Tasty Tuesday: Easy Protein-Packed Sweet Potato & Black Bean Recovery Burrito

After a tough run, your body craves the right nutrients to repair muscles, replenish glycogen stores, and get back to feeling its best. This Protein-Packed Sweet Potato & Black Bean Burrito is the perfect post-run meal which is packed with protein, carbs, and plenty of micronutrients to support your recovery.

Quick to prepare, full of flavour, and filling enough to satisfy your hunger, this burrito will help you refuel after your runs and keep you going through the day.

Why This Meal Works for Runners

✔ Balanced recovery – Sweet potatoes offer slow-digesting carbs to restore energy, while black beans provide protein for muscle repair.
✔ Micronutrients – Rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C (from the sweet potatoes and lime) to reduce inflammation.
✔ Customisable – Add toppings like avocado or Greek yoghurt for extra fats and protein.
✔ Meal prep-friendly – Perfect for making in batches and storing for later.

Recipe: Protein-Packed Sweet Potato & Black Bean Burrito

Ingredients (Serves 2)

• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 large whole wheat tortillas
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Optional toppings: avocado, Greek yoghurt, salsa, or hot sauce
• For the dressing:
  • 2 tbsp Greek yoghurt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp lime juice
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the sweet potato: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Toss the diced sweet potato in olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, then spread it out on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until soft and lightly caramelised.
2. Warm the tortillas: While the sweet potato roasts, heat your tortillas in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes per side, or until warm and slightly crispy.
3. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yoghurt, olive oil, lime juice, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Assemble the burritos: Once the sweet potatoes are roasted, it’s time to build your burrito. Layer each tortilla with the roasted sweet potato, black beans, fresh cilantro, and a drizzle of the dressing.
5. Optional toppings: Add avocado, Greek yoghurt, salsa, or hot sauce for extra flavour and nutrition.

How to Adapt It for Your Training Needs

🔹 For Longer Recovery: Add more carbs by adding extra sweet potato or a side of brown rice or quinoa.
🔹 For a Plant-Based Option: This recipe is naturally vegan, but you can also use a dairy-free yogurt alternative for the dressing.
🔹 For Extra Protein: Include a scoop of protein powder in your dressing, or add a handful of cooked chicken or tofu for extra muscle repair support.
🔹 For a Lower-Carb Version: Use lettuce leaves instead of tortillas to keep the meal lighter on carbs while still offering great nutritional value.

Final Thoughts

This Protein-Packed Sweet Potato & Black Bean Burrito is the perfect post-run meal for runners who want a healthy, balanced plate full of protein, carbs, and the essential nutrients that help you recover. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and customise to your taste.

Next week on Tasty Tuesdays, we’ll be sharing a homemade snack that’s perfect for refuelling during a run. Stay tuned for more!