Cottage Cheese Chickpea Salad Recipe
Introduction
Cottage Cheese Chickpea Salad is a fresh and protein-packed dish perfect for a light lunch or a quick snack. Combining creamy cottage cheese with crunchy cucumbers and hearty chickpeas creates a satisfying balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 cucumbers, diced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, chickpeas, diced cucumbers, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Step 3: Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Step 4: Serve the salad immediately or chill it for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together before enjoying.
Tips & Variations
- For added freshness, sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill before serving.
- Substitute cucumbers with cherry tomatoes for a sweeter twist.
- To make it vegan, replace cottage cheese with firm tofu or a plant-based cheese alternative.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It is best enjoyed fresh but can be gently tossed again before serving if separated. Avoid freezing as the texture of cottage cheese and cucumbers may change.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled?
Yes, fresh lemon juice adds a brighter flavor and works perfectly in the dressing.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for a day or two, making it a convenient and healthy option for meal prep.
PrintCottage Cheese Chickpea Salad Recipe
A refreshing and protein-packed Cottage Cheese Chickpea Salad that combines creamy cottage cheese, hearty chickpeas, crisp cucumbers, and sharp red onions, all tossed in a tangy lemon Dijon dressing. Perfect for a quick, healthy lunch or light dinner, this salad is easy to prepare and full of vibrant flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 cucumbers, diced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, drained chickpeas, diced cucumbers, and thinly sliced red onion until evenly combined.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well emulsified and smooth.
- Toss Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently but thoroughly to evenly coat the ingredients with the dressing.
- Serve or Chill: Enjoy the salad immediately for the freshest taste, or cover and chill it in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for cottage cheese if you prefer a tangier flavor and creamier texture.
- Adding fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or mint can enhance the freshness and aroma of the salad.
- For added crunch, consider topping with toasted nuts or seeds such as sunflower seeds or walnuts.
- This salad can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but cucumbers may lose some crispness.
Keywords: Cottage Cheese Salad, Chickpea Salad, Healthy Salad, Vegetarian Salad, Quick Salad Recipe, Protein Salad
