More Cottage Cheese Please!

I love cottage cheese.

Like most dairy products, it's a rich source of vitamins and minerals such as calcium, and vitamins A and D. It contains a nice balance of protein and carbs, making it a great snack after a hard workout. Just be weary of the fat content. I typically purchase 2% which has all of the flavor as those with more fat, but with only 90 calories per 1/2 cup.

My favorite thing about cottage cheese is its versatility. Since its flavor is neutral, without the sweetness of most yogurts, it can be eaten for breakfast, served with fruit, or used in savory recipes.

I recently began experimenting with cottage cheese to find unusual ways to use this nutrient dense food. My favorite concoction so far is a cottage cheese dip.

Cottage Cheese Dip Concoction

You will need:

• One small container (2 cups) of cottage cheese (preferrably 2%)
• One packet of ranch dip seasoning
• One cup of loose baby spinach, roughly chopped

To make said concoction:

1. Process cottage cheese in a food processor or magic bullet until relatively smooth
2. Add ranch flavor packet and process to blend
3. Add spinach and blend until mixed, chopped, and product is smooth and items are evenly distributed
4. Pour into a bowl and serve with carrots, celery, red pepper slices, pretzels, tortilla chips, etc.

Other suggestions for using cottage cheese:

• Place 1/2 cup in a bowl and top with 1 T of your favorite jam or jelly, mix gently to combine and enjoy.
• Serve with mandarin oranges or pineapple chunks for a tropical treat.
  
• Experiment by mixing in your favorite seasonings/herbs/sauces to make a tasty dip.
  
• Use as a topping for baked potatoes instead of sour cream. Very tasty!
• Blend until smooth and use in place of sour cream on black bean soup or chili.
  

Do you like cottage cheese?
Do you have any other recipes/suggestions/uses for cottage cheese?
Has anyone made homemade cottage cheese?