This Cottage Cheese Salad is a fresh, no-cook, high-protein meal that comes together in just 10 minutes. It features finely diced vegetables, creamy cottage cheese, and a touch of olive oil and lemon juice for a light yet satisfying dish. Perfect for a healthy snack, side dish, or light lunch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High-Protein & Low-Carb: Cottage cheese adds protein while keeping it light and refreshing.
- No-Cook & Quick: Ready in minutes with minimal effort.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, herbs, or even chickpeas for extra nutrition.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: The diced salad can be stored separately for up to 2 days.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 slices tomato
- ¼ cucumber, diced
- 1 slice onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and halved (optional)
- 8 kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- ½ lemon, juiced
- 1 pinch salt (to taste)
- 1 cup cottage cheese (2% or full-fat)
- Fresh herbs (basil, oregano, or parsley, optional)
Directions
- Finely dice the tomato, cucumber, onion, jalapeño, and olives using a knife or food chopper.
- Place the chopped veggies in a bowl and toss with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
- Spread the cottage cheese on a serving plate or bowl.
- Top the cottage cheese with the prepared vegetable mixture.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Add Protein: Mix in chickpeas or cooked lentils for extra protein.
- Crunchy Twist: Add diced bell peppers, radishes, or fennel.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute cottage cheese with hummus or mashed avocado.
- Make It a Dip: Serve with pita chips or crackers for a fun appetizer.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep the diced salad and cottage cheese separate in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: No reheating needed—serve chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Try ricotta, labneh, or Greek yogurt for a creamy base.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, dice the vegetables and store them separately. Assemble just before serving.
What can I serve with this salad?
Pair it with grilled chicken, pita bread, or crackers for a more filling meal.
Can I skip the olives?
Yes! Substitute with pickled onions or pepperoncini for a tangy flavor.
Is this salad keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein.
Conclusion
This Cottage Cheese Salad is an easy, nutritious, and refreshing dish that works as a light meal, side dish, or appetizer. With its creamy cottage cheese base and fresh, flavorful toppings, it’s a healthy and delicious way to enjoy a protein-packed meal in just minutes!
Print
Cottage Cheese Salad
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Description
This Cottage Cheese Salad is a fresh, high-protein, no-cook meal that comes together in just 10 minutes. Featuring diced vegetables, creamy cottage cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice, this refreshing dish is perfect as a healthy snack, side, or light lunch. Packed with flavor and nutrition, it’s a quick and easy meal you’ll love!
Ingredients
- 2 slices tomato, diced
- ¼ cucumber, diced
- 1 slice onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and halved (optional)
- 8 kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- ½ lemon, juiced
- 1 pinch salt (to taste)
- 1 cup cottage cheese (2% or full-fat)
- Fresh herbs (basil, oregano, or parsley, optional)
Instructions
- Finely dice the tomato, cucumber, onion, jalapeño, and olives.
- Place the chopped veggies in a bowl and toss with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
- Spread the cottage cheese on a serving plate or bowl.
- Top the cottage cheese with the prepared vegetable mixture.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra protein, add chickpeas or cooked lentils.
- For a crunchier texture, mix in diced bell peppers or radishes.
- For a dairy-free version, swap cottage cheese with hummus or mashed avocado.
- To make it a dip, serve with pita chips or crackers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, American
