Description
A refreshing and satisfying low-carb BLT-inspired cottage cheese bowl, combining crispy bacon, fresh romaine lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy cottage cheese, all enhanced with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a touch of black pepper. Perfect for a quick, healthy meal or snack with customizable options like turkey bacon and avocado.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese (Greek yogurt can be used as a thicker alternative)
- 4 slices bacon (Use turkey bacon for a lighter option)
- 2 cups romaine lettuce (Arugula can be substituted for a peppery flavor)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (Heirloom tomatoes work well when in season)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (Use freshly ground for a richer aroma)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (For a different taste, try a vinaigrette instead)
- Optional: sliced avocado for a creamy kick
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: Fry the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until they become crispy. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to cool slightly, then crumble into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the bacon is cooking, chop the romaine lettuce into bite-size pieces and halve the cherry tomatoes to add freshness and vibrant color to your bowl.
- Assemble the Bowl: In a large serving bowl, place a generous scoop of cottage cheese as the base. Layer the crumbled bacon evenly over the cottage cheese, followed by the chopped lettuce and halved cherry tomatoes.
- Season and Dress: Lightly sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the ingredients. Then drizzle the balsamic glaze generously on top to add a tangy sweetness that balances the flavors.
- Toss and Serve: Gently toss all ingredients together just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and the flavors well combined.
- Optional Add-on: For an added creamy texture and flavor, top your bowl with sliced avocado before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute regular bacon with turkey bacon.
- Greek yogurt can replace cottage cheese if a thicker, creamier texture is preferred.
- Try arugula instead of romaine lettuce for a peppery kick.
- Heirloom tomatoes are a great seasonal substitute for cherry tomatoes.
- To keep the freshness intact, toss the salad just before serving.
- Adding avocado is optional but recommended for a nutritional boost and creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: BLT bowl, cottage cheese salad, low carb recipe, bacon lettuce tomato bowl, healthy lunch, quick salad, keto-friendly
