If you like regular cheese on toast, you’ll love this healthier, high-protein version. It’s quick, easy and absolutely delicious.
I completely missed the viral cottage cheese toast trend on both Instagram and TikTok but I did eventually get on board thanks to Em the Nutritionist. Apparently cottage cheese toast has become so popular that cottage cheese sales have increased by 65% since 2021. Growing up, I remember cottage cheese being something you only really ate if you were on a diet but in the 2020s it’s definitely got superfood status.
We’ve been eating these toasts since I started my healthy eating efforts last September and they’re just just the ticket whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a light lunch or a lazy dinner. They’re satisfying, packed with protein, full of flavour and proof that healthy food can be simple and delicious.
I’ve stayed pretty true to Em’s original recipe, with one small tweak. Instead of fresh chilli, I use jarred jalapeños simply because they’re easier to handle and always in my fridge. If spice isn’t your thing, marinated red peppers and sweeter fresh (like red and yellow) peppers work beautifully too.
We always have a stash of frozen bread in the freezer and using frozen bread then toasting it actually increases the “resistant starch.” This helps reduce the bread’s glycemic index, slows blood sugar spikes, and acts as fibre for gut health. Plus, freezing bread keeps it fresh for months, so it’s a win-win! Of course, fresh bread goes great in this recipe too!
For best results, lightly toast the bread first (especially if using frozen) before topping it with the cottage cheese mix, then cut the cheese-topped toast in half before putting it in the air fryer. It makes it so much easier to serve and ensures that perfect melty texture.
These cottage cheese toasts may look simple but they deliver big flavour. The cheddar gives you that proper cheese-on-toast satisfaction, the jalapeños add a kick and the herbs bring freshness and balance. Baking or air-frying creates a melty, pizza-like texture that’s honestly hard to beat.
Each portion packs around 18g of protein, making this a filling, high-protein meal or snack that still feels indulgent. This recipe is proof that healthy cheese on toast really can taste amazing. More (cottage) cheese, please!
Are you team spicy or team mild? What’s your favourite toastie combo?
Serves 2 generously
Ingredients
2 large (or 3-4 small) slices sourdough bread
4 heaped tablespoons cottage cheese (full or low fat)
50g cheddar, grated
1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
1/2 green capsicum, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh coriander or parsley, finely chopped
1 teaspoon of sliced jalapenos from a jar, chopped (add more or less depending on your heat tolerance)
How to
- Mix all the ingredients together in a medium bowl and season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Lightly toast the bread, if desired – this is especially good if you’re using frozen bread.
- Generously place the topping on to the bread slices and carefully cut in half.
- Airfry at 200C for 8 minutes or pop into the oven at 200C for 10-12 minutes.
