The humble cottage cheese has long been relegated to the status of an undesirable snack by those watching their waistline. Yet, the truth is that cottage cheese is a powerhouse of nutrition that has as many health benefits as it does delicious ways to enjoy it. Understanding how to eat it only enhances its already great taste.
From its substantial protein content to its soothing calcium stores, cottage cheese can form the platform for great nutrition. Scientifically known as casein, an essential protein for your body, cottage cheese has been proven to make an excellent addition to any diet. As 1 cup of low-fat cottage cheese contains 28 grams of protein, it encapsulates a variety of important nutrients, providing calcium, magnesium, zinc, and vitamins A, B-12, and B-6.
Preparing your cottage cheese is relatively simple. First off, start with one cup of 2% or 5% varieties; regular 1% or 4% varieties may be better option for those trying to manage their cholesterol or salt intake. Secondly, consider adding additional vegetables such as fresh spinach or zucchini to your snack, and turn it into a meal in a matter of minutes. Lastly, if you’re looking for a sweet and creamy treat, mix in fresh fruit such as blueberries or strawberries.
For those that appreciate a texture beside the creamy goodness of cottage cheese, you can try experimenting with crunchy ingredients like oatmeal or chia seeds, or even savory additions such as diced onion, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic salt, or chopped fresh herbs. When you’re busy with the morning rush and need convenience for a snack, consider opting for the pre-made variety; however, stay away from the containers with added sugar.
When it comes to eating cottage cheese for breakfast, combine it with a slice of whole-grain toast, a hard-boiled egg and some lettuce for a complete meal. On hot days, make a creamy and savory cold cottage cheese salad with cucumber, olives, celery and olive oil as a topper. To make cottage cheese the main star for dinner, spoon it over roasted potatoes and vegetables, accompanied by a few whole-wheat pita bread wedges.
Cooked dishes can highlight cottage cheese’s unique flavor and texture. To create a rich, cheesy lasagna filling, mix an egg, 2.5 cups of cottage cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, and fresh parsley. Add a few layers of prepared lasagna noodles, pour some marinara sauce, and bake it in the oven. Ultimately, cottage cheese makes an ideal ingredient for any healthy dish.
Advantages Of Eating Cottage Cheese
When it comes to its health advantages, cottage cheese has more than earned the right to be a top choice in your fridge. Due to its high protein content per cup, it is the perfect pre-workout snack. Paired with a piece of fruit or a few whole-grain crackers, cottage cheese helps to fuel your body for your next intensive gym session. Not to forget that the low-fat content in cottage cheese makes it an ideal companion for weight loss.
Along with aiding in the successful management of a healthy weight, cottage cheese can lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis, and even bolster the immune system.
Aside from the health benefits, cottage cheese also offers a range of smells and tastes. From the mild and sweet to the thick and sharp, you’ll never tire of this delectable snack.
The Origins Of Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese has a long history, beginning with simple farmers and their homes where ‘curds’ made with milk were eaten. As the centuries passed, farmers and households continued to make cottage cheese using similar methods to present-day standards. It is due to innovation and preservation in age-old methods that paved the path for cottage cheese and its great taste.
Cottage cheese was able to gain a foothold in the world by a simple understanding. By properly storing the cheese and packing it in containers, it was able to be sent around the world. People were then able to easily enjoy it and experiment with new recipes.
In the USA, cottage cheese has been popular for decades and has been featured in cookbooks since the 19th century. It is especially loved in the Midwest, where it is made with skimmed milk or cream and is prized by cooks from breakfast through dinner.
As its popularity spread, creative variations were born. For example, some versions contain added gelatin in order to create a thicker product. In addition, cottage cheese is easily mixed with different fruits and vegetables, along with different herbs and spices.
Conclusion
Consuming cottage cheese is quite simple, as it can almost be added to any meal of the day. Whether you opt for the plain version or get creative with your own unique recipe, cottage cheese should undoubtedly make the list as one of the healthiest snacks available. Its protein content, low fat content, and its nutrition promises it will be a go-to snack or meal for many.
Uses Of Cottage Cheese For Skin & Hair Care
For those looking to maintain healthy skin and hair, cottage cheese can be a great addition to your daily routine. When applied to your skin, the lactic acid contained within cottage cheese helps to restore your skin’s balance while hydrating it too.
For those that suffer from a dull or flaky complexion, a facial mask made of cottage cheese and honey can be the perfect remedy. When left on the skin for 15 minutes and then removed, it refreshes your skin and leaves it glowing.Cottage cheese can also be used as a hair treatment; simply mix it with natural oils and spread it throughout your scalp and ends. This creates a relaxing and healthy treatment that will leave your hair silky and soft.
If you are looking for a tasty snack that can also provide health benefits, cottage cheese is a great option. By selecting the right ingredients, you can enjoy nutritious meals and snacks that come with added benefits for your skin and hair.
Ways To Enjoy Cottage Cheese
If you’re looking for more creative ways to enjoy cottage cheese, consider making a few cheese balls. These bitesize treats are both delicious and easy to make, as they consist of rolling the cheese mixture into individual balls, coating them with crunchy ingredients, and then refrigerating them. These can last up to a week and be added to deli sandwiches, salads, or even eaten by themselves.
Along with using cottage cheese for snacks, you can also conjure up rich and creamy desserts. For example, a light and flavorful yogurt and cottage cheese tart pairs medjool dates and spirulina for a great combination of taste and nutrition. Another great cottage cheese option is a lightening lemon mousse, made with low-fat cottage cheese, lemon zest, and a topping of refreshing blueberries.
Ultimately, no matter what meal you’re cooking, or what dish you’re making, cottage cheese can always be incorporated to further enhance both the taste and the nutrition. By delving into a world of experimental recipes, you’ll be able to get more out of the humble cottage cheese.
Key Nutrients Of Cottage Cheese
The nutrition facts of cottage cheese indicate that it’s excellent for proper health. A 1-cup serving of dry cottage cheese contains 161 calories, 8.9 grams of fat, and 13 grams of carbohydrates. However, the same serving size contains 28 grams of protein, 275 milligrams of calcium, and 24% of the Recommended Daily Value (RDA) for phosphorus.
Additionally, cottage cheese contains Vitamin A, Vitamin B, Vitamin D, and B-12, as well as a small amount of iron. Cottage cheese is also relatively low in sodium and makes a perfect snack for those monitoring their salt intake.
Due to its variety of essential and important minerals, cottage cheese can help people maintain not only a healthy weight, but also a strong immune system and strong bones. As
