Cottage Cheese Pesto - High Protein & Low Fat & Nut Free

If you love the fresh flavors of pesto but are looking for a more macro-friendly option that's higher in protein and lower in fat, this is the recipe for you! This recipe omits nuts as an ingredient, swapping with high protein, creamy cottage cheese. It retains a delicious flavor with a slightly thicker consistency than traditional nut-based pesto.

While traditional pesto is high in what is considered healthier fats such as olive oil and walnuts or pine nuts, it's not ideal for those of us looking for high protein, lower fat options. Here's all the ingredients you'll need for this lighter, yet high protein pesto.

Ingredients to Make Cottage Cheese Pesto

Nonfat cottage cheese - Despite being nonfat, the cottage cheese still lends a creamy consistency to this pesto. If you have low-fat cottage cheese on hand or prefer its flavor, it is a suitable swap!

Fresh basil - This is an essential ingredient that gives pesto its distinct, herbaceous flavor and bright green color. I have not tried frozen basil cubes but those might work fine too, just check the ratio.

Garlic - We are of the opinion that garlic makes almost every savory dish taste better. If you're feeling fancy, it might be fun to try roasting the garlic and adding to give an even richer depth of flavor. I have only ever used minced, jarred garlic for this recipe and it tastes wonderful.

Extra virgin olive oil - Not a lot of oil is needed and don't be afraid of a little heart healthy fat.

Parmesan cheese - Fresh grated or shredded parmesan work for this recipe. I typically use the bagged shredded or tub of grated parm from Trader Joe's. Parmesan is a lower fat cheese in comparison to others and has a wonderfully salty, nutty flavor.

Salt - Don't add this until all other ingredients are blended. Salt to taste. You likely won't need as much as you think due to the natural saltiness of the cottage cheese and parmesan.

Pepper - Add just a pinch of pepper to taste.

How Long Does Pesto Last?

Freshly made pesto can last up to four to five days if stored properly in the refrigerator. Cover tightly in a sealed container or with plastic wrap. If left out for any length of time for serving, this could expedite its expiration and also its food safety integrity.

Pesto Serving Suggestions

Pasta is a no-brainer and one of the most popular ways to serve pesto. Consider serving with higher protein, higher fiber pastas made from lentils or chickpeas. Barilla, Banza and Trader Joe's all make tasty renditions of these types of pastas.

Sandwiches are another way to enjoy pesto as a flavorful swap for mayonnaise or mustard. Partner with turkey or chicken, onion and arugula and that's a tasty lunch or dinner.

Sauce for Meat or Fish Toss or top chicken with pesto for a quick Italian meal served on a bed of greens or over a plate of pasta. Salmon also pairs wonderfully with pesto and would be an excellent sauce to top a filet with.

Dip Use pesto as a dip for vegetables and crackers. A perfect appetizer or midday snack.

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