Cottage Cheese With Sliced Peppers and Cherry Tomatoes – A Fresh, Protein-Packed Bowl

This simple bowl brings together creamy cottage cheese, crisp bell peppers, and sweet cherry tomatoes for a snack or light meal that feels bright and satisfying. It’s fast to assemble, easy to customize, and gentle on your budget. The textures are what make it special: cool and creamy meets crunchy and juicy, with a little seasoning to tie it all together.

Whether you’re feeding yourself between meetings or looking for a quick lunch, this is a dependable option that tastes clean and fresh. No cooking required, minimal cleanup, and it keeps you full for hours.

Cottage Cheese With Sliced Peppers and Cherry Tomatoes – A Fresh, Protein-Packed Bowl

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 2 servings

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup cottage cheese (choose 2% or full-fat for extra creaminess)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced (mix colors for variety)
• 1–2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil (optional but recommended)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice or red wine vinegar (optional for brightness)
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika (optional)
• Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or basil, chopped (optional)
• Everything bagel seasoning or za’atar (optional garnish)

Method

 

1. Prep the vegetables: Rinse the cherry tomatoes and bell peppers. Halve the tomatoes and thinly slice the peppers into strips for easy bites.
2. Season the cottage cheese: Spoon the cottage cheese into a bowl. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir in a drizzle of olive oil if you want a silkier texture.
3. Add acidity: Splash in lemon juice or a touch of red wine vinegar to wake up the flavors. This step makes a big difference.
4. Layer the toppings: Scatter the sliced peppers and halved tomatoes over the cottage cheese. Try to distribute the colorful pieces evenly.
5. Finish with flavor: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a mild kick. Add fresh herbs or a pinch of everything bagel seasoning or za’atar for extra depth.
6. Taste and adjust: Add more salt, pepper, or acidity to balance the creaminess. If it tastes flat, a little more salt or lemon usually fixes it.
7. Serve: Enjoy immediately with a spoon. If you’d like more crunch, pair it with whole-grain crackers or cucumber slices.

Why This Recipe Works

• Balanced texture: The creaminess of cottage cheese pairs perfectly with the crunch of peppers and the burst of cherry tomatoes.
• High protein, low effort: Cottage cheese delivers a strong protein hit without cooking or long prep time.
• Big flavor, simple ingredients: A pinch of salt, cracked pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil can transform a small list into a complete dish.
• Versatile foundation: You can keep it basic or dress it up with herbs, spices, or a splash of vinegar.
• Meal prep friendly: Veggies can be sliced ahead, and the bowl assembles in minutes when you need it.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cottage cheese (choose 2% or full-fat for extra creaminess)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced (mix colors for variety)
• 1–2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil (optional but recommended)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice or red wine vinegar (optional for brightness)
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika (optional)
• Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or basil, chopped (optional)
• Everything bagel seasoning or za’atar (optional garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the vegetables: Rinse the cherry tomatoes and bell peppers. Halve the tomatoes and thinly slice the peppers into strips for easy bites.
2. Season the cottage cheese: Spoon the cottage cheese into a bowl.

   Add a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir in a drizzle of olive oil if you want a silkier texture.

3. Add acidity: Splash in lemon juice or a touch of red wine vinegar to wake up the flavors. This step makes a big difference.
4. Layer the toppings: Scatter the sliced peppers and halved tomatoes over the cottage cheese.

   Try to distribute the colorful pieces evenly.

5. Finish with flavor: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a mild kick. Add fresh herbs or a pinch of everything bagel seasoning or za’atar for extra depth.
6. Taste and adjust: Add more salt, pepper, or acidity to balance the creaminess. If it tastes flat, a little more salt or lemon usually fixes it.
7. Serve: Enjoy immediately with a spoon.

   If you’d like more crunch, pair it with whole-grain crackers or cucumber slices.

Storage Instructions

• Short-term: Store the cottage cheese and cut veggies in separate airtight containers for up to 3–4 days.
• Assembled bowl: If already assembled, keep it refrigerated and eat within 24 hours for the best texture. Tomatoes can release juice over time.
• Prevent sogginess: Add salt and acidic ingredients right before eating to keep the veggies crisp and the cottage cheese thick.
• Meal prep tip: Pre-portion cottage cheese into single-serve containers and pack toppings in small separate cups to mix on the spot.

Benefits of This Recipe

• High in protein and satisfying: Cottage cheese helps keep you full, making it great for breakfast, lunch, or a post-workout snack.
• Nutrient-dense: Peppers and tomatoes bring vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber without many calories.
• Low effort, high payoff: Minimal prep, no cooking, and quick cleanup fit busy schedules.
• Budget-friendly: The ingredients are simple and affordable, especially when bought in season.
• Customizable: Works with different herbs, spices, and add-ins like seeds, nuts, or grains.

Pitfalls to Watch Out For

• Watery tomatoes: Overripe tomatoes can water down the bowl. Choose firm cherry tomatoes and cut them right before serving.
• Underseasoning: Cottage cheese needs salt, pepper, and a touch of acid to shine.

  Don’t skip seasoning.

• Texture mismatch: Thick cottage cheese works best. If yours is too loose, use less vinegar or drain off excess liquid.
• Overpowering spices: Strong seasonings like smoked paprika or za’atar can dominate. Start small and build up.
• Mixing too early: If you assemble far in advance, the veggies soften and the cottage cheese thins.

  Keep components separate until serving.

Alternatives

• Greek yogurt swap: Use thick plain Greek yogurt for a tangier base. Add a drizzle of olive oil to mimic the richness of cottage cheese.
• Vegan option: Try a dairy-free cottage cheese or silken tofu blended with lemon, salt, and olive oil for a creamy base.
• Different veggies: Cucumber, radishes, or thinly sliced snap peas offer crisp alternatives to peppers. Grape tomatoes work as well as cherry.
• Herb-forward version: Stir in chopped dill, chives, or basil right into the cottage cheese.

  Finish with lemon zest.

• Spice profiles: Go Mediterranean with oregano and olives; Tex-Mex with chili powder and cilantro; or Middle Eastern with za’atar and sumac.
• Add protein or crunch: Toss in chickpeas, toasted pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or a handful of cooked quinoa.
• Make it a meal: Serve over a bed of arugula or farro, or spoon onto whole-grain toast for a heartier plate.

FAQ

What type of cottage cheese works best?

Full-fat or 2% cottage cheese gives the best texture and flavor. Low-fat versions work but can taste a bit chalky. If using low-fat, add a little olive oil for richness.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but keep everything separate until you’re ready to eat.

Store the cottage cheese, sliced peppers, and tomatoes in separate containers and assemble just before serving.

How can I make it more filling?

Add grains like quinoa or brown rice, or pair with whole-grain toast or crackers. You can also add chickpeas, avocado slices, or a handful of nuts for extra staying power.

How do I keep the tomatoes from watering down the bowl?

Use firm cherry tomatoes and cut them right before serving. If they’re very juicy, scoop out some seeds or let them sit on a paper towel for a minute.

Is there a way to make it spicier?

Yes.

Add red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne, or diced jalapeño. A drizzle of hot honey or chili crisp also works well.

Can I use roasted peppers instead of raw?

Absolutely. Roasted red peppers add sweetness and a soft texture.

Pat them dry before adding so the bowl doesn’t get watery.

What herbs pair best with this?

Chives, parsley, basil, dill, and mint all complement the fresh flavors. Use one herb generously or mix a few for a garden vibe.

How long will leftovers last?

If mixed together, aim to eat within 24 hours. Stored separately, the ingredients keep well for 3–4 days in the fridge.

Can I add a dressing?

A light drizzle of olive oil and lemon is enough, but you can whisk a quick dressing with olive oil, lemon juice, a tiny bit of honey, Dijon, salt, and pepper.

Go easy so it doesn’t overpower the cottage cheese.

Is this good for kids?

Yes. Keep the seasonings simple, slice the peppers thin, and let them choose their own toppings. It’s colorful, which helps with picky eaters.

Final Thoughts

Cottage Cheese with Sliced Peppers and Cherry Tomatoes is the kind of recipe you make once and then keep in your back pocket.

It’s quick, fresh, and adaptable to whatever you have on hand. With just a few simple tweaks—some herbs, a little acid, and the right seasoning—you get a bowl that tastes lively and feels nourishing. Keep the ingredients stocked, and you’ve got a reliable option for busy days and low-energy evenings alike.