowl
For a healthy and quick lunch, mix curd with your choice of fruits (such as berries, apples, or mangoes) and mix in some nuts and seeds (such as almonds, chia seeds, or flaxseeds). It’s a protein-rich, soothing meal.
Protein boost :
- Yogurt + nuts & seeds
6. Chicken Tikka with Curd Dressing
Marinate chicken in spices, curd, and lemon juice and then grill or bake. Serve it with a curd dressing with herbs and minimal garlic. The dish is very protein-rich and flavorful.
- Protein boost : Chicken + yogurt
7. Lentil and Curd Soup
A bowl of warm lentil soup with a topping of curd can make for a healthy and comforting lunch. Boil lentils with spices, and add a spoon of yogurt as a topping to provide creaminess and additional protein.
Protein boost :
- Lentils + yogurt
8. Avocado and Curd Smoothie
If you desire something light and filling, mix avocado with curd and a little honey or lemon juice. You can also add a scoop of protein powder if you desire an added protein kick.
Protein kick :
- Yogurt + avocado
9. Spicy Dahi Puri
For a light and tasty lunch, prepare dahi puri crispy puris stuffed with spicy potatoes, topped with yogurt, and garnished with tamarind chutney. It’s spicy, tangy, and has a good protein value.
–Protein booster :
- Yogurt
10. Spinach and Curd Wrap
Make a quick roll using whole wheat or multigrain tortillas. Stuff it with a combination of cooked spinach, cottage cheese, and curd. Add some flavor, and you have a protein-rich, cool lunch.
-Protein boost :
Spinach + cottage cheese + yogurt
Conclusion
Curd is a wonderful, versatile food item that can be utilized to prepare high-protein, cool, and light summer meals. Whether you feel like having a salad, smoothie, or wrap, there’s a dish made from curd for all moods. These 10 lunch options will keep you cool and active while providing you with the advantage of protein-rich food.