Strength Training...Food Choices?

I'm on a similar quest!
I like to have a protein shake after my workouts- it takes the stress out of trying to plan the perfect carb/protein combo meal right after working out. It's very convenient and offers a lot of nutrients. I've heard of many people doing the chocolate milk after work-outs, I personally don't like this option, it's too easy to get too much sugar and fat with the milk. Protein is more balanced for muscle re-build. Just watch the type of protein you get, some can contain high level of sodium and fat. The kind I use is Muscle Milk Light Cake Batter flavor- 210 cals in 2 scoops. Tastes awesome!
I've really seen an improvement since I've been using the protein, and I feel better after a workout, also. A benefit of the protein shake is that since it's in liquid form, your body digests it much more quickly than a meal, which means that it is reaching your muscles quicker.
But protein isn't the only option, you can also just plan a protein/carb rich meal for right after a workout. The ideal time period is within 30 minutes, that's when your muscles get the most out of it. You can go with a meal like a piece of grilled chicken breast with brown rice and steamed veggies. That's one of my favorites. I usually cook about 4 or 5 pieces of chicken and around 3 cups of brown rice on a Sunday night so that I have it on hand for the week after a workout without too much fuss with cooking.

The main thing you want after training is a good balance of protein and carbs. A good time frame is within a half hour. This time period and balance of nutrients is what you're body immediately goes for to restore your muscles and energy bank after resistance training.

Proper post workout meals should include a fast digesting protein (like whey powder) and a fast digesting carb (a serving of fruit). After strength training, your body breaks down muscle. By combining these two afterward, it will allow an insulin spike which will slow muscle breakdown and allow for muscle re-growth and rebuilding.

If you're a beginner lifter you are years away from ever having to concern yourself with pre or post workout meal timing. Don't worry about pre/post nutrition. Do what feels good or right for you.

While I believe making sure your protein is at least .8 grams per lb of lean body mass, I essentially agree with this. Most current research indicates that the content of your diet is be far more important than the time of the intake of any one nutrient including protein in a 24 hour period.