This Cottage Cheese Protein Bowl is simple and good for you! Packed with creamy cottage cheese, colorful fruits, and crunchy nuts, it’s a quick snack or light meal.
I love how flexible this bowl is—just toss in your favorite toppings! It’s like giving breakfast a fun twist. Plus, it keeps me full and happy all morning!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This creamy base is high in protein. You can use low-fat or full-fat depending on your taste. If you’re lactose intolerant, try using dairy-free cottage cheese alternatives made from almonds or soy.
Quinoa: Great for its nutty flavor and protein. If quinoa isn’t available, you can substitute with cooked brown rice or farro for a different texture and taste.
Soft-Boiled Eggs: These add a rich creaminess. If you prefer, you can use hard-boiled eggs or even scramble them for a different twist.
Veggies and Fruits: Cherry tomatoes and raspberries add freshness. Feel free to replace them with any seasonal offerings or favorites, like bell peppers or blueberries!
Chickpeas: These beans provide fiber and protein. If you’re looking for a crunch, you might consider using roasted pumpkin seeds or nuts for added texture and flavor.
How Can I Soft-Boil Eggs Perfectly?
Soft-boiling eggs can seem tricky, but with a bit of practice, you’ll master it! Follow these steps for the perfect runny yolk:
- Bring a pot of water to a gentle boil.
- Carefully add your eggs and set a timer for 6-7 minutes.
- Once the timer goes off, transfer the eggs to an ice bath immediately to stop cooking.
- After a few minutes, peel the eggs and cut them in half for that glorious yolk!
Remember to adjust the timing based on your stovetop; lower heat may take a bit longer. Enjoy your perfectly soft-boiled eggs!
Cottage Cheese Protein Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
- 2 soft-boiled eggs, halved
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup raspberries
- 1/4 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- Fresh dill, for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This bowl takes about 10 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and healthy meal option. If your quinoa is already cooked, you’ll be enjoying your protein-packed bowl in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Quinoa:
If you don’t have cooked quinoa on hand, start by following the package instructions to cook it. Once cooked, let it cool slightly so it’s comfortable to eat. This usually takes about 15 minutes.
2. Soft Boil the Eggs:
Bring a pot of water to a gentle boil. Carefully add the eggs and let them cook for about 6-7 minutes. When the time is up, transfer the eggs immediately to an ice bath to stop cooking. After a few minutes, peel the eggs and cut them in half.
3. Assemble the Bowl:
Take a bowl and start by adding the cooked quinoa on one side and the cottage cheese on the other side. This creates a nice base for your protein bowl.
4. Add the Veggies and Fruits:
Next, fill out your bowl by arranging the cherry tomatoes, raspberries, cucumber slices, red onion, and chickpeas around the quinoa and cottage cheese. Get creative with the placement for an appealing look!
5. Top with Eggs:
Finally, place the halved soft-boiled eggs on top. They add a lovely richness to the bowl.
6. Garnish and Season:
Sprinkle fresh dill over the top and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This will enhance all the flavors beautifully!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in right away and enjoy your fresh, delicious, and protein-packed cottage cheese bowl! It’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a snack.
Can I Use Different Fruits in My Bowl?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the raspberries with other fruits like blueberries, strawberries, or sliced bananas. Seasonal fruits work wonderfully here, so pick your favorites!
What Can I Substitute for Quinoa?
If you don’t have quinoa, you can use cooked brown rice, farro, or even couscous. Each option adds a different texture and flavor, but they all make for a great base!
How Can I Make This Bowl Vegetarian?
This bowl is already vegetarian! If you want to keep it plant-based, simply omit the eggs or substitute them with scrambled tofu for an egg-free option that still provides protein.
How Long Can Leftovers Be Stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to keep the eggs separate until you’re ready to eat them to maintain their texture!