Serves 6–8
🔢 Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: ~160
- Protein: 12–15g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fat: 4g
🛒 Ingredients
- 2 (11 oz) cans mandarin orange segments, drained
- 1 ½ cups low-fat or nonfat cottage cheese (for creamy protein)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (0–2%)
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar or preferred sweetener (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional for extra sweetness & moisture)
- ½ cup mini marshmallows (optional — traditional but adds carbs)
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional for crunch and healthy fat)
👩🍳 Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, blend cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Use a blender or food processor for extra smoothness if preferred.
- Gently fold in mandarin orange segments, crushed pineapple (if using), mini marshmallows, and nuts.
- Chill for at least 1 hour before serving. The flavors meld and it gets fluffier as it rests.
💪 Why This Version Is High-Protein
- Cottage cheese and Greek yogurt provide a double dose of complete protein.
- Using low-fat or nonfat dairy keeps fat moderate without sacrificing creaminess.
- Optional nuts add texture plus healthy fats.
🔥 Variations & Tips
- Lower sugar: Use a sugar substitute or reduce marshmallows.
- Extra protein: Add 1 scoop vanilla whey isolate to the cottage cheese mixture (blend well).
- Dairy-free: Substitute with high-protein coconut yogurt + dairy-free cream cheese.
- Crunchy: Mix in toasted coconut flakes or seeds.
