You've just crushed your workout and, after catching your breath, the first thing on your mind is food. Yes, you need protein, but you're probably hankering for carbs. After all, your depleted glycogen stores aren't going to replenish themselves. Whether your tooth is sweet or savory, a stuffed potato could be the way to go!
We all harp on the importance of post-workout protein, but we often forget about the importance of carbs. So, next time you go to grill that steak, throw on a side of baked potato. Or, better yet, make that hot potato the star of your dish. Try these three muscle-building recipes to satisfy your hunger, kick-start recovery and growht, and get you primed for your next gym session.
1. The Muscle-Gainer: Salmon-Stuffed Red Potato
If you want to build muscle and add size, eating salmon and potatoes is the way to go. It's hands-down delicious when you prepare it the Fit Men Cook-style. Adding salmon is a great way to "dress up" a staple bodybuilding meal. You may never eat salmon and red potatoes the same way again. Ever.
2. Bodybuilding Budget Potato: Chili-Stuffed Sweet Potato
You can't beat building muscle on less than $3 per serving! Not only will this meal satisfy your wallet, but it will also put your muscles on the road to recovery. This is a perfect combo of sweet and savory flavors with high-quality protein and complex carbohydrates. Even better, it's an easy meal you can prep in advance-just top it with chili when you're ready to eat. Now, go grow!
3. Antioxidant Crunch: Honey-Stuffed Purple Sweet Potato
Nope, your eyes aren't playing tricks on ya! That's definitely a purple sweet potato, and it's delicious. If you're like me, you probably have pretty aggressive sweet cravings after a tough workout. The first thing on your mind might be smashing a pint of ice cream. Try this recipe instead!
In addition to the regular vitamins and minerals that sweet potatoes provide, a single serving of purple sweet potatoes are loaded with more antioxidants than a single serving of blueberries. Crush your goals and get those nutrients in!
TIP: When selecting orange or purple sweet potatoes, I like to choose ones that have darker, richer colors. If you can't find purple sweet potatoes at the local grocery store, check your local farmers market or specialty grocery stores.
