To load up on extra protein, you don't need to subsist on chicken breast, salmon, and shakes. Open up the tub of protein powder that's already in your pantry. Then get creative with these nine easy recipes.
There's more you can do with a scoop of protein powder than toss it into a smoothie—much more.
Sources: Jen Comas Keck, C.P.T., nutrition coach; Anna Sward, founder of Proteinpow.com; Roger Lawson, C.S.C.S.; Julie Lohre, C.P.T.
1
Banana Pudding
Stir banana protein powder into Greek yogurt: one scoop of protein for 1 cup of yogurt.
2
Powered-Up Oatmeal
Let plain oatmeal cool a bit, then mix in a scoop of chocolate or cinnamon roll-flavored protein.
3
Hot Chocolate
Make a cup of hot cocoa and let it cool until it's warm, not hot. Add chocolate, vanilla, or unflavored protein.
4
Protein Pancakes
Beat together one whole egg and two egg whites. Mix in one scoop of any flavor of protein powder. Add powder until you reach a pancake batter-like consistency. Top with all-natural peanut butter and bananas.
5
Instant Mocha
After a cup of coffee has cooled a bit, stir in vanilla protein for a "latte" or chocolate protein for a "mocha."
6
Peanut Butter Balls
Knead chocolate or unflavored protein into natural peanut butter. Keep them in the fridge for a quick snack.
7
Sweet or Savory Crepe
Beat together two eggs and 3 tbsp milk. Add about one scoop of protein powder, so the batter has a runny consistency. Cook a thin layer on a nonstick pan over medium heat. Fill with baked apples . For a savory crepe, stuff with mushrooms, spinach, and goat cheese.
For a baked apple filling:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- In a shallow baking pan, combine the slices from two apples, a dash of cinnamon, a dash of nutmeg, 2 tbsp melted butter, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake until apples are tender, about 45 minutes.
8
Tangy Ranch Dip
Fold a scoop of unflavored protein powder and ranch dressing seasonings into Greek yogurt. (Find ranch dressing seasonings in the salad dressing aisle.)
9
Chocolate Cheesecake
Mix chocolate protein powder into cottage cheese. Refrigerate and top with berries.
Recommended For You
The Six Pillars Of Successful Fitness Nutrition
Not eating the right foods to support intense activity only holds you back. These six pillars of nutrition form the foundation for fitness success!
5 Ways Cheat Meals Can Improve Your Body!
Cheat meals don't have to spell diet disaster. In fact, a well-structured cheat meal can help you surmount weight-loss plateaus! Cheat smart with these must-read tips.