Cottage Cheese & Melon Bowl
This Cottage Cheese & Melon Bowl is a quick, high-protein breakfast or snack that combines creamy, tangy cottage cheese with sweet, juicy cantaloupe. It's designed to keep you feeling full and satisfied for hours.
For 1 serving
Prepare the melon: Wash the cantaloupe thoroughly. Carefully cut it in half, scoop out the seeds with a spoon, and then cut the flesh into bite-sized 1-inch cubes.
Assemble the base: Spoon the full-fat cottage cheese into a serving bowl, spreading it evenly to create a creamy base.
Arrange the fruit: Artfully arrange the cubed cantaloupe over the cottage cheese, ensuring an even distribution for each bite.
Add crunch: Sprinkle the roasted sunflower seeds evenly over the melon and cottage cheese for a delightful textural contrast and nutty flavor.
Season and sweeten (optional): If desired, dust lightly with ground cinnamon and drizzle with honey or maple syrup for an extra layer of sweetness and warmth.
Garnish and serve: For a fresh aromatic touch, garnish with a sprig of fresh mint. Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing, protein-packed meal.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choose ripe melon: Select a cantaloupe that feels heavy for its size, has a sweet aroma at the stem end, and a slightly soft spot at the blossom end for the best flavor.
- 2Vary your toppings: Experiment with other nuts like chopped pistachios or walnuts, or add a sprinkle of chia seeds or flax seeds for extra fiber and omega-3s.
- 3Meal prep friendly: Cube your melon ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This makes assembly in the morning even faster.
- 4Temperature matters: For optimal enjoyment, ensure your cottage cheese is well-chilled, as the cool creaminess contrasts beautifully with the fresh melon.
Adapt it for your goals.
Fruit Swap
Replace cantaloupe with other sweet fruits like peaches, berries, pineapple, or honeydew for different flavor profiles and nutrient boosts.
Nut/Seed VarietyNut/Seed Variety
Instead of sunflower seeds, try toasted almonds, pecans, or a sprinkle of hemp hearts for varied textures and nutritional benefits.
Savory TwistSavory Twist
Omit the cinnamon and honey. Instead, add a pinch of black pepper, a drizzle of good quality olive oil, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or dill for a savory take.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Protein
Cottage cheese is an excellent source of casein protein, which digests slowly, promoting satiety and supporting muscle maintenance and growth.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Cantaloupe provides a significant amount of Vitamin C for immune support and Vitamin A (beta-carotene) for vision and skin health, along with potassium for blood pressure regulation.
Good Source of Fiber
The melon contributes dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can absolutely use low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese if you prefer. The full-fat version offers a creamier texture and richer flavor, but the nutritional benefits remain similar with lower fat options.
