This is the perfect on-the-go post-workout snack—and you only need five ingredients
This post-workout snack packs in protein, carbs and micronutrients, and it's easy to eat when you're on the go

Serves |
Nutrition Per Portion | RDA | |
---|---|---|
Calories | 453 Kcal | 23% |
Fat | 13 g | 19% |
Carbohydrates | 45 g | 17% |
Protein | 45 g | 90% |
If you're heading to the gym and lifting weights, you'll know that it's meant to be hard (if it's not hard, you're probably not building any muscle), but refueling afterward doesn't have to be. And thank goodness because many of us exercise during our lunch breaks and have neither the time nor the facilities to prepare and eat an entire post-workout meal like this high-protein sweet potato chili recipe.
That's why my eyes lit up when I saw this high-protein snack recipe from Fay dietitian Shannon Cook. It has everything I want in a post-workout snack.
First, it has 45g of carbs, the macronutrient everyone should prioritize after a workout according to a sports dietitian.
There's also a sizeable serving of protein, more than the sports dietitian says is necessary (they advised a 3:1 carb-to-protein ratio), but a chunky serving of protein like this will keep you feeling full until your next meal.
But it's the addition of fruit and veg—with the vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber you get from them—that, in my opinion, makes this snack superior to a protein bar or shake.
And then there's the convenience factor. There are only five ingredients and once you've measured the quantities, they can be popped into containers and slung in a bag. You just need to assemble the turkey, cheese and pretzels into Lunchable-like bites and dip into the other ingredients as the mood takes you.
Bear in mind that at 453 calories, this snack is an ideal way to help your body recover after an intense workout, but it's probably not necessary if you've completed a less demanding workout.
Method
- Assemble the ingredients into mini open sandwiches, using the pretzels as bread.
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup roasted edamame
- 11 pretzel chips
- 1 full-fat cheese stick
- ½ cup blueberries
- 3oz low-sodium turkey deli meat

Jonathan has worked as an editor of health and fitness websites since 2016. He discovered running, yoga and the gym workouts through work, and is passionate about helping readers enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle with trustworthy advice.
- Lou MudgeFitness Writer
-
Stop wasting money on expensive “healthy” pre-workout snacks—all you need is this no-bake puffed rice cereal bar recipe
No cooking necessary
-
I’m a certified running coach and my go-to breakfast is high in protein and takes minutes to make
This microwaved protein pancake in a bowl is a lifesaver
-
This one 50 calorie addition has upgraded my chicken salad game, and now I'm never going back
One simple trick improved my go-to lunch
-
Stop wasting money on expensive “healthy” pre-workout snacks—all you need is this no-bake puffed rice cereal bar recipe
No cooking necessary
-
I’m a certified running coach and my go-to breakfast is high in protein and takes minutes to make
This microwaved protein pancake in a bowl is a lifesaver
-
This one 50 calorie addition has upgraded my chicken salad game, and now I'm never going back
One simple trick improved my go-to lunch
-
Do your shoulders slouch forward? This Pilates teacher’s five-exercise routine will improve posture, release tension in your chest and strengthen your upper back
This easy at-home routine releases tension and builds strength and stability
-
The resistance band moves this pro runner and coach uses to run faster and stay injury-free—try them today
Used by a pro, but suitable for everyone
-
How to reduce your risk of falls using one simple exercise
Improve your balance, coordination and hip flexor strength