There’s a surprising star on every foodie’s social feed these days – cottage cheese.
But why is this dairy product getting so many likes?
We turned to Jamie Allers, MS, a registered dietitian with Hartford HealthCare’s Digestive Health Institute, for cottage cheese health benefits and a few tasty recipes.
5 reasons to love cottage cheese.
Cottage cheese isn’t just delicious — it’s convenient, too.
“Cottage cheese is quick and easy,” says Allers. “It can generally fit within most eating styles, including lactose-free options.”
The benefits of cottage cheese don’t end there. It’s also:
- High in protein and helpful for those macros.
- A good source of calcium.
- Free of allergens unless added during processing (such as gluten, nuts/seeds).
- Perfect for sweet or savory dishes.
- Low fat, low sugar and low calorie.
But beware – some cottage cheese variations may contain added ingredients like sugar or flavorings, so always check the labels.
> Related: 6 Healthy Sources of Fat to Add to Your Diet
6 delicious ways to use cottage cheese.
The options for cottage cheese recipes are endless, but here are a few that Allers recommends:
- Savory dip: Mix cottage cheese with garlic powder and fresh herbs (especially dill) and dip your veggies.
- Sweet snack: Sprinkle cottage cheese with cinnamon and orange zest and top it with a few tablespoons of chopped nuts and fruit.
- Healthy pancakes: Blend ½ cup oats, ½ cup cottage cheese, and 3 eggs. Cook on a pan like regular pancakes.
- Egg salad or tuna salad: Use cottage cheese instead of mayo for a healthier version.
- Creamy soups or sauces: Blend in a little cottage cheese for a thicker and richer texture.
- Egg dishes: Blended cottage cheese can dial up the flavor of your omelet, quiche or frittata.
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The low-down on the viral cottage cheese flatbread.
While healthy bread options exist, you may have seen this “viral flatbread” if you’re looking for alternatives.
“Compared to some processed bread products, this cottage cheese flatbread is naturally gluten-free, lower in carbohydrates, higher in protein and has calcium,” says Allers.
Here’s how to make it:
- Blend 1 cup cottage cheese, 2 eggs and seasonings.
- Spread on a sprayed or lined sheet pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 30-45 minutes until golden brown.
Is cottage cheese not for you?
“There’s no one-size-fits-all answer or food for everyone,” says Allers.
It’s OK to look beyond the cottage cheese aisle.
“There’s plenty of other ways to incorporate protein and calcium in your diet,” Allers says. “If you need guidance or inspiration, your nutritionist can help.”
