Ok firstly you should be taking your protein within (ideally) 15 minutes, however up to 45 minutes can be fine although you wont gain as much benefit, after your workout. This is due to the energy in your muscles etc. can't really be bothered going into it now, but do a quick "post workout nutrition" search in google and you will quickly find your answer.

Anyways a great way to improve recovery time and help stay cut is L-Glutamine. The most abundant amino acid in your body, without supplementation or proper diet it can take up to 6 days to get back to the levels of a pre-workout. So what does this mean when you supplement it in your post workout shake... it helps your metabolise protein, helps secrete human growth hormone and stops your muscle from canabolising themself after a cardio workout. Basically one of the best supplements around, it can be slightly expensive however it will last you a long time. A teaspoon in your postworkout shake and you will feel better quicker than ever. I know I am now able to do two workouts a day, which before i was getting sore as hell. If anything i have stepped up training dramatically. Hope this helps buddy.