This Cottage Cheese Protein Bowl is a tasty and easy meal packed with protein. It mixes creamy cottage cheese with your favorite fruits, nuts, and a drizzle of honey for sweetness.
It’s such a fun way to start the day! I love adding berries and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It feels like a treat, and I get to enjoy a healthy breakfast—win-win! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: The star of this bowl! I like using full-fat cottage cheese for creaminess, but low-fat or non-fat options work too. If you’re dairy-free, try almond or coconut yogurt for a similar texture.
Eggs: Hard-boiled eggs are great for protein. If you prefer, poached or scrambled eggs give a different texture. You can use tofu for a vegan option!
Cauliflower Rice: This is a lighter base. If you’re not a fan, swap it for cooked brown rice, quinoa, or even regular rice. They all give a nice chew.
Pickled Beets: They add tang and color! If beets aren’t your thing, pickled cucumbers or radishes can do the trick. They’ll keep that zesty flavor.
Seasonings: Everything bagel seasoning is fantastic for flavor! If you don’t have it, a mix of sesame seeds, garlic powder, and dried onion is a quick replacement.
How Do You Arrange Everything for the Perfect Bowl?
Arranging the ingredients artfully makes this bowl not only delicious but visually appealing! First, layer your base of cauliflower rice at the bottom. Next, group the vegetables in sections for a colorful display. This way, you get a bite of everything in each scoop. Sprinkle your seasonings evenly on top.
- Start with a base like rice or quinoa to anchor the flavors.
- Then, place the cottage cheese in one section for creaminess.
- Next, add your proteins. Halved eggs go on top for an appealing look.
- Finish with a sprinkle of seasoning and a fresh garnish of dill!
Remember, it’s all about balance—flavors and colors make each bite exciting!
Cottage Cheese Protein Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 cup cauliflower rice (or cooked rice/quinoa)
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, halved
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red and yellow)
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 cup pickled beets or another pickled vegetable, diced
- Fresh dill sprigs for garnish
- Everything bagel seasoning or za’atar seasoning to taste
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil drizzle (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Cottage Cheese Protein Bowl takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare. You can cook the cauliflower or grains in advance for a quicker assembly at mealtime. It’s a fresh and healthy choice for breakfast, lunch, or a snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Base
In a large bowl, evenly place your cauliflower rice or the rice/quinoa of your choice. This will be the base of your protein bowl, providing a nice foundation for all the other ingredients.
2. Arrange the Vegetables
Now it’s time to add color and flavor! Place the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and diced pickled beets carefully on top of your rice. Arrange them in sections for a beautiful presentation—this bowl should look as delightful as it tastes!
3. Add Cottage Cheese
Take your cottage cheese and spoon it into the bowl. Find a nice space for it in the mix—you want that creaminess to shine through! This will add a lovely texture to your dish.
4. Add Protein
Peel the hard-boiled eggs and cut them in half. Place the egg halves lovingly on top of the bowl. They add protein and a comforting touch to your meal.
5. Season It Up!
Sprinkle some everything bagel seasoning (or za’atar if you prefer) generously over the bowl. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste, bringing out all the flavors of your ingredients.
6. Garnish
Add fresh dill sprigs on top for that lovely herbal aroma, enhancing the freshness of your protein bowl.
7. Optional Drizzle
If you’re feeling extra fancy, drizzle a little olive oil over the top for added richness. It gives your bowl a delightful shine!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Cottage Cheese Protein Bowl is ready! Serve immediately and dig in to this satisfying, nutrient-packed meal. Every bite is a delicious balance of textures and flavors that is sure to brighten your day!
This protein bowl offers creamy cottage cheese and eggs complemented by crisp fresh vegetables and zesty pickled beets. It’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a nourishing snack!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cottage cheese is ideal for its creaminess and protein, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a thicker texture or ricotta for a slightly different flavor. Just adjust the seasoning to your taste!
How Do I Make This Bowl Vegan?
To make a vegan version, simply swap the cottage cheese for a plant-based yogurt and replace the hard-boiled eggs with diced avocado or tofu for added creaminess. You can also add roasted chickpeas for more protein!
Can I Prep This Bowl Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep certain components ahead! Cook the cauliflower rice or quinoa and chop your veggies in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the bowl just before serving for the freshest taste.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If the vegetables start to lose their crunch, you can eat it cold or quickly reheat it in the microwave, though fresh is always best!