Light Cottage Cheese with Fresh Cherries & Mint

Growing up in Ukraine, cottage cheese, or syr as we call it, was a constant on our breakfast table. It wasn’t the fancy whipped kind you see today, but a simple, rustic cheese with a pleasant curd. My mum made this every other day, often just with a dollop of sour cream and a spoonful of whatever jam was open in the fridge. It was hearty, simple, and the kind of food that fuels your morning. It’s a memory that feels incredibly comforting and real to me.

This recipe is my way of taking that humble breakfast and giving it a fresh, seasonal twist. When summer arrives, the markets are overflowing with the most beautiful, deep-red cherries, and my garden is full of mint. The combination of the sweet, juicy fruit with the cool, bright flavour of mint is just incredible. The aroma of freshly chopped mint instantly reminds me of warm mornings in my grandmother’s garden. It’s a clean, light, and surprisingly sophisticated pairing that transforms simple cottage cheese into something special.

What I love most is how effortlessly healthy this breakfast is. It’s packed with protein, which keeps me feeling full and satisfied until lunchtime, preventing any mid-morning snack cravings. The natural sweetness from the cherries means you only need a tiny drizzle of honey, if any at all. It’s a no-cook meal that comes together in minutes, perfect for those warm days when the thought of turning on the stove is just too much to bear.

Variations

While cherries and mint are a classic summer combination, don’t be afraid to adapt this to what’s in season. In early summer, I always add fresh strawberries or raspberries instead of cherries. A handful of blueberries and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice also works beautifully. For a bit of spice, a tiny pinch of cinnamon or cardamom can add a lovely warmth to the dish. If you don’t have almonds, toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds provide a similar, satisfying crunch.

Serving & storage

I usually eat this just as it is, straight from the bowl. It’s a complete and balanced meal on its own. For a more substantial breakfast, you can serve it alongside a slice of dark, dense rye bread. It also makes a fantastic high-protein afternoon snack when you need a little boost of energy. This dish is best enjoyed immediately after making it, as the mint is at its most fragrant and the cherries are fresh. If you do have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day, but be aware the texture might become a little watery.