Dubai-Inspired Chocolate Pistachio Date Tart – Easy 30-Minute Dessert

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If you’ve spent any time on social media in the past year, you’ve probably seen the Dubai chocolate craze taking over feeds everywhere. Rich chocolate, pistachios, and Middle Eastern-inspired flavors? I’m definitely here for it with this easy pie crust dessert recipe that I updated with my own spin– Dubai-Inspired Chocolate Pistachio Date Tart.  

Instead of recreating the original exactly, I wanted to make it quick and easy (like using pie crust instead of phyllo or toasted kataifi)– and of course, pay tribute to the warm, rich flavors that remind me of my tastings of this trendy chocolate bar and also traditional baklava: naturally sweet dates, crunchy pistachios, fragrant spices like cinnamon. The result is a giant shareable tart that’s easy enough for weeknights yet pretty enough for entertaining.

Simple ingredients, simple steps, simply delicious!

Even better? This chocolate pistachio date tart contains no added sugar when made with sugar-free dark chocolate chips (though regular dark chocolate chips work beautifully too if that’s your preference – you do you)!

As hinted, the filling is tucked between two ready-to-bake pie dough circles from Wick’s Pies, baked until lightly golden, then topped with melted chocolate and extra pistachios for the perfect finishing touch.  Slice it into eight wedges for an easy anytime treat that also can slide in seamlessly as the finishing touch on an elegant meal.

Why I Love Keeping Wick’s Pie Dough Circles in My Freezer

One kitchen shortcut I always keep on hand? Raw, ready-to-bake pie dough circles from Wick’s Pies. I love having these raw dough circles stashed in the freezer because they make both sweet and savory recipes incredibly easy. There’s no measuring, rolling, or worrying about making homemade pie dough from scratch. You don’t have to be a pie expert to create bakery-worthy dishes at a moment’s notice.

Whether I’m whipping up desserts like this tart or savory creations, having ready-to-use pie dough means homemade comfort food is always within reach. Today’s recipe is swee,t but one of my favorite savory go-to recipes is my Rustic Mushroom Bacon Blue Tart with Garlic Thyme Pastry Leaves.

Dessert with Baklava, Dubai Chocolate & Giant Pop Tart Vibes

This easy 30-minute dessert recipe is simple but incredibly flavorful:

  • Dates for natural sweetness
  • Pistachios for crunch and nutty richness
  • Cinnamon for spiced warmth
  • Dark chocolate for indulgence
  • No rolling and wrangling pie dough, just sandwich the filling between pre-formed pie dough circles and crimp.

Once baked, I sprinkle chocolate chips directly onto the hot tart while it’s cooling. The residual heat melts the chocolate into a glossy topping—this is my go-to ganache-inspired hack (no need to dirty another bowl). A quick swipe with a spatula and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios and dessert is served.

Leta me know if you try this simple pie crust dessert idea —  and don’t forget to checkout Wick’s Pies (on Instagram and Facebook, too).

#BakeWithWicks, #WicksPieCreations, #WicksRecipeChallenge

Inspired by the Dubai chocolate trend, this no-added-sugar Chocolate Pistachio Date Tart combines dates, cinnamon, pistachios, and sugar-free dark chocolate inside convenient Wick's pie dough circles for an easy dessert with baklava vibes.
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Dubai-Inspired Chocolate Pistachio Date Tart
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
20 mins
Total Time
30 mins
 

Inspired by the Dubai chocolate trend, this no-added-sugar Chocolate Pistachio Date Tart combines dates, cinnamon, pistachios, and sugar-free dark chocolate inside convenient Wick's pie dough circles for an easy dessert with Middle-eastern baklava + chocolate vibes.

Course: Dessert
Servings: 8 wedges
Calories: 413 kcal
Ingredients
  • 2 8 or 9-inch frozen, thawed pie crust dough circles I used dough from Wick's Pies
  • 6 oz pitted dates see recipe step #1 to pre-soak
  • 2/3 cup raw pistachios divided (see recipe instructions)
  • 2/3 cup sugar free dark chocolate chips divided (see recipe instructions)
  • 2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 egg
  • Water
Instructions
  1. In bowl, cover dates with water and soak for 30-60 minutes until pump and softened. Drain off excess water.
  2. Pre-heat oven to 400F degrees.

  3. To food processor, add all pistachios and pulse until chopped – remove and RESERVE 2 tablespoons for the topping.

  4. With the remaining chopped raw pistachios remaining in food processor, add 3 cup of the chocolate chips, ground cinnamon, and 1-2 tablespoons of water. Pulse for approximately 60-90 seconds until a coarse paste as formed.

  5. Place one dough circle on a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza pan. Top dough with paste mixture, gently spreading and flattening out with spatula or hands to 1-inch of the border. Use a pastry brush to coated exposed dough edge with water.

  6. Add second dough circle on top, keeping in line with the edges of the bottom dough. Use a fork to crimp dough edges together around the entire diameter.

  7. In small bowl, whisk egg with 1 tablespoon water. Use pastry brush to coat the top layer of dough with the egg wash (discard remaining egg mixture). Use fork to lightly puncture the top layer of dough in a few places.
  8. Place on center rack of pre-heated 400F oven and back for 18-20 minutes, until lightly golden brown. Turn off oven.

  9. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with remaining 1/3 cup chocolate chips. Set back in turned off (but still hot) oven for 2-3 minutes to soften the chocolate chips.

  10. Remove from oven and with an off-set spatula, spread melted chocolate chips around to create the “icing.” While still warm, sprinkle top of chocolate with the reserved pistachios.
  11. Let cool 10 minutes before, slicing into 8 wedges.
Recipe Notes

Nobody Asked Chickpeas to Do All This (But Here We Are) – Recipes for Busy Families & Athletes

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If there were an MVP award for pantry staples, chickpeas (aka garbanzo beans) would be carrying home the trophy every year. Seriously, these humble little legumes have no business being this versatile.


One minute they’re blended into creamy hummus. The next they’re adding plant-based protein to pasta, turning into a crunchy snack for the trail, or somehow ending up in a chocolate peanut butter treat that tastes suspiciously like candy.
As an athlete, I’m always looking for foods that check multiple boxes: nutritious, affordable, satisfying, and easy to keep on hand. Chickpeas hit every single one.


They’re packed with fiber, provide plant-based protein, contain important minerals like iron and magnesium, and can be transformed into everything from savory meals to sweet snacks. Plus, a can costs less than most protein bars.
If you’ve got a few cans sitting in your pantry, here are some of my favorite ways to put them to work.


1. Add Chickpeas to Pasta for a Protein Boost

Creamy caramelized onion and mushroom pasta with chickpeas made with a lighter, high-protein cottage cheese Alfredo sauce. This vegetarian comfort food delivers big flavor with just 335 calories and 20g protein per serving.


Pasta night doesn’t have to be carb-only territory. In my Creamy Caramelized Onion Mushroom Pasta with Chickpeas, the chickpeas add texture, staying power, and extra protein to help make the meal more satisfying. Combined with sweet caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms, it’s comfort food that actually keeps you full. Perfect for:

  • Plant-based, vegetarian meals
  • Recovery meals after training
  • Cozy family dinners


2. Turn Chickpeas into a Crunchy Chocolate Treat

This easy 3-ingredient Chocolate Peanut Butter Chickpea Bark is a healthy, lower-sugar treat that’s crunchy, chocolatey, and delicious. Made with roasted chickpeas, sugar-free chocolate, and peanut butter, it's a high-fiber, protein-boosted snack you’ll love.


This might be the recipe that surprises people the most! Crunchy Chocolate Peanut Butter Chickpea Bark combines roasted chickpeas, chocolate, and peanut butter into a sweet treat that’s higher in fiber and lower in sugar than traditional candy options.
It’s proof that healthy snacks don’t have to taste healthy. This healthy dessert is perfect for:

  • Afternoon snack attacks
  • Post-workout treats
  • Healthier dessert cravings


3. Upgrade Your Hummus Game

Turmeric Curry Hummus

Classic hummus is great. But, Golden Turmeric Hummus is even better when you’re looking to shake things up. The turmeric adds a vibrant color and warm flavor while chickpeas create the creamy base everyone loves. Serve it with vegetables, crackers, sandwiches, wraps, or honestly just a spoon.

4. Roasted Chickpeas for the Ultimate Snack

Pumpkin Spice Peanut Butter Roasted Chickpeas – a yummy treat that isn’t so scary for the season. 10g of protein per serving (perfect for a snack), 4g fiber and 198 calories. Easy-peasy to make, using canned chickpeas and I even baked mine in the toaster oven!

If you’re spending money on fancy packaged crunchy snacks, your air fryer would like a word. Roasted chickpeas are one of the easiest, most affordable snacks you can make. They’re crunchy, customizable, portable, and surprisingly satisfying. These are perfect for tossing into gym bags, desk drawers, hiking packs, or your car for emergency snack situations. My favorites include:


5. Build Better Salads

chickpea salad in tomatoes


Chickpeas can instantly transform a side salad into an actual meal. My Chickpea Cucumber Kale Salad served in Tomato Bowls combines protein, fiber, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats into one colorful dish that’s substantial enough for lunch or a light dinner. The result is a salad that actually eats like a meal—not a punishment.  BTW.. this recipe goes back 12+ years in my archives – just proof of how I have long incorporated these in to my active lifestyle.


6. Sneak More Protein into Your Dips

Clean up your snacking game with Cottage Cheese Hummus – a creamy, protein-packed dip without added oil. Serve cold, drizzle with more salsa and enjoy with tortilla chips or veggie sticks. Also delicious heated as a hot dip or hearty ingredient in a burrito bowl, pasta toss or stuffed in


Classic hummus is great. While, Golden Turmeric Hummus was featured at the top of this post, but my Salsa Hummus is also epic and satisfying — just as good when you are looking to shake things up. The turmeric adds a vibrant color and warm flavor while chickpeas create the creamy base everyone loves. Serve it with vegetables, crackers, sandwiches, wraps, or honestly just a spoon.


 Why Athletes Should Keep Chickpeas in the Pantry

Whether you’re training for a marathon, lifting weights, tackling obstacle races, or simply trying to stay active and healthy as you age, chickpeas offer several benefits:

  • Plant-based protein to support recovery
  • Fiber to help keep you full
  • Complex carbohydrates for lasting energy
  • Budget-friendly nutrition
  • Long shelf life in the pantry
  • They’re one of the few foods that can legitimately pull double duty as a meal ingredient, snack food, and dessert component.

Make Ahead Protein Mug Muffin Mix Recipe: Enjoy a Fresh Muffin in 2 Minutes, Anytime.

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Some mornings call for a leisurely homemade breakfast. Other mornings, you just need something quick, satisfying, and packed with protein. That’s exactly why I created this Make-Ahead Protein Mug Muffin Mix.

With one batch of dry mix prepped ahead of time, you can enjoy a warm, fluffy protein muffin whenever the craving strikes. Yeah, single-serve mug muffins are easy – but now you don’t even have to measure out each ingredient, it’s all waiting for you to scoop out and use. To prepare a single muffin, simply add an egg, a little water, and your favorite mashed fruit, then pop it in the microwave along with 1/3 cup of the mix. In about two minutes, you’ll have a hearty muffin that will fill you up and keep you going.

Why You’ll Love This Protein Mug Muffin Mix

Life gets busy, but that doesn’t mean breakfast has to suffer. This recipe bridges the gap between convenience and nutrition by delivering: 

  • Nearly 20 grams of protein per serving
  • A warm, fresh-made muffin in minutes
  • Easy pantry storage for up to 6 months
  • Endless flavor customization options
  • A satisfying breakfast, snack, or healthier dessert

The Secret to a Better Protein Mug Muffin

For this recipe, I used Nourify Plus protein powder from Previnex (use my Previnex discount code to save 15%: THEFITFORK) . I love that this is a plant-based protein supplement , easy to digest, and provides more than just protein. It includes additional nutritional support that helps make every serving a little more nourishing.

I’ve also added chia seeds to the mix for a boost of fiber and texture and coconut milk powder (so as not needing to have fresh milk on had when the muffin mood hits). Combined with oat flour, the result is a muffin that’s moist, hearty, and filling without feeling heavy.

Customize Every Muffin

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Each mug muffin can have a completely different flavor profile depending on what you add.  It does call for a couple tablespoons of mashed fruit to keep the muffin moist (try banana, pumpkin or applesauce) – but along with this you can mix in nuts, chocolate chips, coconut flakes or whatever floats your muffin-munching boat. You can even switch up the protein powder flavor to create endless combinations.

Perfect for Meal Prep

The beauty of this recipe is that the work happens upfront. Simply mix the dry ingredients together and store them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. When you’re ready for breakfast, scoop out a serving, add the wet ingredients, and microwave. No measuring multiple ingredients. No dirty mixing bowls. No waiting for the oven to preheat.

It’s an easy solution for busy weekdays, post-workout snacks, afternoon cravings, or those moments when you want something comforting without spending time in the kitchen.

Nutrition Highlights

While nutrition may vary slightly depending on the protein powder, sweetener, and fruit used. Each prepared serving (made with 1/3 cup of mix, 1 large egg egg and 2 tablespoons mashed banana) provides approximately:

  • 300 calories
  • 19.3g protein
  • 28g carbohydrates
  • 12g fat
Prep this easy Make-Ahead Protein Mug Muffin Mix once and enjoy fresh, fluffy high-protein muffins in just 2 minutes. Perfect for busy breakfasts, snacks, or healthy desserts.
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Cook Time
2 mins
Total Time
2 mins
 

Prep this easy Make-Ahead Protein Mug Muffin Mix once and enjoy fresh, fluffy high-protein muffins in just 2 minutes. Perfect for busy breakfasts, snacks, or healthy desserts.

Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack, workout
Cuisine: high protein, vegetarian
Keyword: microwave, mug muffin, protein powder
Servings: 10 muffins
Calories: 300 kcal
Ingredients
For Mix:
  • 1.66 cups protein powder, any flavor I used Nourify Plus from Previnex
  • 1.25 cup oat flour – can sub another type of flour like: all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, gluten-free baking blend but I do not advise with a heavy flour like almond or coconut
  • 1/4 cup sweetener of choice 1:1 sweetness equivalency
  • ¼ cup chia seeds
  • ¼ cup coconut powder milk powder or any dried milk powder
  • 1.5 tsp baking powder
For making a single muffin you will also need:
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp water
  • 2 tbsp of mashed fruit like banana applesauce or pumpkin
Instructions
  1. To make mix: mix all dry ingredients together in an air-tight container or zip-top bag. Store in a dry pantry and use within 6 months.
  2. To make:
  3. Add whisk egg, water and mashed fruit together in a 12 to16 ounce microwave-safe bowl or mug. Next, use 1/3 cup of Protein Microwave Mug Muffin Mix.
  4. Microwave on High for 1 minute. Then let rest for 1 minute, then microwave for another 1 minute (For a total of 2 minutes or until muffin looks set). Note: it will rise pretty high in the microwave, but will settle down upon cooking.
Recipe Notes

Makes 10 serving – per serving with wet ingredients (egg and 2 tb banana)
300 cal, 28g carb, 12g fat, 19.3g protein

4 Fast & Fit Zucchini Recipes to Fuel Summer Adventures

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When summer rolls around, zucchini seems to be everywhere — overflowing from backyard gardens, filling farmers market stands, and showing up in abundance at grocery stores. While zucchini is available year-round, its peak season is summer. Here in Central Texas, zucchini season typically kicks off in late spring and keeps producing until the first frost.

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering what to do with an armful of zucchini, you’re not alone. Fortunately, this versatile summer squash is one of the easiest vegetables to incorporate into an active, healthy lifestyle.

Why Zucchini Deserves a Spot on Your Plate

Whether you’re training for a race, hitting the gym, staying active after 50 or at any age, or simply trying to eat more vegetables, zucchini offers several nutritional benefits. Plus, you can eat it so many ways, sauteed, steamed, zoodle’d, grated and used in baking recipes, pureed — even eaten raw as a salad ingredient or crudite for dunking into dip.

Low in Calories, High in Volume: One medium zucchini contains only about 30 calories while providing plenty of bulk and satisfaction. Its high water content can help support hydration during the hot summer months, making it a smart addition to meals and snacks.

Rich in Antioxidants: Zucchini contains antioxidants including vitamin C, lutein, and zeaxanthin. These compounds help combat oxidative stress caused by exercise, aging, and everyday environmental factors.

Supports Digestive Health: With both soluble and insoluble fiber, zucchini can help promote healthy digestion and support gut health. Fiber also contributes to fullness, helping you stay satisfied between meals.

Provides Important Nutrients: Zucchini delivers potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, folate, and manganese. Potassium is especially important for active individuals because it helps regulate fluid balance and supports muscle function.

Extremely Versatile: Perhaps zucchini’s greatest superpower is its versatility. It can be roasted, grilled, spiralized, air fried, blended into soups, stuffed, baked into breads, or added to smoothies. Its mild flavor pairs well with almost any cuisine.

4 Delicious Ways to Enjoy Summer Zucchini

If you’re looking for fresh inspiration beyond basic grilled zucchini, these four recipes are among some of my most favorite showcase just how versatile this summer vegetable can be.

Cheddar Zucchini Chips:If you’re craving something crunchy, these air fryer zucchini chips deliver big flavor with fewer carbs than traditional chips. Thin zucchini slices are coated with crushed cheddar cheese crackers (or Parmesan for a lower-carb option) and air fried until crisp and golden. They’re perfect as a snack, game-day appetizer, or side dish served with your favorite healthy dip. Get the recipe: Cheddar Zucchini Chips in Air Fryer

‘Tis the season for zucchini and Hatch green chile – use up your bumper crop of summer produce in this delicious soup that can be served hot or cold. Makes 6 servings, each with 134 cal, 4g fat, 11g net carb and 6g protein.

Hatch Green Chile Zucchini Soup: This creamy zucchini soup proves that comfort food can still be nutritious. Hatch green chiles add a subtle kick while zucchini creates a velvety texture without needing heavy cream. One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Enjoy it warm for a comforting meal or chilled on a hot summer day when turning on the stove sounds less than appealing. Get the recipe: Hatch Green Chile Zucchini Soup

Quick, easy, delicious and nutritious, these cheesy, saucy stuffed zucchini boats will remind you of a mushroom pizza - -but without the crust, so lower calorie, lower carb and gluten-free. A great way to use up a bumper crop of squash!

Mushroom Pizza Stuffed Zucchini Boats: Pizza night gets a healthy makeover with these protein-packed zucchini boats. Filled with pizza sauce, mushrooms, and cottage cheese, they deliver all the flavors you love while adding extra vegetables and protein to your plate. They’re satisfying enough for a main dish but also work well as a hearty side. Get the recipe: Mushroom Pizza Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Green Glow Chilled Zucchini Salad with Lemon Gremolata Dressing: This vibrant zucchini salad is packed with green goodness and fresh summer flavor. Spiralized zucchini serves as the base, while edamame, avocado, pistachios, and other nutrient-rich ingredients add satisfying texture, healthy fats, plant-based protein, and fiber. Finished with a bright lemon gremolata dressing, every bite delivers a refreshing burst of citrus that’s perfect for warm-weather meals, meal prep, or a light post-workout lunch. Get the recipe: Green Glow Chilled Zucchini Salad with Lemon Gremolata Dressing

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7 Healthy Foods That Pull Double Duty: Eat Smarter, Fuel Better

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Healthy eating doesn’t have to mean chasing “superfoods” or buying expensive specialty ingredients. Some of the hardest-working foods are everyday staples that support wellness while also helping energy, recovery, muscle maintenance, hydration, endurance, or healthy aging. Whether you’re training for an event, lifting weights, walking daily, or simply trying to stay active and strong as you age, these are some of my favorite foods pull double duty.

Watermelon for Hydration + Recovery:

Live a healthier, more fulfilling and sweeter life year-round with watermelon. These 10 reasons will motivate you to put watermelon on your plate (or smoothie cup) every month of the year. Plus, learn tips and tricks to cut up , meal prep and serve this popular fruit.

Watermelon isn’t just a refreshing summer snack. Its high water content helps support hydration, especially important for workouts year-round (I’m luck in Texas, we have it nearly year-round.)  Watermelon also naturally contains potassium and citrulline, compounds that may support circulation and exercise recovery. Get more details on how it can support your fitness goals HERE. Double-duty benefit: ✓ Hydration support, ✓ Recovery support, ✓ Natural energy

Try These Watermelon Recipes:

Dates offer Quick Energy + Fiber:

Dates are one of my favorite ingredients in my fit foodie recipes, and also a stand-alone snack. They provide naturally occurring carbohydrates that can help fuel activity while also delivering dietary fiber. Unlike many processed snack options, dates offer quick energy plus nutrients like potassium. I pretty much always have these in my pack during a long Spartan race or hike. Double-duty benefit: ✓ Workout fuel, ✓ Digestive support, ✓ Pantry (and backpack) friendly

Try These Date Recipes:

Eggs Offer Muscle Support + Convenience:

Eggs deliver high-quality protein and important nutrients like choline while being affordable and incredibly versatile. For active adults, especially over 50, protein becomes increasingly important for maintaining muscle. Whether eating a hard-boiled egg for a snack, or making a tasty omlete or egg recipes, you can’t go wrong with the incredible edible egg! Double-duty benefit: ✓ Protein for muscle maintenance, ✓ Fast, practical meal solution,  ✓ Economical protein

Try These Egg Recipes:

Pumpkin Provides Fiber + Nutrition Density:

Pumpkin deserves more credit than just seasonal coffee flavoring. Pumpkin contains fiber plus vitamin A precursors and works beautifully in both sweet and savory recipes. Plus, it can help add volume and texture while boosting nutrition. Double-duty benefit: ✓ Fiber support, ✓ Nutrient boost, ✓ Pantry friendly (load up in the fall!)

Try These Pumpkin Recipes:

Beans Packed with Veggie Protein + Complex Carbs:

Italian Bean and Lentil Soup in a Jar Mix

Beans and legumes are one of the most underrated foods for active lifestyles. They bring plant protein together with fiber-rich carbohydrates, creating longer-lasting energy and satisfying meals. They’re also budget-friendly and pantry-friendly. Double-duty benefit: ✓ Energy support, ✓ Satiety, fiber and muscle support, ✓ Pantry friendly and cheap

Try These Bean Recipes:

Salmon Wins With Quality Protein + Healthy Fats:

Orange Cranberry Sheet Pan Salmon prepped and ready to be cooked

Fatty fish like Salmon earns a place on the list because it supports multiple wellness goals at once, including muscle management and heat and brain support. It earns my thumbs up for healthy aging. Salmon provides protein for recovery alongside omega-3 fats that support overall health. Plus, it’s quick and convenient to cook, while also feeling fancy! Double-duty benefit: ✓ Recovery nutrition, ✓ Heart and brain support, ✓ Versatile

Try These Salmon Recipes:

Cottage Cheese Boosts Protein + Surprisingly Versatile:

Cottage cheese is the OG of fit foods, so nutrient dense with calcium, b12, phosporus and 25g protein in a cup. Check out these 24 crave-worthy, protein-packed, completely elevated cottage cheese recipes to fuel your active lifestyle - from cottage cheese queso, pizza crusts and stuffed zucchini to cheesecake cups, crepes, and waffles. Great healthy meal inspo for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks / treats!

Cottage cheese has made a major comeback for good reason. It adds protein and creaminess while fitting into sweet or savory meals. Literally, I’ve made dozens and dozens of recipes with cottage cheese as a boosting ingredient (here is a round up of two dozen)! If you choose a lower-fat cottage cheese variety, it’s a great way to supplement recipes with lean protein and other nutrients like calcium.. Double Duty Benefit: ✓ Muscle-supporting protein, ✓ Easy meal upgrade, ✓ Calcium-packed

Try These Cottage Cheese Recipes:

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