Lo-Cal Blueberry Cottage Cheese Mold
A colorful, low-calorie blueberry cottage cheese mold featuring citrus-flavored gelatin layers, fresh blueberries, and creamy cottage cheese, perfect for a light, refreshing appetizer or dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the lemon and lime gelatin packages in boiling water.
- Allow the gelatin to cool slightly.
- Coat the bottom of a 6-cup mold with a layer of gelatin using a pastry brush or spoon.
- Let the gelatin set slightly.
- Arrange 1/2 cup blueberries decoratively in the gelatin layer.
- Chill until the gelatin is firm.
- Pour another thin layer of gelatin over the blueberries and let it set.
- Combine the remaining blueberries, low-fat cottage cheese, and plain yogurt in a bowl and blend thoroughly.
- Spoon the cottage cheese mixture over the set gelatin layers in the mold.
- Chill until the entire mold is firm.
- Unmold the mold onto salad greens and serve with mayonnaise thinned with cranberry juice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fun twist, try using mixed berries instead of just blueberries. If you're looking for a sweeter taste, you can add a bit of honey or agave syrup to the cottage cheese mixture. If you're short on time, consider using store-bought gelatin instead of making it from scratch. This recipe can also be made in individual cups for easier serving.
Serving Suggestions
This colorful dessert makes a refreshing addition to a summer brunch or picnic. Serve it alongside a light salad for a balanced meal, or pair it with a slice of Crowned Carrot Cake for a delightful contrast. For added flavor, drizzle the thinned mayonnaise with a touch of lemon juice before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing the mold, as it may alter the consistency. If you prefer it served warm, gently reheat in a microwave for a few seconds, but be cautious not to melt the gelatin.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lo-Cal Blueberry Cottage Cheese Mold contains roughly 493 calories, with 5g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular gelatin instead of lo-cal?
Yes, you can substitute regular gelatin for the lo-cal versions. However, keep in mind that it may alter the calorie content. Adjust the sweetness accordingly, as regular gelatin may not have the same flavor profile.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, replace the cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative such as tofu or a vegan yogurt. Ensure the gelatin you use is agar-agar, which is derived from seaweed and is suitable for a vegan diet.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for make-ahead preparation. You can assemble the layers a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to keep it covered to maintain freshness until serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).