Cottage Cheese and Spinach Salad Recipe
Introduction
This Cottage Cheese and Spinach Salad is a fresh and nutritious dish perfect for a light lunch or a healthy side. Combining creamy cottage cheese with vibrant spinach, sweet cranberries, and crunchy walnuts, it’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese and fresh spinach leaves.
- Step 2: Add the dried cranberries and chopped walnuts to the bowl.
- Step 3: Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 4: Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Step 5: Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.
Tips & Variations
- For added protein, try mixing in some grilled chicken or boiled eggs.
- Swap dried cranberries with raisins or fresh pomegranate seeds for a different fruity note.
- Use toasted pecans instead of walnuts for a sweeter crunch.
- If you prefer a creamier salad, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt to the dressing.
Storage
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because the spinach will wilt and the walnuts may become soggy, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If needed, give the salad a gentle stir before serving again.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Fresh spinach is best for this salad to maintain texture and flavor. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is thawed and thoroughly drained to avoid excess moisture.
Is this salad suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, this salad is low in carbohydrates while providing good protein and healthy fats, making it a great option for low-carb eating plans.
PrintCottage Cheese and Spinach Salad Recipe
A fresh and nutritious Cottage Cheese and Spinach Salad combining creamy cottage cheese with crisp spinach, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy walnuts, dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon juice for a simple, healthy meal or side dish.
- 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
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Cottage Cheese and Spinach: In a large bowl, gently mix the cottage cheese with the fresh spinach leaves to evenly distribute the ingredients without bruising the spinach.
- Add Cranberries and Walnuts: Sprinkle the dried cranberries and chopped walnuts over the cottage cheese and spinach mixture, folding them in carefully to combine.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss lightly to coat all ingredients.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the salad fresh to enjoy the crisp texture of the spinach and the creamy cottage cheese, enhanced by the sweet and crunchy toppings.
Notes
- Use fresh, crisp spinach leaves for the best texture and flavor.
- Walnuts can be toasted lightly for extra aroma and crunch.
- Adjust lemon juice and olive oil amounts according to your preference for acidity and richness.
- Serve this salad as a light lunch or a refreshing side dish.
Keywords: cottage cheese salad, spinach salad, healthy salad, vegetarian salad, quick salad recipe
