Cottage Cheese and Cucumber Salad is a refreshing, protein-packed dish that is both light and satisfying. With a creamy texture from the cottage cheese and a crisp bite from the cucumbers, this salad is a perfect balance of flavors. It’s quick to prepare and works well as a side dish, a snack, or even a light meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein: Cottage cheese provides a great source of protein, making this salad a nutritious choice.
- Quick and Easy: Takes only 10 minutes to prepare—perfect for busy days.
- Light and Refreshing: The combination of fresh cucumber, herbs, and lemon juice makes it ideal for warm-weather meals.
- Customizable: Easily adapt with different herbs, spices, or added veggies.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Squeeze of lemon juice (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, diced cucumber, and finely chopped red onion.
- Add fresh herbs and season with salt and pepper.
- Toss everything together until well mixed.
- For extra brightness, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the salad before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Calories: 110 kcal per serving
Variations
- Add More Veggies: Try adding cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or radishes for extra crunch.
- Boost the Protein: Mix in some grilled chicken, hard-boiled eggs, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
- Creamier Texture: Stir in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt for a thicker consistency.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for heat.
- Crunchy Addition: Top with toasted sunflower seeds or almonds for added texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, both full-fat and low-fat cottage cheese work well in this recipe.
What type of cucumber is best for this salad?
English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are great choices because they have fewer seeds and a milder taste.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes! However, for the freshest texture, add the cucumbers and herbs just before serving.
What other herbs can I use?
Dill, parsley, chives, or even basil work well in this salad.
Can I add a dressing?
The cottage cheese acts as a natural dressing, but you can add a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of vinegar for extra flavor.
Is this salad good for meal prep?
Yes, but since cucumbers release water over time, store them separately and mix just before eating.
Can I use flavored cottage cheese?
Yes, but be mindful of added sugars or artificial flavors that might not pair well with the other ingredients.
What can I serve this salad with?
Enjoy it on its own, with whole-grain crackers, or as a filling for lettuce wraps.
How can I make it dairy-free?
Replace cottage cheese with dairy-free alternatives like almond-based ricotta or mashed avocado.
Does this salad work for keto or low-carb diets?
Yes! Cottage cheese is low in carbs, making this a keto-friendly option.
Conclusion
Cottage Cheese and Cucumber Salad is a simple, nutritious, and refreshing dish perfect for any time of day. With its high protein content, fresh ingredients, and quick prep time, this salad is a fantastic addition to your meal rotation. Try it today and enjoy a healthy, delicious bite!
Print
Cottage Cheese and Cucumber Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 servings
- Yield: 110 kcal per serving
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cottage Cheese and Cucumber Salad is a light, protein-rich dish perfect for a refreshing snack, side, or light meal. Made with creamy cottage cheese, crisp cucumbers, fresh herbs, and a touch of lemon juice, this salad is quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Squeeze of lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, diced cucumber, and chopped red onion.
- Add Herbs & Seasoning – Stir in fresh parsley or dill, and season with salt and pepper.
- Toss & Serve – Mix well, then add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra brightness. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use English or Persian cucumbers for the best texture.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Enjoy as a side dish, a snack, or a filling for lettuce wraps.
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