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strawberries

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30 Minutes or Less

Cottage Cheese Smoothie (35g protein!)

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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.
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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!
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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
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30 Minutes or Less

Chocolate Shell Yogurt Cups

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overhead image of chocolate shell yogurt cup with chopped peanuts on top.

I take my snacks very seriously… arguable a little too seriously. I typically rotate between my protein cookies, healthy snickers rice cakes, and 6-ingredient protein muffins – and now I’ll add these chocolate shell yogurt cups to the lineup! What it comes down to for me is needing just a little something delicious to look forward to when that daily afternoon slump hits. A fun and delicious treat is usually just what I need to boost my mood and energy, and to get me through the rest of the day. These chocolate shell yogurt cups pack in a ton of nutrients from chia seeds, flax seeds, and fresh strawberries! They’re also insanely delicious and pretty much taste like dessert.

Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Shell Yogurt Cups

These chocolate shell yogurt cups are the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and healthy! Made with wholesome ingredients like yogurt, chia seeds, peanut butter, and a crisp dark chocolate shell, they’re great for breakfast, a midday snack, or a healthy dessert. With no baking required and only a few minutes of prep, this is an easy treat you’ll want to make on repeat!

overhead image of three chocolate shell yogurt cups.

What Makes This Recipe Healthy?

These yogurt cups are packed with nutritious ingredients! Greek yogurt (or a dairy-free alternative) offers protein and gut-friendly probiotics, while chia seeds and flaxseed meal provide a boost of fiber and omega-3s. The chocolate shell is made with just two ingredients and gives the perfect sweet crunch without a ton of sugar.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Yogurt Options: Use any yogurt you love – plain, vanilla, Greek, or dairy-free options like almond or coconut yogurt all work well.
  • Nut-Free Version: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or tahini to make this completely nut-free.
  • Berry Swap: No strawberries? Try blueberries, raspberries, or sliced banana for a twist.
  • Add a Crunch: Sprinkle in crushed nuts or granola before pouring the chocolate shell on top for extra texture.
chocolate shell yogurt cups with peanuts and flaky salt on top.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of yogurt can I use?
You can use any yogurt you like! Greek yogurt adds extra protein, but dairy-free options like coconut or almond yogurt work great, too. I used Siggi’s plant-based protein yogurt cups and the texture is spot-on!

How long can I keep these yogurt cups in the fridge?
These are best enjoyed right after the chocolate sets, but you can store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The texture may soften slightly over time.

Can I make these nut-free?
Yes! Just swap the peanut butter for a nut-free alternative like sunflower seed butter or tahini.

overhead image of chocolate shell yogurt cup with chopped peanuts on top.
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Chocolate Shell Yogurt Cups (with protein + fiber!)

These chocolate shell yogurt cups are a healthy and delicious no-bake treat made with just 7 simple ingredients! Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, they’re perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. With a creamy yogurt base and crisp chocolate shell, this easy recipe is dairy-free optional and ready in minutes!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chilling Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 1 serving

Ingredients

  • 1 5-ounce container yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • 1 teaspoon flaxseed meal
  • 1 strawberry chopped into small pieces
  • 1 tablespoon peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons chocolate chips
  • 1/2 teaspoon coconut oil

Instructions

  • Remove the lid from the yogurt cup and mix the chia seeds and flaxseed meal into the yogurt.
  • Top the yogurt with the chopped strawberry pieces and peanut butter.
  • Melt together the chocolate chips and coconut oil until completely smooth, then pour the melted chocolate over the yogurt. Transfer the yogurt to the freezer for about 15 minutes or until the chocolate has hardened, then remove and enjoy!

Notes

Nutrition info was calculated using whole milk unsweetened Greek yogurt.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 400kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 23.5g | Fat: 34g | Fiber: 11g | Sugar: 17g
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30 Minutes or Less

Healthy Strawberry Peanut Butter Chocolate Bark

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overhead image of pieces of healthy strawberry peanut butter chocolate bark on parchment paper.

Strawberry season is my FAVE! Not only are these little red fruits totally sweet and utterly delicious, but they’re a sign of warmer weather to come. And that just makes me the happiest! I kicked off strawberry season strong this year with my 6-ingredient gluten-free strawberry shortcake, then kept the party going with healthy strawberry peanut butter cups. And you better believe that as soon as I’m no longer pregnant, I’ll be shaking myself up a skinny strawberry margarita – SO delicious and refreshing!

But the strawberry recipes don’t end there! This strawberry peanut butter chocolate bark is my take on a TikTok recipe that went viral last summer. It’s easy, healthier, perfectly sweet, and made with just 3 simple ingredients. This is also one of those recipes I recommend keeping a batch of in your freezer at all times.. ya know, in case of an emergency. And the amazing thing about this no-bake strawberry bark is you can make it during strawberry season and keep it frozen for months! Well, if it lasts that long. 😉

Why You’ll LOVE This Strawberry Peanut Butter Chocolate Bark

  • Made with just 3 simple ingredients.
  • A no-bake recipe that comes together in minutes!
  • Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free.
  • Low in sugar with wholesome ingredients.
  • Perfect for a make-ahead freezer treat or healthy snack!
three pieces of healthy strawberry peanut butter chocolate bark on top of each other.

What Makes This Recipe Healthy

  • No added refined sugar – this recipe uses the natural sweetness of strawberries instead of relying on a bunch of sugar to sweeten it!
  • Healthy fats from peanut butter, but feel free to use any nut or seed butter you prefer.
  • Whole food ingredients only – no additives, preservatives, or just plain weird ingredients.
  • Vegan and dairy-free when using plant-based chocolate chips!
healthy strawberry peanut butter chocolate bark on parchment paper.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped almonds or puffed quinoa on top before freezing.
  • Want it sweeter? Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup over the strawberries before the peanut butter!
  • Use a silicone spatula to spread the chocolate smoothly and avoid lifting the layers underneath.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. I can’t guarantee it’ll last that long though!
overhead image of pieces of healthy strawberry peanut butter chocolate bark on parchment paper.
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3-Ingredient Healthy Strawberry Peanut Butter Chocolate Bark

This healthy strawberry peanut butter chocolate bark is made with just 3 simple ingredients and takes only minutes to prep! It's a delicious no-bake treat that's vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and low in sugar. Perfect for a freezer-friendly snack or healthy dessert everyone will love!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

  • 1 baking sheet

Ingredients

  • 10 large strawberries thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter
  • 1 cup melted chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then arrange the strawberry slices on the parchment paper in rows to form a large rectangle.
  • Spread the peanut butter on top of the strawberries in an even layer, then pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter. Gently spread the chocolate to form an even layer on top of the peanut butter.
  • Transfer the strawberry bark to the freezer for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate had hardened, then cut the bark into individual pieces and either enjoy right away or store in the freezer for later!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 15g | Sugar: 7g
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30 Minutes or Less

Healthy Oat Breakfast Muffins (3 ways!)

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two healthy breakfast muffins with chocolate chips stacked on top of each other.

Breakfast has quickly become my favorite meal of the day! Between my 3 ingredient protein pancakes, gluten-free bagel bites, and now these healthy breakfast muffins – I now have so many delicious breakfast options to choose from. Over are the days where all I’d eat were boring scrambled eggs, or a bland bowl of cereal! These healthy breakfast muffins are perfectly sweet, totally satisfying, and the perfect fuel to get me through busy mornings. OH, and they’re great for meal prep too!

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Breakfast Muffins

These breakfast muffins are a game-changer for busy mornings. Made in just one bowl with wholesome ingredients, they’re moist, fluffy, and naturally sweetened. Whether you choose Greek yogurt, mashed banana, or applesauce, each variation offers a light and fluffy texture. Plus, they’re gluten-free and customizable with your favorite fruit or mix-ins!

overhead image of healthy oat breakfast muffins with a bite taken out.

What Makes These Muffins Healthy

  • Whole Grains: Oat flour and rolled oats provide fiber and energy to keep you fueled all morning long!
  • Natural Sweeteners: Maple syrup adds sweetness without refined sugars.
  • Healthy Fats: Olive oil contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats (& makes these seed oil-free!).
  • Protein-Rich: Greek yogurt and eggs boost the protein content, keeping you feeling full longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these egg-free?

Yes! Substitute each egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or use a store-bought egg replacer.

How do I store these healthy breakfast muffins?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

You can use mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce as a 1:1 substitute for Greek yogurt. This not only changes the flavor profile but also caters to different dietary needs!

Can I use all-purpose flour?

Absolutely. While oat flour keeps them gluten-free, all-purpose flour can be used if gluten isn’t a concern.

healthy oat breakfast muffins on a white towel with blueberries.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Customize Your Mix-Ins: Feel free to fold in nuts, seeds, or different fruits to suit your taste.
  • Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the muffins tender.
  • Use an Ice Cream Scoop: For evenly sized muffins, use a scoop to portion the batter.
  • Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, they’re ready.
two healthy breakfast muffins with chocolate chips stacked on top of each other.
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Healthy Oat Breakfast Muffins (3 ways!)

These healthy oat breakfast muffins are easy to make, gluten-free, and perfect for busy mornings! Made in one bowl with simple, wholesome ingredients, they come together in just minutes and are packed with flavor. Try all three variations for a nutritious, customizable breakfast the whole family will LOVE!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 12 muffins

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 muffin pan

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt or 1 cup mashed banana, or 1 cup applesauce
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups oat flour
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen fruit I used blueberries, strawberries, and chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375° Fahrenheit and line a muffin tin with muffin liners.
  • In a large bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, milk, olive oil, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract.
  • Add in the oat flour, rolled oats, baking powder, and baking soda and mix until fully combined and the batter is smooth.
  • Fold in any fruit or chocolate chips you're using until it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  • Then, scoop ¼ cup of batter into each muffin liner and bake muffins for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted down the center of a muffin comes out clean. Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool before serving or storing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 180kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 9g | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 6g
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Desserts

6-Ingredient Gluten Free Strawberry Shortcake

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gluten-free strawberry shortcake on a table with whipped cream and fresh strawberries on top.

It’s finally strawberry season and I’m SO excited to celebrate with this incredible gluten-free strawberry shortcake recipe! There’s just something about this warm spring air (after a VERY long winter) that makes me wanna whip out all the fresh fruit recipes I can think up. I kicked berry season off a couple weeks ago with my 5-ingredient triple berry crisp, then kept the party going with my new healthy strawberry peanut butter cups. And now – this absolutely flawless gluten-free strawberry cake! It’s a light and tender cake topped with a single-ingredient homemade whipped cream and ultra sweet strawberries. This is another one of those gluten-free cake recipes everyone (and I mean everyone) will LOVE!

a slice of gluten-free strawberry shortcake on a plate with whipped cream and strawberries on top.

Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Strawberry Shortcake

  • It’s made with just 6 easy-to-find, wholesome ingredients.
  • Fluffy, soft, and sweet with the perfect balance of fresh fruit and homemade whipped cream!
  • Naturally gluten-free, with easy swaps to make it dairy-free or even keto-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I store this gluten-free strawberry shortcake?
Store any leftover cake separately from the whipped cream and strawberries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Once topped, store in the fridge for up to 1 day for best texture.

Can I use a different kind of fruit?
Absolutely! Try blueberries, raspberries, peaches, or a mix of berries depending on the season.

What can I substitute for almond flour?
If you need a nut-free option, try oat flour. Note that texture and flavor may vary slightly.

gluten free strawberry shortcake on a table with whipped cream and strawberries on top.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Be sure to beat the eggs and sugar until they’re superrrr airy and fluffy – this gives the cake its light, sponge-like texture.
  • Let the cake cool completely before adding the whipped cream to prevent it from melting!
  • Make the whipped cream just before serving for the fluffiest, creamiest texture.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or your favorite non-dairy whipped topping in place of heavy whipping cream.
  • Make it Keto: Replace the sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like monk fruit or erythritol.
the inside cut of gluten free strawberry shortcake.

What Makes This the BEST Gluten-Free Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

This gluten-free strawberry shortcake is soft, simple, and super impressive. It’s a breeze to whip up in under an hour and delivers the perfect combination of sweet cake, whipped cream, and fresh fruit – no one will ever believe it’s gluten-free! Whether you’re hosting brunch or celebrating something special, this shortcake has your back.

gluten-free strawberry shortcake on a table with whipped cream and fresh strawberries on top.
5 from 1 vote

6-Ingredient Gluten Free Strawberry Shortcake

This gluten-free strawberry shortcake is the easy, light, and summery dessert you’ll want to make again and again! With just 6 simple ingredients, it’s fluffy, naturally gluten-free, and topped with a generous layer of whipped cream and sweet, juicy strawberries. It's perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any warm-weather gathering, this shortcake is a no-fuss, totally delicious crowd-pleaser!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

  • 2 large bowls
  • 1 small bowl

Ingredients

  • 4 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups almond flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the whipped cream:

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream

For the strawberries

  • 1 cup fresh strawberries sliced
  • 1 tablespoon sugar

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and grease a 6-inch cake pan.
  • Beat together the eggs and sugar with a hand or stand mixer on high speed until pale and thick, about 5 minutes.
  • Add in the almond flour and baking powder. Beat for another 30 seconds to one minute, until batter is just combined.
  • Transfer the batter to your prepared cake pan. Bake the cake 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted down the center of the cake comes out clean.
  • Remove cake from the pan and transfer it to a wire cooling rack to cool. While the cake cools, add the sliced strawberries and a tablespoon of sugar to a bowl, and stir until the strawberries are coated in sugar. Set the strawberries aside while you make the whipped cream.
  • Pour the heavy whipping cream into a large bowl and use a hand or stand mixer to beat the cream until it’s super light and fluffy and stiff peaks have formed (about 5 minutes).
  • Once the cake has completely cooled, top it with the homemade whipped cream then the strawberries. This cake is best served immediately!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 16g | Sugar: 6g
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