Peloton's Tunde Oyeneyin shares her favorite ways to use protein powder, including recipes like smoothies and pancakes

• Peloton instructor Tunde Oyeneyin said plant protein powder is key to her post-workout routine.
• She said using almond milk and fruit can turn a protein shake into an indulgent treat.

Star Peloton instructor Tunde Oyeneyin said getting enough protein is key to maximizing the benefits from your workout, and some simple hacks can make protein powder feel like an indulgent treat.

"Your recovery is just as important if not more important than the workout," she told Insider. "For my post-workout routine, my go-to is plant protein."

Protein is an essential nutrient for building muscle as well as keeping you satisfied after meals. While dietitians recommend getting most of your protein from whole foods, shakes and supplements can be a convenient way to add more of the nutrient to your diet.

Oyeneyin said having a consistent routine, including post-workout protein, helps keep her in shape. She said she previously lost 70 pounds (and kept it off) by changing her mindset and building healthy habits. Oyeneyin shared details of that journey in her memoir, Speak.

She recently joined Optimum Nutrition as a brand ambassador for their Gold Standard 100% plant protein, which she said is her daily staple.

"The creamy vanilla is my favorite flavor. It's always in my gym bag," she said.

If you have time for creative protein powder tweaks, you can add ingredients like fresh fruit and nuts for an even more delicious boost.

Almond milk is the secret to making a protein shake feel like a treat, she said

Oyeneyin said that while she typically mixes her protein powder with water on the go, she takes every opportunity to add almond milk for a more creamy texture.

One of her typical fiber-filled smoothies includes almond milk, blueberries, and spinach.

Oyeneyin said she isn't a vegetarian, and includes foods like shrimp salad and chicken in her typical meals, but said getting plenty of plant-based foods like fruits, veggies, including protein from sources like beans, helps her perform at her best.

"I listen to my body and I love the way my body feels when I include more plants," she said.

Her favorite indulgent recipe is protein pancakes

With a little time and a few extra ingredients, you can use protein powder for a twist on a brunch classic.

"If I have time and I really want to treat myself, I'm making protein pancakes," Oyeneyin said.

The pancakes pack 17 grams of protein and 120 calories per serving.

Oyeneyin's go-to recipe, which comes from Optimum nutrition, calls for:

• ½ banana
• 1 scoop Gold Standard Plant Creamy Vanilla
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ cup water
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• 1/3 cup egg whites
• toppings like blueberries and nuts

To make the pancakes, blend all the ingredients except the toppings until smooth. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto a hot, nonstick pan. Cook until golden brown, flip, and repeat on the other side.

Add your favorite toppings and dig in.

"It's great because you want to keep eating them, and you're just getting more protein," Oyeneyin said.