Health experts recommend limiting dietary cholesterol intake, but many high-protein foods also contain high levels of dietary cholesterol. How do you get the protein you need without going over your limit? Here are five low-cholesterol foods that are also high in protein.

Beans

Beans are excellent options for cholesterol-free protein that is rich in fiber. Don't be afraid to try different beans and get creative in your recipes. For example, stewed garbanzo beans are great with sautéed kale and brown rice. Beans are also delicious when blended into bean dips. Seek out fun, heirloom varieties, and experiment with cooking dried beans in the slow cooker.

1 cup cooked black beans: 227 calories, 0 mg cholesterol, 15.2 g protein

Lentils

Similar to beans, lentils provide protein while also being low in cholesterol. They also contain over 15 grams of fiber in one cup. There are numerous types available that can add variety to salads, soups, and stews. Try French green lentils, black lentils, or yellow lentils.

1 cup cooked lentils: 229 calories, 0 mg cholesterol, 17.9 g protein

Nuts and Seeds

Shelled nuts and seeds require no preparation — making them a great protein-rich snack. They also provide plenty of heart-healthy fat without cholesterol. Cashews, pistachios, walnuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and sesame seeds are all great options.

1 ounce of pistachio nuts: 157 calories, 0 mg cholesterol, 5.8 g protein

Grains

Many popular whole grains are considered grains for culinary purposes, but they originate from protein-rich seeds. For example, quinoa is considered a complete protein, which means that it contains all of the essential amino acids. Other grains that provide protein include amaranth, millet, and wheat berries.

1 cup cooked quinoa: 190 calories, 0 mg cholesterol, 6 g protein

Tofu

Minimally refined soy products, such as fermented tofu, offer plenty of protein without cholesterol. Tofu is full of vitamins and minerals and can serve as a high-protein, cholesterol-free substitute for meats. Tofu can be grilled, roasted, or cooked in stir-fries.

3 ounces firm tofu: 70 calories, 0 mg cholesterol, 8 g protein

Lori Rice, M.S., is a nutritional scientist and author with a passion for healthy cooking, exercise physiology, and food photography.