Oh, let me tell you about my love for cottage cheese cucumber salad! It’s one of those refreshing dishes that just scream summer. I remember my grandmother making it on hot days, the cool crunch of cucumber perfectly complementing the creamy cottage cheese. This salad is not just quick to whip up, but it’s also packed with protein and low in calories, making it a fantastic choice for a light lunch or a side dish. Plus, it’s so versatile! You can enjoy it as is or jazz it up with your favorite herbs and spices. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients for Cottage Cheese Cucumber Salad
- 1 cup cottage cheese (use small curd for a creamier texture)
- 1 cucumber, diced (I love using English cucumbers for their mild flavor and minimal seeds)
- 1/4 cup red onion, chopped (this adds a nice bite, but feel free to adjust to your taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin if you want to elevate the flavor)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best for that zesty kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)
- Fresh dill for garnish (it really brightens up the dish, but you can swap it out for parsley if you prefer)
How to Prepare Cottage Cheese Cucumber Salad
Getting this salad ready is a breeze! You’ll love how quickly it comes together, and it’s just the right mix of textures and flavors. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious, refreshing dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by grabbing a mixing bowl; you’ll want one that’s big enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.
- Add the cottage cheese to the bowl. If you’re using small curd, it’ll be extra creamy and delightful!
- Next, toss in your diced cucumber. Make sure the pieces are bite-sized for easy eating.
- Then, sprinkle in the chopped red onion. This step adds a fantastic crunch and flavor.
- Now, drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture—this is where the magic happens!
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t hold back; it really makes a difference.
- Finally, gently toss everything together until well mixed, and garnish with fresh dill just before serving. Enjoy the colorful, vibrant salad!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare—ready in just 10 minutes!
- Super easy with minimal ingredients.
- Healthy and low in calories, perfect for any diet.
- Packed with protein from cottage cheese.
- Refreshing flavors that burst with every bite.
Tips for Success
To elevate your cottage cheese cucumber salad, try these handy tips! First, let your salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving; it helps the flavors meld beautifully. If you want a bit more crunch, toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor. Don’t hesitate to experiment with herbs—basil or chives work wonderfully too! And if you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of feta cheese can add a briny kick that pairs perfectly with the cucumber. Trust me, these little tweaks can make a big difference!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so consider this as a general guideline. For each serving of cottage cheese cucumber salad, you can expect around 150 calories, 5g of fat, 15g of protein, and 10g of carbohydrates. Enjoy this guilt-free dish while being mindful of your dietary needs!
FAQ About Cottage Cheese Cucumber Salad
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, you can use Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture with a tangy twist. It’s delicious too!
How long does it last in the fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before serving!
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. Bell peppers, radishes, or even shredded carrots can add extra crunch and color to your salad.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this cottage cheese cucumber salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect option for anyone with gluten sensitivities!
Serving Suggestions
This cottage cheese cucumber salad is so versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes! For a light lunch, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a refreshing contrast. It also makes an excellent side for barbecued meats or a hearty sandwich. And don’t forget a chilled glass of white wine or iced tea to complement the flavors. It’s perfect for picnics and potlucks too—everyone will be asking for your recipe!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store your cottage cheese cucumber salad, simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 2 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to reblend the ingredients. I don’t recommend freezing this salad, as the texture of the cucumber can become mushy when thawed. Enjoy it chilled for the best flavor and crunch!
Print
Cottage Cheese Cucumber Salad: 7 Refreshing Reasons to Enjoy
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A refreshing salad combining cottage cheese and cucumber.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine cottage cheese and diced cucumber.
- Add chopped red onion.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss gently to mix all ingredients.
- Garnish with fresh dill before serving.
Notes
- Serve chilled for best flavor.
- Can replace dill with parsley if preferred.
- Add cherry tomatoes for extra color.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: cottage cheese cucumber salad