Quick Bites · High Protein
Cottage Cheese Peach & Almond Protein Bowl (45g Protein)
This no-cook cottage cheese bowl delivers 45 grams of protein in just 376 calories, combining creamy non-fat cottage cheese with sweet peaches and crunchy almonds for a satisfying quick bite.
Nutrition per serving
- Protein
- 45 g
- Calories
- 376
- Carbs
- 24 g
- Fat
- 11 g
Nutritional values are estimates based on standard ingredient data and may vary by brand or preparation method. This information is for general reference only and is not a substitute for professional dietary advice. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups non-fat cottage cheese
- 1 medium fresh peach — sliced
- 1 tbsp sliced almonds
- 1 tsp honey
Steps
- Spoon the non-fat cottage cheese into a bowl.
- Arrange the sliced fresh peach over the cottage cheese.
- Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the peach and cottage cheese.
- Drizzle with honey before serving.
Why This Works
Non-fat cottage cheese delivers 45g protein in just 376 calories, about 28g protein per cup. That's one of the highest protein-to-calorie ratios in dairy. The curds provide casein, a slow-digesting protein that keeps you satisfied for 3-4 hours. Fresh peach adds 15mg vitamin C and natural sweetness without added sugar, while almonds contribute 3g heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and vitamin E. The texture contrast between creamy cheese, crisp almonds, and tender fruit makes each bite interesting.
Assembly Tips
Keep all ingredients cold until assembly. Cottage cheese should be refrigerator-cold (38-40°F). Slice the peach just before serving to prevent browning. For best texture contrast, add almonds right before eating so they stay crisp. The honey drizzle acts as a flavor bridge between the tangy cheese and sweet fruit. If your peach isn't fully ripe, a teaspoon of honey balances the flavor.
Make It Your Own
Swap fresh peaches for frozen (thawed and drained) or canned peaches in water. Try berries, mango, pineapple, or sliced apple. For extra protein, add 1 tbsp peanut butter or almond butter (adds 3-4g protein, 90 calories). Replace almonds with walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds. Add 1 tbsp ground flaxseed for omega-3s. For a whipped texture, blend the cottage cheese for 30 seconds before serving. Some cottage cheese brands (Good Culture, Daisy) have smoother textures if you prefer less curd structure.
Sources Research-Backed
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does cottage cheese peach bowl last?
Best eaten fresh. Almonds soften and peaches release juice after 2-3 hours. For meal prep, store cottage cheese, sliced peaches, and almonds in separate containers. Assemble bowls just before eating to maintain texture contrast.
Is cottage cheese peach bowl gluten-free?
Yes. Cottage cheese, fresh peaches, and almonds are all naturally gluten-free. If adding granola, verify it's certified gluten-free. This makes an excellent high-protein gluten-free breakfast or snack.
Can I use frozen peaches?
Yes. Thaw frozen peaches in the fridge overnight or microwave briefly. Drain excess liquid before adding to the bowl. Frozen peaches are often picked at peak ripeness and can be sweeter than out-of-season fresh peaches.
How do I make cottage cheese less lumpy?
Blend for 30 seconds for a smooth, whipped texture. Some brands (like Good Culture) are naturally smoother. Small-curd cottage cheese has finer texture than large-curd. Add a splash of milk while blending for extra creaminess.
