Cottage cheese recipes

Cottage cheese is a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be used in a variety of delicious dishes. From savory meals to sweet treats, cottage cheese adds a creamy texture and a boost of protein. Some favorite recipes include fluffy Cottage Cheese Pancakes, where the cottage cheese blends with eggs and flour to create light and tender pancakes, perfect for breakfast or brunch. For a lighter option, Cottage Cheese Salad combines fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives with a drizzle of olive oil, making for a refreshing and healthy side dish or light lunch. Another fantastic option is Cottage Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Peppers, where bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of cottage cheese, quinoa, and spinach, then baked to perfection. These recipes showcase the versatility of cottage cheese, offering something for everyone, whether you're craving a hearty meal or a light snack.

1. Cottage Cheese Pancakes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• Butter or oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk the eggs and cottage cheese together until smooth.
2. Add milk, vanilla, and sugar (if using).
3. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a little butter or oil.
6. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto the pan. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
8. Serve with fresh fruit, syrup, or honey.

2. Cottage Cheese Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup olives, sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (parsley or basil) for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper, and toss to combine.
4. Garnish with fresh herbs.
5. Serve as a light lunch or as a side dish.

3. Cottage Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Peppers

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
3. In a bowl, mix cottage cheese, cooked quinoa/rice, spinach, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff the bell peppers with the mixture and place them in a baking dish.
5. Top each pepper with shredded mozzarella if desired.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown.
8. Serve hot as a delicious and nutritious main course.

These recipes are light, healthy, and packed with protein from cottage cheese. Enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!