5 Fresh Edamame Ideas - a Plant-Based Protein Source

Edamame pods are a popular snack and appetizer that are often steamed and topped with a pinch of sea salt, but there’s a world of ways to use edamame beyond what you typically see. Here’s how to reimagine this underrated protein source with 5 new-and-exciting edamame ideas. 

So, what is edamame, anyway? 

Edamame beans are whole, immature soybeans. They are bright green and differ in color from regular soybeans, which are typically light brown. At 18 grams of plant-based protein per 1-cup serving, they’re a powerhouse of protein. Of course, edamame makes a delicious snack but there are so many more ways to use this superfood ingredient. 

You can either buy edamame shelled or with the pods still on, but no matter how you buy them, it’s always a good idea to purchase organic so that you’re not exposing yourself to harmful toxins or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Here are 5 genius edamame ideas to help you reimagine this plant-protein-rich legume:

Crispy edamame

In a large bowl, toss cooked shelled edamame with a drizzle of olive oil. Next, add in your favorite dried spices like garlic and smoked paprika and top with fresh-grated parmesan cheese or grana padarno. Next, toss oiled and seasoned edamame onto a baking sheet and bake in the oven until the cheese is melted. If you don’t eat cheese, that’s no problem. Edamame also works well with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast because it’s a complete protein like those found in animal products and also imparts that same desired cheesy flavor.

Try: Roasted Spicy Chickpeas

Garlic ginger edamame

Garlic and ginger are a flavor combination made in heaven for just about anything – including edamame! In a large skillet, add minced garlic and ginger and cook for about 30 seconds. Next, remove from the heat and then stir in tamari, soy sauce or coconut aminos, sesame oil and maple syrup. Finally, toss cooked edamame (shelled or in their pods) with the sauce and enjoy.

Add edamame to sauces and sides

Edamame is an unconventional addition to sauces that add nutrients (hello boost of protein!) and a pop of color. Whether you’re making a sauce for meatballs, a stir fry sauce, or a simple pot of rice, couscous or quinoa, simply stir in some shelled, cooked edamame near the end of cooking, et voila! 

Try: Summer Bean Salad

Make edamame hummus and guacamole!

Who said you can only make hummus with chickpeas? Enter edamame. In the place of chickpeas, use shelled, cooked edamame. The result is a beautiful, totally Instagramable green hummus that’s perfect as a healthy spread or dip. Consider the same edamame stand-in for guacamole. There’s no need to typecast guacamole as an avocado-only based dip. Simply replace avocados with edamame for a fresh take on the classic Mexican appetizer. 

Try: Shishito Pepper and Edamame Mockamole 

Add a smoky twist to simple, steamed edamame

Never underestimate the power of smoked sea salt to totally transform a dish.  If your favorite way to enjoy edamame is steamed, this simple smoked sea salt trick will elevate conventional steamed edamame to a whole new level! Try adding a pinch of smoked sea salt and coconut palm sugar to steamed edamame pods for a sweet-and-savory vibe!

More edamame ideas:

There are so many ways to boost your protein intake with plant-based edamame. Here are some of our all-time best edamame recipes:

• Edamame Falafel Wraps
• Edamame Pate Sandwiches
• Sweet and Spicy Nuts with Dried Edamame