Health & Sazón, Fútbol Edition: All-Day Energy with a Protein Boost

Listen, we're not saying we’re about to go pro, but the minute summer hits and fútbol is back in full swing—whether you’re watching or thinking of joining a weekend rec league—you know the vibes. You start stretching in the kitchen, eyeing your running shoes like, "Okay, maybe it’s my time to shine." But one thing we’ve learned (mostly the hard way)? If you’re going to start training—or just getting more active—you better feed your body right. That means one thing front and center: a protein boost.

Protein isn’t just for bodybuilders or gym rats. It’s fuel, amigos. Your muscles need it, your energy thrives on it, and your mid-afternoon crash? Yeah, that’s usually your body asking for more sustenance—not just more coffee. So if you’re gearing up to move, stretch, sweat, or even just survive the family BBQ soccer tournament, a protein boost is your best friend.

Ready for the game plan? We’ve got three protein-packed recipes that will help you stay energized from breakfast to merienda, and none of them taste like “health food.” Because around here, we need our sazón, too.

🌅 1. Morning MVP: Protein Açaí Bowl

Let’s talk breakfast. We’re skipping the dry toast and mystery cereal and diving into this gorgeous, colorful bowl of power. Think of it as a smoothie you can eat with a spoon—loaded with flavor and a protein boost.

Ingredients:

• 2 packs of frozen açaí puree

• 1 frozen banana

• 1/2 cup frozen blueberries

• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk

• 1 tablespoon almond butter

• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder

Toppings:

• Fresh banana slices

• Blueberries

• Granola

• Shredded coconut

• Chia seeds

Blend it all up until creamy, top it like you’re creating art, and dig in. You’re basically eating a tropical vacation with benefits.

Full recipe at We Are Cocina

🥗 2. Midday Fuel: Mexican Protein Bowl

Lunch is not the time to play around. You need something filling but not nap-inducing. Enter the Mexican Protein Bowl—a party in a bowl with flavor, texture, and yes, a major protein boost.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DAouU2csJl-

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa

• 1/2 cup canned black beans (rinsed and drained)

• 1/2 cup grilled corn

• 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper

• 1/4 cup chopped red onion

• 1/2 avocado, sliced

• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

• Juice of 1 lime

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein

This is the kind of bowl that keeps you going all afternoon without that sluggish “I need to lie down” feeling. Fresh, balanced, and definitely giving you that protein boost you need.

Full recipe at We Are Cocina

🍫 3. Sweet Victory: Superfood Bites

Okay, now let’s talk snacks. Training or not, you know that 3pm slump is coming. Instead of reaching for vending machine drama, keep these Superfood Bites on hand. They’re cute, poppable, and deliver that protein boost you didn’t know you needed.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pitted dates

• 1/2 cup rolled oats

• 1/4 cup chia seeds

• 1/4 cup hemp seeds

• 1/4 cup shredded coconut

• 1/4 cup cacao nibs

• 1/4 cup almond butter

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil

• 1 tablespoon honey

Just pulse everything in a food processor, roll into little bites, and refrigerate. They’re basically little power pellets of joy.

Full recipe at We Are Cocina

⚽ Protein Boost = All-Day Energy

Whether you’re lacing up your cleats or just power-walking the neighborhood, what you eat can make or break your day. A smart protein boost in your meals doesn’t just help you train better—it helps you feel better. Protein plays a vital role in building and repairing body tissue, including muscles, which is especially important when your activity level increases.

So if this summer you’re finally getting off the sidelines and into the action, don’t forget: flavor and fuel go hand in hand. Give your day a protein boost, sprinkle in some sazón, and show up for yourself—with energy, joy, and maybe even a goal or two.

Game on.