Sargent Choice Test Kitchen: Strawberry Basil Cottage Cheese Crostinis

Sargent Choice Test Kitchen: Strawberry Basil Cottage Cheese Crostinis
March 18, 2026

Why We Chose This Recipe

These strawberry basil cottage cheese crostinis are a fresh, flavorful option that’s perfect for college students looking for a quick and balanced snack. They combine creamy cottage cheese with naturally sweet strawberries and aromatic basil for a unique sweet-savory flavor. We selected this recipe because it requires minimal cooking and simple assembly, making it ideal for dorm or small kitchen spaces. It’s also affordable and customizable, showing how a few fresh ingredients can create a nutrient-rich and visually appealing dish. Enjoy these light and refreshing crostinis as a snack, appetizer, or quick meal!

Recipe adapted from: Munchin with Maddie

Ingredients for Blended Cottage Cheese:

• 16 oz low fat cottage cheese
• ½ tbsp honey or maple syrup
• Zest from ½ lemon 
• Salt and pepper to taste 
• 2 tsp lemon juice 
• ½ tsp Cumin

Ingredients for Strawberry Topping:

• Strawberries (about ¾ lb, finely diced)
• Fresh basil
• Balsamic glaze 
• Flaky sea salt optional

Serve with cracker or crostini bread!

Directions

1. Add all blended cottage cheese ingredients to a food processor and blend until smooth and no clumps remain. 
2. Spread blended cottage cheese onto crackers or crostini with a knife. 
3. Top each crostini with a generous amount of diced strawberries, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, basil and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Dorm Friendly Version

• To make this recipe dorm-friendly, consider these time-saving tips:
  • To make this recipe dorm-friendly, consider these time-saving tips:
    • Use pre-sliced bread or crackers instead of making crostini from scratch
    • Buy pre-sliced strawberries or slice them with a simple knife
    • Use store-bought balsamic glaze or skip it for fewer ingredients
    • Assemble directly on a plate to minimize cleanup

Storage:

• Store components separately when possible. Keep the cottage cheese and sliced strawberries in airtight containers in the refrigerator and assemble just before eating to prevent sogginess.

Tips:

• Balance flavors: Add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for extra sweetness and depth.
• Layer thoughtfully: Spread cottage cheese first, then add strawberries and basil for the best texture and flavor in each bite.

Suggestions

1. Try whole grain bread or crackers for added fiber and longer-lasting energy
2. Swap strawberries for other fruits like peaches, blueberries, or apples depending on what’s in season
3. Add a drizzle of honey or sprinkle of black pepper for extra flavor contrast
4. Use store-brand cottage cheese and bread to keep the recipe budget-friendly
5. Only assemble what you plan to eat to reduce food waste

What We Liked About It

1. 1. • Quick and easy! Simple assembly with minimal cooking required
      • A refreshing mix of sweet, savory, and herby flavors
      • Creamy texture from cottage cheese paired with crunchy crackers
      • Light but still satisfying due to protein content
      • Easy to customize with different fruits and toppings

Nutritional Value

• High in protein: Cottage cheese is rich in protein, which helps keep you full and supports muscle repair and energy
• Rich in micronutrients: Strawberries provide vitamin C for immune support, while basil contains antioxidants that support overall health
• Calcium source: Cottage cheese provides calcium, which is important for bone health
• Balanced snack option: The combination of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber toppings helps provide steady energy
• Optional whole grains: Using whole grain bread adds fiber, which supports digestion and helps you stay full longer

March 25th, 2026 
Inhye Sung, Nutrition Science Student