Edamame with Sea Salt

Edamame — young soya beans — are one of the most protein-dense plant foods you can snack on. A 150g serving provides 12g of protein at around 145 calories. They're widely available frozen and cook in 5 minutes in boiling water or the microwave.

Ingredients

• 150g frozen edamame beans (in pods or shelled)
• Flaky sea salt
• Optional: squeeze of lemon, pinch of chilli flakes

Method

1. Cook the edamame according to packet instructions — usually 4–5 minutes in boiling salted water, or 3 minutes in the microwave with a splash of water.
2. Drain and transfer to a bowl.
3. Sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt.
4. Add chilli flakes or lemon if using.
5. Eat warm, popping the beans from the pods if using in-pod.

Nutrition Notes

Soya beans are a complete protein — they contain all nine essential amino acids, which is unusual for plant protein. They're also high in isoflavones and fibre, and have a low glycaemic index. Ideal for a mid-afternoon snack on a cut.