This bowl is one of my go-to meals when I want something light but super flavorful. It’s got that perfect balance—cool, creamy cottage cheese, silky smoked salmon, crisp cucumbers, a pop of red onion, and creamy avocado. Everything works together, and it comes together in just a few minutes.
Why I Love This Recipe
This one just feels elevated without being fussy. It’s basically my “brunch energy” meal that works any time of day. A little salty, a little creamy, a little crunchy—total flavor harmony.
Here’s why this bowl’s on repeat at my house:
- 🐟 Smoked salmon = instant flavor upgrade
- 🥑 Avocado makes it creamy and rich
- 🧅 Red onion gives it the perfect bite
- ❄️ Cold, fresh, and doesn’t need cooking
- 💪 Packed with protein and healthy fats
⏱️ Time & Servings
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 1 hearty bowl (can easily double or triple)
📊 Macros (per serving)
- Calories: 390
- Protein: 29g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 4g
🔬 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Cottage cheese is high in casein protein, which digests slowly and keeps you full.
- Smoked salmon is rich in omega-3s and adds umami without cooking.
- Avocado adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats for creaminess.
- Raw red onion and cucumber give crunch and freshness that balance the soft textures.
Ingredients
- ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 2 oz smoked salmon, thin slices
- ¼ avocado, sliced
- ¼ cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp capers (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh dill (or sub with parsley)
- 1 lemon wedge
- Pinch of black pepper
🥣 How to Make It
1. Add Cottage Cheese to Bowl
Scoop the cottage cheese into one side of your serving bowl.
2. Add Smoked Salmon
Layer the smoked salmon slices neatly next to the cottage cheese.
3. Add Veggies and Avocado
Tuck the cucumber, avocado slices, and red onion in around the bowl.
4. Garnish and Season
Top with capers, dill, a lemon wedge, and a pinch of black pepper.
🍽️ What to Serve With
This bowl stands on its own but goes great with:
- 🥖 Whole grain toast or crackers
- 🥬 Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- 🍳 Soft-boiled egg on the side
- 🥒 Pickles or pickled onions for more tang
📅 Meal Plan Ideas
- Monday Lunch: Eat cold and fresh, as-is
- Tuesday Brunch: Add a soft-boiled egg on top
- Wednesday Dinner: Serve with warm grain like farro or quinoa
- Thursday On-the-Go: Wrap in a whole wheat tortilla
- Friday Reset: Top with microgreens and call it a fancy nourish bowl
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using watery cottage cheese — Go for thicker, small curd varieties
- Skipping seasoning — Black pepper, lemon, and dill make a big difference
- Too much red onion — A little goes a long way
- Not balancing textures — Creamy + crunchy = flavor success
❓ FAQ
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes—just store the ingredients separately and assemble when ready.
Is this bowl gluten-free?
Totally! Just make sure your smoked salmon is certified GF if you’re sensitive.
What can I swap for cottage cheese?
Greek yogurt or whipped ricotta works, but you’ll miss that curdy texture.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Try a dairy-free cottage cheese alternative or more avocado + hummus.
Does it work with hot smoked salmon?
Yep! It’ll be flakier and a little smokier, but still delicious.
✨ Enjoy!
This Smoked Salmon Cottage Cheese Bowl is fresh, filling, and so easy to throw together. It’s one of those meals that feels fancy but takes less than 10 minutes. Definitely a staple for breakfast, lunch, or a lazy dinner. 🐟🥣💛