Cottage cheese has found its way back into the hearts and eating plans of a new generation – but what makes it so appealing? Cottage cheese is fresh cheese with a mild flavor, available in a variety of curd sizes and milk fat percentages that can easily be found in the grocery store.
While it is thought to be the “first cheese made in America” it has recently exceeded its simple snack status and is often included in dips, pancakes, pasta and even made into ice cream! From a nutrition standpoint it is a great way to add protein to your diet, can be low in calories and contains important nutrients like calcium, vitamin A, and B vitamins.
You can eat cottage cheese as it is, but you can also try adding it to a favorite recipe for a protein boost!
Pair It
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 whole wheat crackers or try this Cottage Cheese Toast recipe. If you’re craving something savory, add tomatoes, cucumbers, a drizzle of olive oil and a dash of salt to your cottage cheese.
Blend It
Add cottage cheese to your smoothies or pancake batter 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!
Whip 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, and you don’t have any in the fridge, cottage cheese can make a great substitute. Use cottage cheese in lasagna or as a topping for your baked potato.
Cottage cheese is nutritious, delicious and versatile. Whichever way you choose to serve it, it always makes a great tasting, healthy snack!
