Light Cannoli Dip
Light Cannoli Dip
Fans of cannoli will love this light treat. This Light Cannoli Dip is easy to make and is fluffy and delicious. It comes together in only 5 minutes with only 5 pantry ingredients. Made with Daisy Cottage Cheese as the base, it has less than half the calories, fat, and carbs of most cannoli dips.
It pairs well with your favorite fresh fruit, waffle cones, graham crackers, and cookies. It is perfect for any occasion from parties to holidays to after-school snacks.
Mix it up! The dip is easily customizable. You can mix-up the flavor profile by using other zests and extracts and nuts like pistachios. You can also add cinnamon and cranberries for the holidays. For a slightly tangier dip, you can add a tablespoon of Daisy Sour Cream. This Light Cannoli Dip is easily doubled and can be made ahead of time.
Light Cannoli Dip Ingredients
- Daisy Cottage Cheese (3/4 cup): Provides the creamy base of the dip and allows the dip to be lighter than traditional cannoli dip.
- Powdered Sugar (1 tablespoon): Adds a tiny bit of sweetness to the dip.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
- Fresh Orange Zest (1 teaspoon): Highly flavorful, it adds a burst of citrusy goodness to the dip without adding liquid to the dip.
- Mini Chocolate Chips (2 teaspoons): Brings a touch of chocolaty sweetness and texture to the dip.
Substitutions, Variations, and Tips
- Lime zest or lemon zest may be substituted for orange for a similar citrusy flavor.
- Almond extract may be used in place of vanilla extract.
- A dash of cinnamon and nutmeg may be added for a holiday twist.
- Chopped nuts, seeds, or chopped dried fruit may be added in place of the chocolate chips.
- Chocolate cannoli dip? Yes, please! To make the dip chocolate flavored, add ½ teaspoon of unsweetened cocoa powder. Or for chocolate hazelnut twist, add a teaspoon of chocolate hazelnut spread.
- White chocolate or butterscotch chips may be used in place of chocolate chips…just make sure you grab the mini version.
- Finely chopped chocolate bar may be used in place of the chocolate
- For a tangy twist, try adding a tablespoon of Daisy Sour Cream.
- This dip can be made ahead of time, or even the day before, and is easily doubled or tripled.
- Best if chilled for 30 minutes before serving.
- Light cannoli dip may be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
How to Make Light Cannoli Dip
- Process cottage cheese in food processor or blender until completely smooth (about 1 minute). Transfer to bowl.
- Gently fold in the remaining ingredients.
- Garnish with additional mini chocolate chips, if desired. Serve with your favorite dippers.
Honey Walnut Cottage Cheese Spread
Honey-Walnut Cottage Cheese Spread
Looking for a fall twist on bagel spreads? Try making your own with Daisy Cottage Cheese. Not only is it easily customizable, it is also two-thirds lower in fat than cream cheese. Making your own spread is a snap with only a few ingredients.
Easily customizable, you can pick your favorite flavors and add to the protein packed creamy goodness of the cottage cheese. The flavor combos are endless.
Honey-Walnut Cottage Cheese Spread Ingredients
- Daisy Cottage Cheese (1 cup): The cottage cheese provides the protein-packed base of the spread.
- Honey (1 tablespoon): Adds a tiny bit of sweetness.
- Light Brown Sugar (1 tablespoon): Adds a tiny bit of sweetness with a slight caramel flavor.
- Cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon): Rich and warm, this spice tastes like fall. It adds flavor to the spread.
- Chopped Walnuts (3 tablespoons): Adds flavor and texture to the spread.
Substitutions, Variations, and Tips
- Try adding other additions such as a dash of nutmeg or ginger.
- Agave, corn syrup, or artificial sweetener may be used in place of honey.
- Dark brown sugar may be used in place of light brown sugar.
- Pecans or other nuts may be used in place of walnuts.
- While perfect for spreading on bagels, toast, or crackers, you can also enjoy it as a fruit or cookie dip.
How to Make Honey-Walnut Cottage Cheese Spread
- Process cottage cheese, honey, brown sugar, and cinnamon in food processor until smooth (about 1 minute).
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Fold in walnuts. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Garnish with additional honey, cinnamon, and walnuts, if desired. Enjoy on bagels, toast, or crackers. Refrigerate leftovers.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Balls
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Balls
Chocolate chip cookies without baking! These delicious treats combine the sweet, indulgent taste of cookie dough with the convenience of a quick grab-and-go snack. Perfect for after-school or any-time treats, these cookie dough balls are fun to make for kids and adults alike. Easily customizable, you can add your favorite mix-ins like nuts, dried fruits, coconut, or raisins.
These sweet treats get a protein boost from the creamy Daisy Cottage Cheese. The cottage cheese adds moisture and texture to the dough. It keeps the rich taste and is much lower in fat than butter or cream cheese.
Made with only a few simple ingredients, these chocolate chip cookie dough balls have 33% less calories and triple the protein than a slice of traditional chocolate chip cookie dough. Plus, they have less carbs! Made with a few simple, high-quality ingredients, you can whip up these treats in 5 minutes.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ball Ingredients
- Daisy Cottage Cheese (1/2 cup): Enhances the texture, flavor, and nutritional profile of the cookie dough balls.
- Maple Syrup (1 1/2 tablespoons): With a rich, complex flavor like caramel, it adds a natural sweetness to the cookie dough.
- Vanilla Extract (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor of desserts.
- Almond Flour (3/4 cup): Gluten-free, low-carb, nutrient-dense, with a sweet, nutty flavor, it adds a tender crumb to the cookie dough balls.
- Sugar-Free Chocolate Chips (1/4 cup): A terrific way to add the chocolaty flavor you love without adding extra sugar.
Substitutions, Variations, and Tips
- Honey, agave, corn syrup or molasses may be used in place of maple syrup, with slightly different flavor profiles.
- All-purpose flour, coconut flour or oat flour may be used in place of almond flour.
- Regular chocolate chips may be used in place of sugar-free chips.
- Other mix-ins may be used in place of chocolate chips, such as nut, coconut, or dried fruit.
- You can add a teaspoon of unsweetened cocoa powder for more chocolaty goodness.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Balls
- Add cottage cheese, maple syrup, and vanilla to food processor. Process 1 minute or until completely smooth. Pour into bowl.
- Stir in almond flour until evenly combined. Fold in chocolate chips. Roll into 6 individual balls.
- Refrigerate and chill for 30 minutes for best taste or eat immediately.
Cheesy Fettucine Alfredo
Cheesy Fettucine Alfredo
This Cheesy Fettuccine Alfredo is perfect for those nights when you are craving a rich and creamy pasta but without the guilt. Traditional fettuccine alfredo is high in calories, fat, and cholesterol due to the butter and heavy cream. Using cottage cheese as the base of the alfredo lightens up the dish significantly without sacrificing the creaminess, with 32% less calories, 64% less fat and 59% less cholesterol than traditional fettuccine alfredo. The cottage cheese also makes the recipe more filling due to the added protein.
This quick and easy pasta is easily customizable. On the table in less than 30 minutes, making this a perfect weeknight dinner. Adding veggies, grilled chicken, or other proteins will make it even heartier, eliminating the need for sides.
Cheesy Fettucine Alfredo Ingredients
- Dry Fettuccine (8 ounces): Found in most pantries, dried pasta is economical and great for saucy dishes.
- Daisy Cottage Cheese (1/2 cup): A protein powerhouse, the cottage cheese adds a creamy and slightly salty taste to the easy pasta sauce. It contains a type of protein called casein protein, which absorbs slowly into the body, helping you stay full longer. It replaces the heavy cream and butter in traditional alfredo, making the recipe lower in calories, fat, and cholesterol.
- Milk (1 cup): Full fat milk will make a creamier base for the sauce, but low-fat or skim milk will also work in this recipe. Feel free to use whatever you have on hand. The milk adds richness to the sauce and helps thin it out.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): It thickens the sauce and helps make it smooth and silky.
- Minced Garlic (1/2 teaspoon): Adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, freshly grated): Adds rich flavor and makes the sauce thick and creamy.
- Freshly Cracked Black Pepper (1/8 teaspoon): Adds a fresh, bright flavor to the sauce.
- Melted Butter (1 tablespoon): Helps accentuate the flavors of the cheese and seasoning.
Substitutions, Variations, and Tips
- Other dried pasta may be used in place of the fettuccine, including gluten-free pasta.
- Coconut milk, soy, or almond milk may be used in place of regular milk, giving the sauce a tasty twist.
- Crushed red pepper flakes may be added for a punch of heat.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese is best as it contains no additives and melts better than pre-grated cheese that often contains non-clumping agents and additives.
- Try adding your favorite protein for a heartier meal, such as grilled chicken, ground beef, or Italian sausage.
- Add some veggies. Throw in any pre-cooked veggies that you like.
- Try topping with some fresh herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley for a burst of freshness.
How to Make Cheesy Fettucine Alfredo
- Cook pasta according to package directions for the shortest time noted.
- Combine the remaining ingredients in a blender. Blend until smooth.
- Heat sauce over medium-low heat for 4-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add drained pasta to sauce. Remove from heat and let pasta stand for 2 minutes before serving.
Daisy Quiche
Daisy Quiche
Ideal for weeknight dinners, weekend brunch, entertaining, or for holiday gatherings, this Daisy Quiche will really hit the spot. Warm and comforting, this quiche comes together in about 30 minutes. Pop it into the oven to bake while you visit or prep other dishes.
The perfect balance of savory, smoky, cheesy, creamy goodness in this quiche is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is easily doubled. It can also be made ahead so it is ready to go whenever you need a premade brunch recipe.
The sour cream in the filling adds a delicate creamy tartness to the quiche, while a dollop on top will add a touch of creamy freshness. Easily customizable to your liking, you can mix and match your veggies or add more depending on your taste.
Daisy Quiche Ingredients
- Unbaked Pie Crust (9”): The shell of the quiche that holds the filling.
- Finely Diced Red Onion (1/3 cup): Adds a pop of color and a burst of bold, peppery flavor.
- Finely Diced Bell Peppers (3 tablespoons): Sweet and mild, they add color and a burst of mild peppery freshness.
- Diced Mushrooms (1/2 cup): Provides an earthy, woodsy flavor and meaty texture.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Used for sautéing the vegetables, it adds flavor to the vegetables.
- Large Eggs (2): One of the main ingredients, the eggs bind the other ingredients together and help thicken the quiche.
- Daisy Sour Cream (1 cup): Adds richness and creaminess to the quiche, while also adding a slightly tangy component that balances the savory flavors.
- Crisp, Crumbled Bacon (5 strips): Adds a hint of smoky goodness, texture, and color.
- Shredded Swiss Cheese (1 ½ cups): Adds a complex mild flavor that is a mix of salty, sweet, and nutty, and is the first of the two cheesy components.
- Shredded Mild Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Distinct flavor that is slightly tangy, it helps balance the Swiss cheese and is the second of the two cheese components.
Substitutions, Variations, and Tips
- When choosing mushrooms, look for ones that are firm and dry. Both white and brown mushrooms work well in this recipe. Brown mushrooms have a deeper, earthier flavor than white mushrooms which become more pronounced when cooked.
- Any color of bell peppers may be used. Green bell peppers are slightly bitter with a bite, while red, orange, and yellow bell peppers are sweeter, milder, and mellower.
- White or yellow onions may be used in place of red onions. Yellow and white onions are a bit sweeter and have less bite than red onions.
- Any type of mushroom may be used in place of brown or white mushrooms.
- Sautéing the mushrooms is a must. Mushrooms are full of moisture. Sautéing allows the moisture to be released and allows the flavors to intensify.
- Other cheese may be used in place of the Swiss. Good choices are gruyere, fontina or Jarlsberg.
- Sharp cheddar may be used in place of mild cheddar.
- Pancetta may be used in place of bacon for a similar smoky flavor.
- Fully cooked quiche freezes beautifully. Allow quiche to cool completely in refrigerator for several hours until firm. Wrap in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Frozen quiche may be baked directly from freezer. Unwrap and back at 350°F until fully hot.
- Quiche will last for 3 days in the refrigerator. Individual slices of quiche may be reheated, covered with foil, in the oven at 325°F for 8-15 minutes.
- Reheating in the microwave is less than ideal as it will make the quiche rubbery.
- You may make the filling and crust ahead of time. Store the filling covered in the refrigerator overnight. Store the prebaked crust at room temperature until ready to use. When ready to cook, assemble and bake.
- Let the quiche cool for at least 10 minutes or up to several hours to make slicing easier. Quiche may be enjoyed piping hot or served at room temperature.
How to Make Daisy Quiche
- Poke holes inside of unbaked pie crust with fork. Line inside with foil and bake at 450°F for 8 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes or until crust is set and dry. Remove and reduce the oven to 350°F.
- Sauté onions, peppers, and mushrooms in butter until softened.
- Combine vegetables with remaining ingredients. Pour into baked pie crust.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes or until center is set. Let stand for at least 10 minutes before cutting.
- Top each slice with a dollop of Daisy if desired.
Creamy Mushroom One-Pan Pasta
Creamy Mushroom One-Pan Pasta
Quick and easy, this Creamy Mushroom One-Pan Pasta is not only delicious, it’s also ready in less than 30 minutes and is a cinch to clean up since it’s made in one pot, allowing the ingredients to marry into a rich, bold flavor.
Pasta is a weeknight go-to comfort food. When combined with the warmth and earthiness of mushrooms, it becomes a recipe that’s cozy, rich, creamy, and indulgent. The mushrooms add a deep and savory flavor with a meaty texture. The pasta adds a slightly chewy, tender bite, while the cottage cheese adds a creamy richness and boost of protein.
Creamy Mushroom Pasta Ingredients
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and flavor to the garlic and mushrooms.
- Minced Garlic (4 teaspoons): Pairs perfectly with the mushrooms, it adds depth of flavor to the pasta.
- Baby Portabella Mushrooms (8 ounces, sliced): More savory than white button mushrooms with a deeper, earthier flavor, which becomes pronounced when sautéed in the butter and garlic.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): The classic combination of seasonings, they enhance the flavor of savory dishes.
- Dry Fettuccine (8 ounces): Found in most pantries, dried pasta is economical and great for saucy dishes. Any string-like pasta will work for this recipe.
- Vegetable Stock (3 ½ cups): Enhances the flavor of the pasta and adds another layer of flavor.
- Daisy Cottage Cheese (1 cup, blended): A protein powerhouse, the cottage cheese adds a creamy and slightly salty taste to the easy sauce. It contains a type of protein called casein protein, which absorbs slowly into the body, helping you stay full longer.
- Parmesan Cheese (1 teaspoon, finely shredded): Adds rich fishing touch to the pasta.
Substitutions, Variations, and Tips
- Gluten-free pasta may be used in place of penne.
- Crushed red pepper flakes may be added for a punch of heat.
- Additional parmesan cheese may be added for a richer flavor and a classic finishing touch.
- Try topping with some fresh herbs, such as thyme or parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Try adding your favorite protein for a heartier meal, such as grilled chicken, ground beef, or Italian sausage.
- Add some veggies. Throw in any pre-cooked veggies that you like.
- Great for leftovers! To reheat, add a few drops of water to help revive the sauce. Cover and microwave in short intervals, stirring between intervals, until warm (about 1-2 minutes).
How to Make Creamy Mushroom Pasta
- Add butter and garlic to deep pan. Sauté 1 minute over medium heat. Add mushrooms, salt, and pepper. Continue to sauté until mushrooms have softened, browned, and moisture has evaporated.
- Add dry fettuccini and broth. Stir to combine and cover. Turn heat up to medium-high and allow broth to boil. Stir pasta, replace lid, and turn heat down to medium-low. Simmer 12-14 minutes, stirring occasionally (there will be a little liquid left). Remove from heat.
- Add blended cottage cheese and stir to combine. Add parmesan and stir until melted.
