Make this easy protein forward snack for energy

You either love it or you hate it, but cottage cheese is easily one of my favorite ingredients. It’s versatile, delicious, and packed with protein. Topped with fruit or shoveled with crackers, I eat it—daily. My toddler loves it too. If you haven’t tried it, cottage cheese has a very subtle flavor with a slightly salty taste. It’s like ricotta cheese, but with more curds. The higher the fat content in cottage cheese, the milkier its taste. Whether you’re a cottage cheese skeptic or a die-hard fan, today I’m sharing healthy cottage cheese snack ideas. Sayonara, snack rut.

Health Benefits of cottage cheese

With 12+ grams of protein in a half-cup serving, cottage cheese is a protein powerhouse. In comparison, the same serving of plain Greek yogurt contains about 10 grams of protein. Cottage cheese is an excellent source of calcium—a mineral that plays a major role in tooth and bone health—and in the prevention of osteoporosis. This type of cheese is also a good source of magnesium, zinc, potassium, and selenium. All of these play a vital role in many of the body’s functions.

Why I buy Full-Fat cottage Cheese

When it comes to buying dairy, I have two non-negotiables: organic and full-fat. First and foremost, research shows that organic food is more nutritious. This study found that organic crops have higher concentrations of antioxidants, lower levels of cadmium and nitrates, and fewer pesticide residues than non-organic crops. This particular study analyzed 343 peer-reviewed research papers—it’s the most extensive analysis of its kind. Furthermore, organic dairy is devoid of unnecessary toxins and chemicals (which can worsen hormonal imbalance). When possible, opt for organic meat and dairy. Both your body and the planet will thank you. Secondly, full-fat dairy is the way to go. It’s more satiating, lower in sugar, and doesn’t have additives (which are necessary in low-fat dairy). It’s even associated with good cholesterol and weight loss.

8 easy Cottage Cheese recipe ideas

Below are healthy cottage cheese snack ideas, plus a simple recipe to highlight summer’s juicy tomatoes. Some are sweet, some are savory. Most are keto-friendly and help balance blood sugar. I typically buy Good Culture cottage cheese (my favorite!), but any brand will do.

Blueberry Almond Crunch

In a bowl, combine cottage cheese with fresh or frozen blueberries, a spoonful or two of slivered almonds, and a drizzle of honey. Optional: add a handful of granola and a spoonful of chia seeds.

Sriracha Bowl

Layer cottage cheese with one soft boiled egg, sliced avocado, chopped green onion, sesame seeds, black pepper, and a drizzle of sriracha.

Arugula Cottage Cheese Salad

Scoop cottage cheese over a bed of arugula with sea salt, a squeeze of lemon, and splash of olive oil. Optional: add 1-2 slices of prosciutto.

Strawberries and cream

With cottage cheese as the base, add sliced strawberries, a drizzle of maple syrup, a sprinkle of sea salt, and a dash of cinnamon. Optional: add a dollop of Greek yogurt on top.

Greek-inspired nachos

Spread cottage cheese over pita chips. Top with cucumbers, kalamata olives, a drizzle of olive oil, and a dash of za’atar.

Everything but the bagel Toastie

On a piece of sourdough toast, spread cottage cheese and top with Everything But The Bagel seasoning.

Caprese open-faced sandwich

Layer one slice of your favorite bread with cottage cheese, sliced beefsteak tomatoes, basil, sea salt, a dash of balsamic glaze.

crudités and cottage cheese

On a plate, add carrots, cucumbers, radish, bell peppers, etc.—serve with cottage cheese topped with black pepper. Optional: add a side of hummus and crackers.

To watch this recipe in action, click here!