Cottage cheese is a fresh cheese with a mild flavor. Available in a variety of curd sizes and milk fat percentages, it is inexpensive, packed with protein and contains important nutrients like calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin B12. Cottage cheese is often recommended to help with weight loss due to its low calorie, high protein content.
Although it is often overlooked, cottage cheese can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Try a few of these pairings and recipes for a versatile snack!
Serve It
Pairing cottage cheese with fruit can make an easy and quick breakfast or snack. Pair with fresh or frozen strawberries, blueberries, peaches or pineapple! Top your bowl of cottage cheese with sliced almonds or granola for some added crunch.
Mix It
For a delicious and protein-packed snack, mix your favorite nut butter with cottage cheese and spread it on wheat toast or whole wheat crackers. If you’re craving something savory, add tomatoes and a dash of salt to your cottage cheese. Add it to your smoothies for a protein boost or mix up some Cottage Cheese and Fruit Blender Ice Cream, a healthier dessert that can be easily made at home!
Dip It
Cottage cheese’s creamy texture makes for a great dip! Try adding popular flavors like buffalo or spinach and artichoke! Whip up this Healthy Avocado Bean Dip using Greek yogurt and cottage cheese and serve with fresh vegetables or pretzels.
Substitute It
If you have a recipe that calls for sour cream, cream cheese or ricotta, cottage cheese can make a great substitute. Use cottage cheese in lasagna or as a topping for your baked potato. Add it to your baking recipes to lighten up your baked goods.
Cottage cheese is nutritious, delicious and versatile. Whichever way you choose to serve it, you’ll always get a great tasting, healthy snack!
Contributor Leslie Edwards, dietetic intern Miami University
