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Healthy High-Protein Fruit Salad with Creamy Cottage Cheese

healthy high-protein fruit salad - featured image

A quick, light, and protein-packed fruit salad combining fresh berries, cottage cheese, nuts, and a touch of honey for a refreshing and satisfying energy boost.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup small-curd creamy cottage cheese (preferably full-fat)
  • 1 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • 1/2 cup diced kiwi or apple
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (toasted if desired)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • Optional: a few leaves of fresh mint or basil, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Wash fresh fruit thoroughly. Hull and slice strawberries, peel and dice kiwi or apple into bite-size pieces, and measure out the berries. If using peaches or melon in season, chop similarly. Toss all fruit gently into a mixing bowl.
  2. Optional: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add chopped walnuts or almonds and toast, stirring frequently until fragrant and slightly golden. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. Add the small-curd cottage cheese to the fruit bowl. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup and squeeze in fresh lemon juice. Add the cooled toasted nuts and fresh mint or basil if using.
  4. Using a large spoon, gently fold all ingredients together to coat evenly without mashing the fruit. The cottage cheese should remain creamy and distinct.
  5. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours to meld flavors. If chilled, stir gently before serving.

Notes

Use small-curd cottage cheese for best texture. Toast nuts lightly to enhance flavor but avoid burning. Keep cottage cheese chilled until last moment for freshness. Lemon juice prevents fruit browning. Mix gently to avoid mashing fruit. Can substitute cottage cheese with Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt for dairy-free option.

Nutrition

Keywords: high-protein fruit salad, cottage cheese salad, healthy snack, quick energy boost, fresh fruit salad, protein-packed snack