Tag

high protein

Browsing
30 Minutes or Less

Cottage Cheese Smoothie (35g protein!)

By
cottage cheese smoothie with a strawberry on the side.

It’s true! You really can add cottage cheese to almost everything. My personal favorite way to use cottage cheese is in a recipe where you won’t even taste it. Because if I’m being completely honest, I actually don’t like cottage cheese. Which is why in any recipe I use cottage cheese, like this cottage cheese cookie dough or this cottage cheese pizza crust, I can guarantee you won’t taste the cottage cheese at all! It simply adds hidden protein and nutrients, and in this smoothie specifically – makes it ultra thick, creamy, and ultimately SO delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese Smoothie

  • Over 35 grams of protein in one smoothie!
  • Perfect for a healthy breakfast, post-workout meal, or filling snack.
  • Thick, creamy, and delicious – no grainy texture.
  • You can’t taste the cottage cheese at all!
  • Naturally sweetened with fruit.
  • Quick and easy to make in under 5 minutes.

This smoothie is ideal if you’re trying to increase protein intake without relying solely on Greek yogurt or protein shakes.

overhead image of cottage cheese smoothie with a straw and strawberry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you taste the cottage cheese?

Nope! Once blended, cottage cheese becomes ultra-smooth and creamy. It has a very mild flavor, so the banana, berries, and protein powder completely mask it. Even cottage-cheese skeptics will love this smoothie!

What kind of protein powder did you use?

I used a vanilla protein powder (this link gets you 20% off the protein powder I use and love!), but any vanilla or unsweetened protein powder works well. Even collagen powder would taste great and blend seamlessly into this smoothie.

How much protein does this smoothie have?

This smoothie contains over 35 grams of protein, depending on the brand of cottage cheese, milk, and protein powder you use. Even without protein powder, it’s still packed with protein thanks to the cottage cheese.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • No protein powder: Skip it – the smoothie is still high in protein!
  • Different fruit: Swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or mango.
  • Extra thickness: Add ice or more frozen fruit.
  • More nutrients: Blend in spinach or chia seeds for a nutrient boost!
cottage cheese smoothie with a strawberry on the side.
No ratings yet

Cottage Cheese Smoothie (35g protein!)

This cottage cheese smoothie is thick, creamy, and packed with over 35 grams of protein, making it a perfect healthy breakfast or high-protein snack! You can’t taste the cottage cheese at all – it blends smoothly with frozen fruit for a delicious, naturally sweet flavor. Made with simple ingredients, this protein smoothie is quick, filling, and ideal for busy mornings or post-workout fuel!
Print Pin Rate
Servings: 1 serving

Equipment

  • 1 blender

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup cottage cheese
  • 1/2 frozen banana
  • 4-5 frozen strawberries or 1/2 cup frozen berries
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1 scoop (or 1 serving) protein powder optional for extra protein!

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth, then pour into a glass and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1smoothie | Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 37g | Fat: 9g | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 20g
View Post
By
30 Minutes or Less

Protein Coffee Recipe (15g protein!)

By
protein coffee on a table with coffee and milk on the side.

I’ve done my research and discovered that most of us are not eating enough protein every day! And while I can tell myself I want to eat more protein throughout the day, it’s not always possible – and definitely not easy. So I came up with the easiest way possible to get in an extra 15 grams (at least!) of protein first thing in the morning… in my coffee! Because while I might not have time to think about or remember to eat a protein-packed meal, I always make time for my morning coffee. By adding this protein coffee recipe to my morning routine, I add anywhere from 15 grams – 30 grams of additional protein to my day. It keeps me energized, reduces caffeine-related jitters, and honestly tastes delicious too. Paired with a high-protein breakfast like my 3-ingredient protein pancakes I feel amazing knowing I’m starting my day doing and feeling my BEST!

Why You’ll Love This Protein Coffee Recipe

This protein coffee is everything you love about your morning latte, but with more staying power. The added protein helps balance blood sugar, keeps you fuller longer, and gives you that extra boost to power through workouts, busy work mornings, or school drop-offs. It’s incredibly creamy, tastes like a coffee shop treat, and takes just minutes to make – no blender required.

protein coffee on a table.

What Kind of Protein Drink or Protein Powder Should I Use?

Choose a protein drink or powder you genuinely love the taste of, because you’ll definitely taste it in your coffee. I love the Aloha protein drinks and powders, or the Remedy Organics protein drinks for added nutritional benefits. I’ll even use a scoop of unflavored collagen powder – Vital Proteins collagen has 18 grams of protein per serving, which is amazing!

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Make it Dairy-Free / Vegan: Use almond milk, coconut milk, soy milk, or any dairy-free protein drink.
  • Hot or Iced: This recipe works beautifully iced – just skip warming the milk and pour over chilled coffee!
  • Mocha Protein Coffee: Add 1 teaspoon cocoa powder or use chocolate protein.
  • Sweeter Version: Add maple syrup, honey, or monk fruit sweetener if you prefer a sweeter coffee!
  • Extra Creamy: Use barista-style non-dairy milk for a creamy, frothy latte texture.
protein coffee on a table with coffee and milk on the side.
No ratings yet

Protein Coffee Recipe (15+ grams protein!)

Wake up to this easy protein coffee recipe that adds at least 15 grams of protein to your morning without sacrificing that rich, cozy coffee flavor you love! It’s creamy, energizing, dairy-free (if you want it to be!), and the perfect way to stay fuller longer. Whether you use a protein drink, protein powder, or collagen, this high-protein coffee is the delicious, healthy upgrade your morning routine needs!
Print Pin Rate
Servings: 1 serving

Ingredients

For the protein drink version:

  • 1 cup vanilla protein drink
  • 1 cup hot or iced coffee

For the protein powder version:

  • 1 cup milk or non-dairy milk
  • 1 scoop vanilla protein powder or collagen powder
  • 1 cup hot or iced coffee

Instructions

For the protein drink version:

  • Pour the protein drink into a milk frother and froth until it’s warm, then pour over your coffee.

For the protein powder version:

  • Add the milk and protein powder to a milk frother and froth until it’s warm, then pour over your coffee.

Notes

Nutrition info is not included for this recipe, because it greatly varies based on what kind of protein drink or protein powder you use.
View Post
By
30 Minutes or Less

Healthy High-Protein Apple Pie Salad

By
overhead image of healthy apple pie salad in a bowl with a drizzle of peanut butter and granola on top.

It’s finally fall! Well kinda. September 1st is the unofficial first day of fall in my book, and I’m celebrating with yet another apple recipe! I kicked things off last week with my healthy gluten-free apple crisp, and am eager to make my apple pie protein smoothie and gluten-free cinnamon sugar apple cake in the coming weeks. Today though, we’re focusing on the EASIEST of all the apple recipes – apple pie salad. And not just any apple pie salad, one with just 5 ingredients, that’s high in protein, and comes together in a few minutes. I absolutely LOVE this recipe when I’m short on time but craving fall flavors. Think fresh crisp apples, cinnamon, honey, and something crunchy like pecans, walnuts, or or granola. It’s the perfect afternoon snack or high-protein dessert!

healthy high protein apple pie salad in a bowl with a fork.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Pie Salad

  • High-Protein, No-Bake Goodness: Just apples, yogurt, and a hint of sweetener – no oven needed!
  • Quick & Nourishing: Ready in under 5 minutes, with over 20 grams of protein to fuel your day.
  • Flavor Meets Function: Satisfy your pie cravings with warm spices and dippable (is that a word??) toppings!

What Makes This Recipe Healthy

  • The apple base adds fiber and antioxidants while keeping it naturally sweet and refreshing.
  • Greek yogurt (or plain coconut yogurt) provides a protein-packed, gut-friendly foundation.
  • A drizzle of honey or maple syrup gives balance without refined sugars.
  • Protein-boosting peanut butter and satisfying nuts round out the nutrition and texture!
overhead image of healthy apple pie salad in a bowl with an apple on the side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of apples should I use?
Crisp, sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp work best – Granny Smith are a bit more tart so they may need extra sweetener to balance its tartness.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Swap in a thick, unsweetened coconut or almond-based yogurt to keep it plant-based and creamy.

How much protein is in this recipe?
Each serving delivers approximately 20 grams of protein, depending on your yogurt choice.

overhead image of healthy apple pie salad in a bowl with a drizzle of peanut butter and granola on top.
No ratings yet

Healthy High-Protein Apple Pie Salad

This high-protein apple pie salad is a creamy, crunchy, no-bake recipe that tastes just like dessert but fuels your body with 20 grams of protein. Made with fresh apples, Greek yogurt, cinnamon, and a drizzle of peanut butter, it’s a quick and healthy snack or post-workout treat. Perfect for when you’re craving apple pie flavor in a light, wholesome, and protein-packed treat!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 serving

Equipment

  • 1 medium bowl or container
  • 1 mandoline or use a knife to thinly slice the apples

Ingredients

  • 1 apple
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt or plain coconut yogurt
  • 1-2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Toppings:

  • Drizzle of peanut butter
  • Chopped walnuts, pecans, or granola

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a bowl and mix until apples are evenly coated in yogurt. Top with a drizzle of peanut butter and chopped nuts or granola.

Notes

Nutrition info is calculated using 1 cup of plain unsweetened Greek yogurt, 1 teaspoon of honey, and 1/2 tablespoon of unsweetened peanut butter. Also, keep in mind that this recipe may seem high in sugar, but that is natural sugar from the apple.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 260kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 4g | Fiber: 5.5g | Sugar: 22g
View Post
By
30 Minutes or Less

High Protein S’mores Dip (30g protein!)

By
graham cracker being dipped into high protein s'mores dip.

It’s no secret I love s’mores. S’mores rice crispy treats were one of the first recipes I ever published, followed shortly by my healthier gluten-free s’mores bars. So when I was deciding on the flavor for this high protein dip recipe, I immediately knew I wanted to make it s’mores flavor! A chocolatey Greek yogurt protein dip with mini marshmallows and chocolate chips swirled in. Great for dipping or. if you’re like me, eating by the spoonful!

overhead image of high protein s'mores dip in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This High Protein S’mores Dip

This high protein s’mores dip is a nostalgic, sweet treat with a nutritious twist. Made with just 4 simple ingredients, it packs over 30 grams of protein per serving thanks to creamy Greek yogurt and rich chocolate protein powder. It’s perfect as a post-workout snack, healthy dessert, or fun dip for fruit, crackers, or cookies.

Key Ingredients

  • Greek Yogurt: Thick, creamy, and protein-packed, Greek yogurt is the base of this dip. It adds richness and tang while delivering gut-friendly probiotics and muscle-building protein.
  • Chocolate Protein Powder: For that classic chocolatey s’mores flavor and a major protein boost. Use your favorite whey or plant-based chocolate protein—just make sure it blends smoothly.
  • Mini Marshmallows: The essential s’mores element! A small amount goes a long way, adding sweetness and fun texture. Swap in sugar-free marshmallows to reduce added sugar.
  • Mini Chocolate Chips: Extra chocolatey goodness in every bite. Use extra dark or sugar-free chips for an even healthier version.
high protein s'mores dip in a bowl with graham crackers and strawberries on the side.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Chill before serving: Let the dip sit in the fridge for 20–30 minutes for the best flavor and texture.
  • Use sugar-free or low-sugar swaps: Opt for sugar-free marshmallows and stevia-sweetened chocolate chips to reduce total sugar without sacrificing taste.
  • Serve with dippers: Apple slices, graham crackers, strawberries, or pretzels make this dip even more fun and satisfying.

More High Protein Recipes You’ll LOVE

graham cracker being dipped into high protein s'mores dip.
No ratings yet

High Protein S’mores Dip (30g protein!)

This high protein s’mores dip is a quick and easy 4-ingredient recipe with over 30 grams of protein per serving! Made with Greek yogurt, chocolate protein powder, mini marshmallows, and chocolate chips – it’s a healthier way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Perfect as a post-workout snack, party dip, or high protein dessert!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 2 servings

Equipment

  • 1 small bowl

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 scoops chocolate protein powder
  • 1/4 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Mix together the Greek yogurt and chocolate protein powder in a bowl, then stir in the mini marshmallows and chocolate chips. Enjoy right away or store in the fridge for up to 2 days!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 310kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 8g | Sugar: 18g
View Post
By
30 Minutes or Less

Chia Seed Protein Pudding (30g protein!)

By
chia seed protein pudding in a glass jar with fresh blueberries and homemade granola on top.

Some of my most requested recipes are for healthy high-protein snacks! And while I have quite a few already – high protein snack boxes, single serve protein cookie, and 5 healthy protein smoothies – I, too, am always looking for more. I actually started making this chia seed protein pudding for my husband who was tired of our same old protein snacks and loved that this tasted like dessert, but in healthier high-protein form!

I love topping my chia pudding with a scoop of peanut butter, a sprinkling of my homemade granola, and whatever fresh or frozen fruit we have on-hand. It’s such a quick and easy grab-and-go protein snack, easily made dairy-free and packed with over 30 grams of protein. OH! And it’s delicious, too. 😉

Why You’ll Love This Chia Protein Pudding

  • High-Protein: With over 30g of protein per serving, it’s a satisfying and energizing option to start your day of get you through that afternoon slump!
  • Minimal Ingredients: You only need 4 (or 5 if you want it a little sweet!) ingredients, most of which you probably already have at home.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Make it once and enjoy it all week! It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
close up image of chia seed protein pudding in a jar with granola and fresh berries on top.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Chia Seeds: These tiny super seeds expand in liquid to create that signature pudding texture. They’re also packed with fiber and omega-3s.
  • Vanilla Protein Powder: Adds a delicious flavor boost and turns this pudding into a protein powerhouse. Unsweetened works best so you can control the sweetness in this recipe!
  • Greek Yogurt (or Dairy-Free Yogurt): Adds creaminess, thickness, a boost of probiotics, and extra protein. Use non-dairy yogurt to keep it dairy-free and vegan!
  • Milk (or Non-Dairy Milk): Any milk will work here – almond, oat, coconut, or regular dairy milk. Choose what fits your dietary preferences.
  • Maple Syrup (Optional): Just a touch adds natural sweetness without overwhelming the flavor.

How to Make Chia Seed Protein Pudding

  1. Add all ingredients to an 8-ounce jar or container and stir to combine.
  2. Secure the lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight).
  3. Before serving, stir again to ensure everything is evenly mixed. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy!
overhead image of chia seed protein pudding with granola and fresh berries on top.

Flavor Variations

  • Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding: Use chocolate protein powder and top with cacao nibs.
  • Very Berry: Stir in a handful of mashed berries or layer with a berry compote.
  • Peanut Butter Banana: Add 1 tablespoon peanut butter and a few banana slices on top. YUM!

Topping Ideas

Top your protein pudding with:

  • Fresh fruit (berries, banana, mango)
  • Nut butters
  • Granola (I topped mine with my homemade granola!)
  • Coconut flakes
  • Cacao nibs or dark chocolate shavings

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Dairy-Free: Use plant-based yogurt and non-dairy milk like almond, oat, or coconut.
  • Make it Vegan: Use dairy-free yogurt and a vegan protein powder.

Storage Instructions

Store chia protein pudding in an airtight jar or container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, and top with fresh ingredients right before eating for best texture and flavor.

chia seed protein pudding in a glass jar with fresh blueberries and homemade granola on top.
No ratings yet

4-Ingredient Chia Seed Protein Pudding

This easy chia seed protein pudding is the perfect make-ahead breakfast or snack packed with over 30 grams of protein per serving! Made with just 4 simple ingredients and ready in minutes, it’s creamy, customizable, and keeps you full for hours. Whether you’re fueling post-workout or starting your morning strong, this chia pudding will quickly become a staple in your healthy routine.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 1 serving

Equipment

  • 1 8 ounce jar

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds
  • 1 scoop (25 grams) vanilla protein powder
  • 1/2 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional)
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or non-dairy yogurt
  • 1/2 cup milk or non-dairy milk

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to an 8-ounce jar or container and stir to combine, then secure with a lid. Place the chia pudding in the fridge for at least 2 hours and up to 3 days, then remove from the fridge and give it another stir before serving. Top with whatever you’d like!

Notes

Nutrition info may vary depending on the brand of ingredients used. The above nutrition info was calculated without the maple syrup and toppings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 295kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 11g | Sugar: 3g
View Post
By