Cottage Cheese and Veggie Bowl: A Healthy, Protein-Packed Delight
This Cottage Cheese and Veggie Bowl is the ultimate combination of fresh, crunchy vegetables paired with creamy cottage cheese for a satisfying, nutrient-rich meal. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a post-workout snack! Packed with protein, fibre, and healthy fats, this dish is customisable for any taste preferences. Whether you’re a busy professional, a fitness enthusiast, or a home cook looking for a wholesome, light option, this recipe delivers a healthy and delicious bowl of flavours in minutes. Best of all? It’s no-cook and super simple!
🕒 Recipe Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Marinating Time: Optional, 15 minutes (if you prefer marinated veggies)
- Total Time: 10-25 minutes
🥗 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 18 grams
- Fat: 9 grams
- Carbohydrates: 17 grams
- Fibre: 4 grams
- Sugar: 6 grams
Note: Nutrition facts may vary slightly based on the specific ingredients used.
🥦 Ingredients:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (choose low-fat or regular, depending on your preference)
- 1 cup mixed raw veggies, diced (e.g., cucumber, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots, radishes)
- 1/2 avocado, cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for added flavour)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon or lime
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, dill, or chives—optional)
- Toasted seeds or nuts for garnish (optional, like sunflower seeds or slivered almonds)
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Prep the Veggies: Wash your vegetables and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Arrange them in a mixing bowl.
2. Build the Bowl: Add cottage cheese to the bowl. Then, layer in your chopped veggies and diced avocado.
3. Season: Drizzle with olive oil and squeeze fresh lemon or lime juice over everything. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Mix or Layer: For a rustic look, leave the bowl layered, or toss everything gently if you prefer it combined.
5. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs and toasted seeds or nuts on top for flavour and texture. Serve immediately or chill for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together.
Enjoy your protein-packed bowl as a light meal or snack!
💡 Helpful Tips:
✔️Drain Excess Liquid: Cottage cheese can release liquid after sitting for a while, so drain any excess for a creamier texture.
✔️Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh, vibrant veggies and ripe avocado make all the difference in flavour.
✔️Chill for Better Flavour: Let the bowl sit in the fridge for a few minutes to allow the citrus and seasonings to infuse into the veggies and cottage cheese.
✔️Meal Prep Option: Pre-chop your veggies and store them in the fridge to make prepping this bowl even faster throughout the week.
🔄 Variations of This Recipe:
✅Mediterranean-Inspired: Add kalamata olives, diced cucumber, red onion, and a sprinkle of feta cheese with a dash of oregano.
✅ Southwest-Style: Toss in black beans, corn, diced jalapeño, and a sprinkle of chilli powder. Finish with a dollop of salsa.
✅Asian Twist: Swap the olive oil for sesame oil, add shredded carrots, edamame, and sliced scallions, and finish with a splash of soy sauce.
✅Grain-Powered: Add a scoop of quinoa or farro for more complexity and heartiness.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions:
❓Can I use dairy-free alternatives?
Absolutely! Replace cottage cheese with a dairy-free alternative, like almond milk ricotta or a vegan protein spread.
❓Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Keep the ingredients separate and assemble the bowl right before eating to avoid soggy veggies.
❓How long does it keep in the fridge?
The bowl is best eaten fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
❓Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! It’s naturally low in carbs and high in protein, making it great for a ketogenic diet.
❓Can I make it sweeter?
Of course. Add fresh fruits like diced apples or halved grapes for a touch of sweetness.
👨🍳 Chef Tips:
✅Presentation Matters: If serving for guests, layer the ingredients in a clear bowl to showcase the colourful vegetables.
✅Personalise It: Mix and match veggies and seasonings to suit your palate. Don’t be afraid to experiment with fresh elements like mint, basil, or roasted garlic.
✅Upgrade the Texture: For extra crunch, add roasted chickpeas, crispy croutons, or raw snap peas.
—
With this Cottage Cheese and Veggie Bowl recipe, you’ll have a healthy, simple, and satisfying dish that you can whip up on busy days or fancy up for a gathering. It’s vibrant, versatile, and oh-so-delicious!
