Clean & Lean Protein Breakfast Bowl

This is the clean and lean protein bowl I look forward to making for breakfast, as it’s so incredibly simple. It’s high-protein, fiber-forward, and easy to assemble for busy mornings.

Why You’ll Love This Protein Bowl

This recipe really is the high-protein breakfast of my dreams. It’s packed with all the little bits I love (and typically have on hand), including spinach, smoked salmon, cottage cheese, avocado, and cherry tomatoes. Then, the only thing left to do is to quickly make an oozy poached egg. I had a similar protein bowl at a restaurant a few years ago for a quick lunch break from my cookbook photo shoot, and I’ve been in love with the simplicity of it ever since. The best part? It packs in a whopping 34 grams of protein! You’ll also love that it’s:

• Quick and easy. The only cooking here is the poached egg. Otherwise, the rest comes together in less than 15 minutes!
• Easily customizable. This is just one way to build a lean protein bowl. Swap spinach for arugula or poached eggs for boiled eggs. I’ll share some ingredient options below.

Protein Bowl Ingredients

• Leafy greens: Baby spinach is my go-to, but use any leafy green you like.
• Cottage cheese: Such an easy, delicious way to add a big boost of protein.
• Smoked salmon: Adds omega-3s, protein, healthy fats, and that salty, savory flavor I love.
• Poached egg: I’m all about a jammy, oozy yolk, but soft-boiled or hard-boiled eggs are great options too.
• Avocado and cherry tomatoes: Avocado brings healthy fats, while cherry tomatoes add a fresh, juicy pop.
• Lemon vinaigrette: My simple, go-to dressing that’s light and not overpowering. Especially perfect for breakfast or lunch bowls.

Find the printable recipe with measurements below.

How To Build This Protein Bowl

First, start with the greens. Add the baby spinach to a serving bowl as your base layer. Then, layer it up! Top with the cottage cheese, smoked salmon, poached egg, avocado, and cherry tomatoes. Finish with a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette, and enjoy right away.

Make It Your Own

Think of this protein bowl as a flexible template you can adjust based on what you have in the fridge (or what you’re craving that day). Here are a few easy ways to switch things up:

• Switch the greens: Baby spinach is my favorite, but arugula adds a peppery bite, mixed greens keep it classic, and finely chopped kale makes it extra hearty.
• Change the egg: Not in the mood to poach? Soft-boiled eggs or hard-boiled eggs work just as well and are great for meal prep.
• Try a different protein: Swap smoked salmon for grilled chicken, roast turkey, canned tuna, or even leftover baked salmon.
• Add extra veggies: Sautéed mushrooms, roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers are all delicious additions.

More High-Protein Breakfast Ideas

• Ultimate Breakfast Casserole: Perfect for meal prep.
• Turkish Eggs: Flavor-packed eggs!
• Lemon Ricotta Protein Pancakes: Sweet and high-protein.
• Breakfast Egg Muffins: Great for a grab-and-go option.