I’ve been on a serious cottage cheese kick lately. It all started when I was looking for ways to sneak more protein into my meals without sacrificing flavor.
Fast forward to now, and cottage cheese has become my secret weapon in the kitchen, its been a total game-changer. If you have been curious about this ingredient’s magic, this chia pudding is the perfect recipe to dive in and try it for yourself! It’s sweet, tangy and SO dang creamy- I know you’re going to love it!
The world of desserts and sweets is constantly evolving, with new trends and flavors being introduced every day. One such trend that has been making waves in recent times is the cottage cheese trend.
I have to admit – I was completely sceptical of the viral cottage cheese ‘for everything’ trend. As a fitness professional, I have seen SO many “healthy” food trends come and go, and honestly, a lot just kind of fall flat. But I decided to give this recipe a try and holy moly – I was so impressed! The cottage cheese gives the dish such creaminess, and gives a subtle cheesecake flavor, too. Plus it adds a good dollop of protein!
With a deliciously rich flavor, creamy consistency, and thick texture … this homemade breakfast, dessert or snack looks, feels, and tastes like the real deal. I promise you … it is SO GOOD! And no … you can’t taste the cheese one bit.
Cottage cheese is really good for you. Not only is it full of protein and packed with nutrients, but it is low in calories. About 80% of the protein in cottage cheese is casein, which is slowly absorbed by your body, and is ideally consumed before sleep for muscle synthesis.
That makes cottage cheese the ideal evening snack with 25 grams of protein, healthy fats and fibre as well as added vitamins and antioxidants, depending on what fruits and nuts you use as toppings. The beautiful blue colour is created with blue spirulina powder – a nutritious superfood.
Blue Spirulina Benefits
Blue spirulina, is a blue-green algae found in lakes and ponds. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, carotenoids, and protein. Studies have shown that blue spirulina may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, lower cholesterol, reduce blood pressure, help with anemia, and more. Because blue spirulina has a neutral flavor, it’s great to add to smoothies, drinks, oatmeal, and chia pudding for an extra nutritional boost.
Chia Seed Benefits
Chia seeds are tiny but mighty, as they are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, protein, calcium, and antioxidants. Chia seeds can also absorb 12x their weight in water, helping to add and prolong hydration.
These simple types of chia/cottage cheese puddings are great for meal prep as you can store them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Add your toppings when you are ready to eat and you have got a super healthy breakfast or a quick and easy snack.
Blue Spirulina Chia Protein Pudding
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup coconut milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon blue spirulina powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings Optional
- Dollop of whipped coconut cream – recipe in notes
- Fresh fruit or berries
- Chopped nuts
- Seeds like hemp, chia or sunflower
- Coconut shreds
Instructions
- In a blender, add milk, cottage cheese, honey, vanilla extract and blue spirulina. Blend for 30 seconds or until ingredients are well incorporated.Pour into jar or serving bowl and add the chia seeds and continue to mix until the seeds are fully incorporated. Let it sit on the counter for 5 minutes and then mix again.Cover the mixture and allow it to set for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator.Remove the pudding from the refrigerator and mix with a spoon to incorporate the settled chia seeds before serving.Enjoy with your desired toppings.
Notes
If you are looking for more delicious, healthy, no bake desserts and treats to help you reach your health, wellness and fitness goals, you will love my collection here: Blended Bites
