Hoda Kotb’s Deliciously Simple Two-Ingredient Snack: A Guide & Variations

Who doesn’t love a quick, easy, and satisfying snack? When it comes to fuss-free indulgence, Hoda Kotb, the beloved co-anchor of NBC’s Today Show, has revealed her go-to two-ingredient snack that has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of many. This delectable combination is not only incredibly simple to prepare but also surprisingly versatile, allowing for endless variations to suit your individual preferences. This article dives deep into Hoda’s favorite snack, providing a detailed guide, creative variations, and helpful tips to elevate your snacking experience.

## The Magic Duo: Cottage Cheese and Everything Bagel Seasoning

At the core of Hoda Kotb’s snack revelation lies the unexpected yet harmonious pairing of cottage cheese and everything bagel seasoning. The creamy, mild flavor of cottage cheese provides a blank canvas for the bold and savory notes of the seasoning, creating a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more.

### Why This Snack Works

* **Simplicity:** With just two ingredients, it’s perfect for busy mornings, afternoon slumps, or late-night cravings.
* **Nutritious:** Cottage cheese is packed with protein, helping you feel full and satisfied. It’s also a good source of calcium.
* **Flavorful:** Everything bagel seasoning provides a burst of savory flavors, including garlic, onion, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and salt.
* **Customizable:** You can easily adjust the amount of seasoning to your liking and experiment with different variations.

## Getting Started: A Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing Hoda Kotb’s snack is as easy as 1-2-3!

**Ingredients:**

* 1/2 cup cottage cheese (any fat percentage)
* 1-2 teaspoons everything bagel seasoning (or more, to taste)

**Instructions:**

1. **Portion the Cottage Cheese:** Spoon about 1/2 cup of cottage cheese into a bowl or onto a plate. You can use any fat percentage of cottage cheese, depending on your dietary preferences. Low-fat or non-fat versions will have fewer calories and fat, while full-fat versions will be richer and creamier.

2. **Sprinkle the Seasoning:** Generously sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over the cottage cheese. Start with 1 teaspoon and add more to taste. Don’t be shy! The seasoning is what gives this snack its signature flavor.

3. **Enjoy Immediately:** That’s it! Your Hoda-approved snack is ready to be enjoyed. You can eat it straight from the bowl or plate, or use it as a dip for vegetables or crackers (more on that later!).

**Tips for Success:**

* **Choose Quality Cottage Cheese:** Opt for a brand of cottage cheese that you enjoy. Look for a fresh, creamy texture and a mild flavor.
* **Adjust the Seasoning:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with the amount of everything bagel seasoning. Some people prefer a more subtle flavor, while others like a bolder taste. Start with a smaller amount and add more until you reach your desired level of seasoning.
* **Mix it Up:** If you want a more even distribution of flavor, you can gently mix the cottage cheese and seasoning together before eating.
* **Serve Chilled:** Cottage cheese is best served cold. Make sure to keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to eat it.

## Beyond the Basics: Creative Variations and Additions

The beauty of this two-ingredient snack is its versatility. Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you can start experimenting with different additions and variations to create your own unique flavor combinations.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

### Sweet and Savory Sensations

* **Everything Bagel and Honey:** Drizzle a small amount of honey over the cottage cheese and everything bagel seasoning for a touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavors. A teaspoon or less should suffice to balance the flavors without overpowering them.
* **Everything Bagel and Maple Syrup:** Similar to honey, a drizzle of maple syrup can add a warm, sweet note that works surprisingly well with the savory seasoning. Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
* **Cinnamon and Everything Bagel:** A light sprinkle of cinnamon can add a warm, comforting flavor that pairs well with both the cottage cheese and the everything bagel seasoning. This combination creates an unexpected but delightful blend of sweet and savory.

### Spicy and Bold Bites

* **Everything Bagel and Red Pepper Flakes:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. This is perfect for those who like a little heat in their snacks.
* **Everything Bagel and Sriracha:** A few drops of sriracha sauce can add a tangy and spicy flavor that elevates the snack to a whole new level. Be careful not to add too much, as sriracha can be quite potent.
* **Everything Bagel and Chili Oil:** Drizzle a small amount of chili oil over the cottage cheese and seasoning for a flavorful and spicy snack. Chili oil adds a depth of flavor and a pleasant warmth.

### Fresh and Herbaceous Twists

* **Everything Bagel and Fresh Dill:** Sprinkle chopped fresh dill over the cottage cheese and seasoning for a refreshing and herbaceous flavor. Dill complements the creamy cottage cheese and the savory seasoning beautifully.
* **Everything Bagel and Chives:** Similar to dill, chopped fresh chives add a mild onion-like flavor that enhances the snack. Chives are a great way to add a touch of freshness and vibrancy.
* **Everything Bagel and Parsley:** Chopped fresh parsley can add a clean and refreshing flavor that balances the richness of the cottage cheese and the boldness of the seasoning.

### Crunchy and Textural Delights

* **Everything Bagel and Cucumber:** Add slices of cucumber for a refreshing and crunchy element. The cool cucumber complements the creamy cottage cheese and the savory seasoning.
* **Everything Bagel and Cherry Tomatoes:** Halved cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and acidity that balances the flavors and provides a pleasant textural contrast.
* **Everything Bagel and Bell Peppers:** Diced bell peppers (any color) add a crunchy texture and a slightly sweet flavor. Bell peppers are a great way to add vitamins and fiber to your snack.

### Incorporating Vegetables

* **Everything Bagel and Avocado:** Add mashed avocado for a creamy and healthy fat boost. Avocado complements the cottage cheese and adds a richness that makes the snack even more satisfying.
* **Everything Bagel and Spinach:** Add a handful of fresh spinach for added nutrients and a subtle earthy flavor. Spinach is a great way to sneak in some extra greens.
* **Everything Bagel and Radishes:** Thinly sliced radishes add a peppery and crunchy element that complements the creamy cottage cheese and savory seasoning.

### Adding Protein

* **Everything Bagel and Smoked Salmon:** Add small pieces of smoked salmon for a protein-packed and flavorful snack. Smoked salmon adds a salty and smoky flavor that elevates the snack to a gourmet level.
* **Everything Bagel and Hard-Boiled Egg:** Add chopped hard-boiled egg for extra protein and a creamy texture. Hard-boiled egg is a simple and satisfying addition.
* **Everything Bagel and Cooked Chicken:** Shredded cooked chicken breast can also be added to the mix.

### Using as a Dip

Transform Hoda’s snack into a versatile dip!

* **Vegetable Sticks:** Serve with carrot sticks, celery sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips for a healthy and crunchy snack.
* **Crackers:** Pair with your favorite crackers, such as whole-wheat crackers, rye crackers, or gluten-free crackers.
* **Pretzels:** Use pretzel sticks or pretzel crisps for a salty and crunchy dipping option.
* **Pita Bread:** Serve with toasted pita bread or pita chips for a heartier snack.

### Other Seasoning Alternatives

While everything bagel seasoning is the star of Hoda’s snack, you can also experiment with other seasoning blends to create different flavor profiles.

* **Italian Seasoning:** For an Italian-inspired snack, try using Italian seasoning, which typically includes herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary.
* **Garlic Powder:** For a simple and savory flavor, try using garlic powder. You can also add a pinch of onion powder for extra flavor.
* **Onion Powder:** Add some onion powder with pinch of salt for a simple snack
* **Everything But The Elote Seasoning:** This is a great choice if you enjoy the taste of corn and heat. Sprinkle some on top of cottage cheese and enjoy.
* **Ranch Seasoning:** For a tangy and savory flavor, try using ranch seasoning. This is a popular choice for dipping vegetables.
* **Taco Seasoning:** For a Mexican-inspired snack, try using taco seasoning. This is a great option for adding a spicy and savory flavor.
* **Old Bay Seasoning:** This seasoning blend is perfect for seafood lovers. It adds a salty and spicy flavor that pairs well with cottage cheese.

## Making Your Own Everything Bagel Seasoning

If you can’t find everything bagel seasoning at your local grocery store, or if you simply prefer to make your own, it’s surprisingly easy to do.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (white or black, or a combination)
* 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
* 1 tablespoon dried minced garlic
* 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
* 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt

**Instructions:**

1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients.
2. **Mix Well:** Stir well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. **Store:** Store the seasoning in an airtight container at room temperature. It will keep for several months.

## Health Benefits of Cottage Cheese

Beyond its delicious flavor and versatility, cottage cheese also offers a number of health benefits.

* **High in Protein:** Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and promoting satiety. A 1/2-cup serving of cottage cheese typically contains around 12-14 grams of protein.
* **Good Source of Calcium:** Cottage cheese is a good source of calcium, which is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Calcium also plays a role in nerve function, muscle contraction, and blood clotting.
* **Low in Calories:** Compared to many other cheese varieties, cottage cheese is relatively low in calories. This makes it a great option for those who are watching their weight or trying to eat a healthier diet.
* **Rich in Vitamins and Minerals:** Cottage cheese contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, riboflavin, and phosphorus.
* **May Help with Weight Management:** The high protein content of cottage cheese can help you feel full and satisfied, which may lead to reduced calorie intake and weight loss.

## The Final Verdict

Hoda Kotb’s two-ingredient snack is a testament to the fact that simple can be incredibly delicious. With its ease of preparation, versatility, and nutritional benefits, this snack is a winner in our book. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy breakfast, a satisfying afternoon snack, or a guilt-free late-night treat, this combination of cottage cheese and everything bagel seasoning is sure to hit the spot. So, give it a try and discover your own favorite variations! The possibilities are endless, and the flavor is unforgettable. Enjoy!

This snack isn’t just a quick fix; it’s a lifestyle choice for those who appreciate simplicity without sacrificing flavor or nutritional value. Its adaptability to various palates and dietary needs makes it a universal pleaser. From adding a spicy kick to incorporating fresh herbs, this snack encourages culinary creativity and exploration. Embrace the snack that Hoda Kotb swears by and elevate your snacking game to a whole new level of deliciousness and convenience.

Snacking has never been so simple, satisfying, and stylish! Experiment with the different variations and find your perfect combination. Remember, the key to a great snack is to enjoy it and to make it your own.