Remember that time you craved something that was both a dessert and a breakfast? This creamy pineapple chia pudding with cottage cheese is like a tropical vacation in a bowl—refreshing, indulgent, yet oddly wholesome. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want on a lazy Sunday morning, or maybe even a midweek pick-me-up when you’re dreaming of sun-soaked beaches.
Steps
- Combine 2 tablespoons of chia seeds with 1/2 cup of unsweetened pineapple juice in each of two small bowls or jars. Stir the mixture well to ensure the seeds are evenly distributed.
- After letting the mixture sit for about 30 minutes, stir it again to prevent clumping. Cover the bowls or jars and place them in the refrigerator to chill overnight.
- Before serving, top each bowl or jar with 1/2 cup of cottage cheese and 1/2 cup of diced fresh pineapple for a nutritious breakfast.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 cup pineapple juice, unsweetened
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 cup cottage cheese, 2% (such as Good Culture)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 590 kcal | Carbohydrates: 76 g | Protein: 33 g | Fat: 17 g | Saturated Fat: 3 g | Cholesterol: 20 mg | Sodium: 467 mg | Fiber: 23 g | Sugar: 43 g
FAQ
- What are the health benefits of chia pudding?
- Chia pudding is a nutritious option, as two tablespoons of chia seeds provide four grams of protein, 11 grams of fiber, and are rich in omega-3s and calcium. When you add half a cup of cottage cheese, you increase the protein content by an additional 14 grams.
- Can I use a different liquid instead of pineapple juice for the chia pudding?
- Yes, you can substitute pineapple juice with almond milk, lite coconut milk, or regular milk if you prefer a different flavor profile.
- Is it necessary to add sweetener to the chia pudding?
- No additional sweetener is required because the pineapple juice naturally sweetens the pudding.
- How long can I store pineapple chia pudding in the refrigerator?
- Pineapple chia pudding is ideal for meal prepping and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days.
- What can I use if I don’t have fresh pineapple?
- If fresh pineapple is unavailable, you can top the pudding with strawberries or mango as an alternative.
Tips
- To enhance the tropical flavor of the pudding, consider adding some shredded coconut to the mixture for a piña colada twist.
- When preparing chia pudding, use a ratio of two tablespoons of chia seeds to half a cup of liquid for the best consistency.
- If fresh pineapple isn’t available, you can substitute it with strawberries or mango for a different yet delicious topping.
- This recipe is great for meal prepping, as it can be stored in the fridge for up to four days, allowing you to prepare breakfast in advance for the week.
Equipment
- Small Mason Jars or Containers with Lids: Useful for dividing and storing the chia pudding in the fridge.
- Measuring Spoons: For accurately measuring the chia seeds and other ingredients.
- Measuring Cups: To measure the pineapple juice or any other liquid you might use.
