By the looks of the deconstructed omelet breakfast that Stanley Tucci just shared on his Instagram, it’s evident the actor and cookbook author knows the benefits of eating protein after a workout and that eating before heading out to a party is always a good idea.

Before Tucci revealed his simple yet mouthwatering meal, he explained that he was having a late breakfast (in his lush West London home garden) between working out and heading to a lunch event. It’s a smart move since consuming protein after a workout—during what is often referred to as the “recovery window”—is essential for refueling and faster, more efficient recovery.

The amino acids found in proteins work to repair muscle damage caused by microtears that can often happen after new or high-intensity workout routines, while building muscles and reducing soreness and cramps. Protein is also crucial for regulating blood glucose levels, which can improve immune function, mood, sleep and focus.

And, if you’ve ever found yourself less than excited about a party menu, you’re sure to see the genius behind Tucci’s candid and wise words: “I’m going to a lunch, but I don’t know what’s going to be served, so I’m going to eat now just in case it’s not something I want to eat, or can’t eat.” 

If you decide to try his strategy, a high protein meal like the one he prepared is a great choice that can power you through for a few hours, but it also won’t leave you so full that you can’t enjoy a bite of something that looks too good to pass up.

Because Tucci is known for his culinary skills and deep knowledge of Italian cuisine, the Italian-inspired dish he finally held for his followers to see feels completely on brand: scrambled eggs topped with sheep’s milk ricotta cheese, thick slices of tomato, olive oil and salt, plus a side of sautéed broccoli rabe. Not only does it look absolutely delicious, but assuming he used two eggs and a standard serving of cheese, Tucci’s breakfast hovers around 20 grams of protein—that’s well above our threshold for a high-protein meal.

To recreate Tucci’s meal at home, start by gently sautéing broccoli rabe with a little bit of olive oil until just wilted. While the broccoli is cooking, whisk two eggs until thoroughly combined, then cook in butter on low heat for light and fluffy results. As for achieving those picture-perfect tomato slices, try to choose a firm tomato, cutting it into thick slices using a serrated or extra sharp knife to help prevent them from being smashed. Then, simply assemble the plate by adding the ricotta cheese and tomatoes on top of the eggs and serving the broccoli rabe on the side. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkling of salt for a silky texture and overall enhanced flavors.

Make the meal even more satisfying by eating it with a slice of whole-grain bread. And don’t be afraid to make it your own by swapping out some of the ingredients. Regular broccoli, kale and spinach are all great substitutes for broccoli rabe. And small curd cottage cheese — while a bit lumpier and tangier than ricotta — is an excellent choice that’s easier to find in markets than sheep’s milk ricotta. 

Whether you follow Tucci to a tee or put a twist on his version, the easy, tasty, protein-rich breakfast is sure to become a new favorite meal, post-workout or anytime at all.