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This BLT Cottage Cheese Bowl brings a fresh and satisfying twist to the classic BLT sandwich without the bread. Creamy cottage cheese pairs perfectly with crispy bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy greens to create a colorful, protein-rich meal that is both indulgent and nourishing. Whether you need a quick lunch or a simple dinner, this recipe comes together in under 15 minutes and requires minimal cooking, making it a perfect choice for busy days or anyone watching their carbs.
Why You’ll Love This BLT Cottage Cheese Bowl
- Nutrient packed with protein and calcium from the cottage cheese along with the flavor and crunch from fresh veggies and bacon
- Super quick and easy to prepare which suits busy schedules
- Highly customizable so you can add avocado, boiled eggs, or switch up the greens based on your mood
- Low carb and high protein which makes it a filling option for energy without the heaviness
- Guilt free indulgence that tastes like comfort food but keeps things clean and healthy
I first made this bowl on a hectic workday when I wanted something quick but still satisfying. Now it’s my go-to when I need a meal that feels like a treat but fuels me well.
Ingredients
- Cottage Cheese: Creamy and protein rich, this is the base that balances the rich bacon and juicy tomatoes. Choose full fat for better texture and flavor
- Bacon: Provides savory crunch and depth. Opt for thick cut for the best crispiness and flavor contrast
- Cherry Tomatoes: Naturally sweet and acidic which brightens the entire bowl. Look for firm, ripe tomatoes without blemishes
- Lettuce: Romaine or green leaf adds freshness and crunch to complete the BLT experience. Pick crisp leaves free from wilt or spots
- Chives: Optional but recommended for a mild oniony punch that lifts the dish
- Balsamic Glaze: Optional addition for a sweet tangy finish that ties all the elements together. Go for a quality store bought or homemade batch
How To Make the BLT Cottage Cheese Bowl
- Sauté the Bacon:
- Place bacon strips flat in a cold nonstick skillet then set heat to medium. Cook slowly flipping occasionally until bacon is golden brown and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate to drain and keep crispiness
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- While bacon cooks, rinse lettuce thoroughly, dry well, then chop or tear into bite sized pieces. Halve cherry tomatoes evenly and finely chop chives if using to ensure even distribution of flavor
- Assemble the Bowl:
- Spoon the cottage cheese into the base of a large bowl. Layer lettuce first then scatter cherry tomatoes and crumble or arrange bacon strips on top. Sprinkle with chopped chives and drizzle balsamic glaze over the entire bowl if desired
- Serve Fresh:
- Enjoy immediately while bacon is still warm to enjoy the delightful contrast between warm crispy bacon and cool creamy cottage cheese. Pair with toasted bread if not keeping it low carb
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I always love the crispy bacon here. There was one rainy Sunday when I made this bowl for a quick brunch and the warm bacon against cool cottage cheese was such a comforting combination that my family asked me to make it again the very next day.
Storage tips
For best results enjoy the bowl fresh but if prepping ahead, keep bacon, cottage cheese, and vegetables stored separately in airtight containers. Store cooked bacon with a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture and keep it crispy. Assemble just before eating and consume within 2 to 3 days for optimal texture and flavor.
Ingredient substitutions
To make it vegetarian, replace bacon with crispy tempeh bacon or roasted chickpeas for a similar crunch. Turkey bacon offers a leaner alternative without sacrificing crunch and flavor. Try butter lettuce or green leaf in place of romaine if preferred. You can add avocado or a soft boiled egg for extra richness and nutrients.
Serving suggestions
Serve this bowl as a standalone meal for lunch or light dinner. It pairs beautifully with toasted sourdough or crusty bread if carbs are welcome. Add a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or sprinkle everything bagel seasoning to give the dish an extra kick. A crisp white wine or light iced tea complements the flavors well.
Cultural context
This recipe reinvents the classic American BLT sandwich in a bowl format with cottage cheese substituting for bread and mayo. It reflects current trends towards low carb, high protein meals that emphasize fresh, whole ingredients while keeping beloved comfort flavors intact.
Pro Tips
- Cook bacon slowly from a cold skillet for even crispiness without burning.
- Dry lettuce thoroughly after rinsing to prevent sogginess.
- Toast spices or seasonings to add depth if customizing your toppings.
Commonly Asked Questions
- → Can I make this bowl vegetarian?
Yes, swap the bacon for crispy tempeh bacon, roasted chickpeas, or smoked tofu to keep the same savory crunch and texture.
- → What type of lettuce works best?
Romaine or green leaf lettuce provides a nice crunch while keeping flavors balanced without overpowering the other ingredients.
- → Is cottage cheese suitable for weight management?
Cottage cheese is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it a filling choice for those focusing on balanced nutrition.
- → Can turkey bacon be used instead of pork bacon?
Absolutely, turkey bacon offers a leaner alternative while still delivering a crispy and savory element to the bowl.
- → How should I store leftovers for best quality?
Keep the cottage cheese, vegetables, and cooked bacon separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator, assembling fresh before eating to maintain texture.
- → What additional toppings can enhance this bowl?
Try adding slices of avocado, a soft-boiled egg, radishes, or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor and variety.