Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is all about nourishing your body with whole, wholesome ingredients. It’s rich in protein, fiber, and heart-healthy fats, and it’s super customizable based on your taste and what you have on hand. It takes just minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy days or when you want something quick and clean to eat.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- Fresh vegetables (such as cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots, or spinach)
- Avocado or sliced olives
- Nuts or seeds (such as walnuts, almonds, chia seeds, or sunflower seeds)
- Olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional herbs or spices (like dill, paprika, or everything bagel seasoning)
Directions
- Wash and chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl or plate, add a generous scoop of cottage cheese.
- Arrange the chopped veggies around or on top of the cottage cheese.
- Add sliced avocado or a handful of olives for healthy fats.
- Sprinkle with your choice of nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Drizzle with a little olive oil if desired, and season with salt, pepper, or herbs.
- Serve immediately as a snack or light meal.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 1–2 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper for heat.
- Mediterranean Style: Use cucumbers, olives, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of za’atar.
- Mexican-Inspired: Top with corn, black beans, avocado, and chili-lime seasoning.
- Sweet and Savory: Add sliced apples, berries, or a drizzle of honey with sunflower seeds.
- Grain Bowl: Serve everything over a base of cooked quinoa or brown rice for a more filling meal.
Storage/Reheating
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients separately and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble just before serving. No reheating is needed.
FAQs
Is cottage cheese a good source of protein?
Yes, it’s very high in protein and low in carbs, making it excellent for muscle repair and appetite control.
Can I use a non-dairy substitute?
Yes, plant-based cottage cheese alternatives made from almonds or tofu can be used.
What veggies go best with cottage cheese?
Crunchy and fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, and carrots pair especially well.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes, as long as you stick to low-carb veggies and full-fat cottage cheese.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
You can chop the veggies and portion the cottage cheese in advance, then combine just before eating.
What kind of nuts should I use?
Walnuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds are all great options for texture and healthy fats.
Can I make this a full meal?
Yes, add grains or a boiled egg on the side to make it more filling.
How long does cottage cheese last after opening?
Typically 5 to 7 days in the fridge, but always check the expiration date and smell.
Is olive oil necessary?
No, it’s optional, but it adds a boost of healthy fat and flavor.
Can kids eat this recipe?
Absolutely, it’s nutritious and can be adjusted to suit their tastes with mild veggies and less seasoning.
Conclusion
Healthy Fats, Veggies and Cottage Cheese is a quick, clean, and wholesome meal option that supports your health goals without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re fueling up after a workout or looking for a refreshing lunch, this mix of creamy, crunchy, and satisfying ingredients will keep you nourished and energized.
PrintHealthy Fats, Veggies and Cottage Cheese
Healthy Fats, Veggies and Cottage Cheese is a protein-packed, refreshing dish that combines creamy cottage cheese with crunchy fresh vegetables and heart-healthy fats like avocado, nuts, and seeds. It’s easy to make and perfect as a light meal or snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1–2 servings
- Category: Snack, Light Meal
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- ½ to 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 1 cup fresh vegetables (e.g., cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots, spinach)
- ½ avocado, sliced (or ¼ cup sliced olives)
- 1–2 tbsp nuts or seeds (walnuts, almonds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds)
- 1 tsp olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs or spices like dill, paprika, or everything bagel seasoning
Instructions
- Wash and chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Add cottage cheese to a bowl or plate as the base.
- Top or surround the cottage cheese with the chopped vegetables.
- Add sliced avocado or olives on top or on the side.
- Sprinkle with nuts or seeds for crunch and extra nutrients.
- Drizzle olive oil if using, and season with salt, pepper, and any optional herbs or spices.
- Serve immediately and enjoy fresh.
Notes
- Use plant-based cottage cheese for a dairy-free version.
- Prep vegetables in advance and store separately for quick assembly later.
- This dish is naturally gluten-free and high in protein.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 25mg