Get ready to fall in love with these 20 deliciously creamy cottage cheese salad recipes! As a popular protein-rich ingredient, cottage cheese adds a unique tanginess and creaminess to any dish. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, showcasing an array of mouthwatering salads that combine the humble hero of cottage cheese with fresh fruits, crunchy vegetables, savory nuts, and more.
From classic Greek-inspired combinations to exotic flavors like pineapple and coconut, there’s something for everyone in this diverse collection. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing side dish or a satisfying main course, these recipes are sure to impress. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of creamy cottage cheese salads and discover your new favorite recipe!
Greek Cottage Cheese Salad with Cucumber and Tomatoes
This refreshing salad combines the creamy texture of Greek cottage cheese with the coolness of cucumber, the juiciness of tomatoes, and a hint of Mediterranean flair. Perfect for hot summer days or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek cottage cheese, cucumber, and tomatoes.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Avocado and Cottage Cheese Salad with Lemon Dressing
A refreshing and healthy salad that combines the creamy texture of cottage cheese, the richness of avocado, and a tangy lemon dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced avocado and cottage cheese.
2. Stir in the chopped parsley until well combined.
3. Squeeze the lemon juice over the salad and toss gently to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spinach and Cottage Cheese Salad with Walnuts
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the nutty flavor of walnuts, all on a bed of fresh spinach. Perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the spinach leaves.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the cottage cheese and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Spoon the cottage cheese mixture over the spinach leaves.
4. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts evenly over the top of the salad.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Beetroot and Cottage Cheese Salad with Fresh Herbs
A vibrant and refreshing salad that combines the natural sweetness of beetroot with the creaminess of cottage cheese, all tied together with a burst of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroot, peeled and diced
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the diced beetroot with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the beetroot for about 45 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a bowl, combine the roasted beetroot, cottage cheese, parsley, dill, and lemon juice.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Tomato Basil Cottage Cheese Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the sweetness of fresh tomatoes and the brightness of basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cottage cheese and a pinch of salt.
2. Add the chopped basil to the cottage cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Arrange the cherry tomatoes on top of the cottage cheese mixture.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Peach and Cottage Cheese Salad with Honey Drizzle
This refreshing summer salad combines the natural sweetness of peaches with the tanginess of cottage cheese, finished with a drizzle of warm honey. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced peaches and cottage cheese.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the honey and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Pour the honey mixture over the peach-cottage cheese mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of preparation time.
Cucumber Radish Cottage Cheese Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the crunch of radishes and the sweetness of cucumbers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 medium cucumbers, diced
– 4-6 radishes, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the cottage cheese and a pinch of salt.
2. Add the diced cucumbers and chopped parsley to the bowl with the cottage cheese.
3. Arrange the radish slices on top of the cucumber mixture.
4. Season with pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Strawberry Cottage Cheese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the creaminess of cottage cheese, topped with a tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cottage cheese and sugar. Mix until well combined.
2. Add sliced strawberries and chopped mint leaves to the bowl. Gently fold until the fruit is evenly distributed.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and salt to taste.
4. Pour the balsamic glaze over the cottage cheese mixture and gently fold until the dressing is well combined.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (preparation time only)
Carrot and Cottage Cheese Salad with Raisins
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of carrots and raisins with the tanginess of cottage cheese, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch. With its simplicity and flavor, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the grated carrots and cottage cheese.
2. Add the raisins and stir until well combined.
3. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with salt to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Blueberry Cottage Cheese Salad with Mint
This refreshing salad combines the tanginess of cottage cheese with the sweetness of blueberries and a hint of cooling mint, perfect for a warm day or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cottage cheese and honey. Mix until smooth.
2. Gently fold in the blueberries and mint leaves.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of preparation.
Serve chilled and enjoy as a light snack or side dish.
Pineapple Cottage Cheese Salad with Coconut Flakes
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the tanginess of cottage cheese, all wrapped up in a crunchy coconut flake topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut flakes
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese, pineapple chunks, and honey. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Spoon the mixture into a serving dish or individual cups.
4. Sprinkle the shredded coconut flakes over the top of the salad.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Apple Walnut Cottage Cheese Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the crunch of walnuts and the sweetness of apples, perfect for a light and satisfying fall treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 cups chopped fresh apple (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese and honey. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the chopped apple and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the chopped walnuts.
4. Squeeze the lemon juice over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tips:
– Use a variety of apples for a mix of sweet and tart flavors.
– Substitute Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese if you prefer a creamier base.
– Add some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor and color.
Corn and Cottage Cheese Salad with Lime Dressing
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing salad that combines the sweetness of corn with the creaminess of cottage cheese, all tied together with a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying side dish or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the corn kernels and cottage cheese.
2. Stir in the chopped cilantro.
3. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Pear and Cottage Cheese Salad with Cinnamon
This sweet and savory salad is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and aromas. The warmth of cinnamon complements the tender pears and creamy cottage cheese beautifully.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the pear slices, cottage cheese, sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Toss gently until the pears are evenly coated with the mixture.
3. Drizzle the melted butter over the salad and toss again to combine.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Roasted Pepper and Cottage Cheese Salad
A vibrant and refreshing salad that combines the sweetness of roasted peppers with the creaminess of cottage cheese, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool.
4. Peel off the skin, remove the seeds, and slice the peppers into strips.
5. In a bowl, combine the cottage cheese, parsley, and roasted pepper strips.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Chickpea and Cottage Cheese Salad with Tahini
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of cottage cheese, the nutty flavor of tahini, and the protein-rich goodness of chickpeas. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 tbsp tahini
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cottage cheese, and tahini. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in the chopped parsley and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep time), 30 minutes (refrigeration time)
Mandarin Orange Cottage Cheese Salad
A refreshing and tangy salad that combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the sweetness of mandarin oranges, perfect for a light and satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup diced mandarin oranges (about 2-3 oranges)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese and honey. Mix well until smooth.
2. Add the diced mandarin oranges and chopped mint leaves to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of preparation.
Kale and Cottage Cheese Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the earthy flavor of kale, all tied together with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner, it’s also a great side dish for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, massage the kale with your hands for about 5 minutes to help soften the leaves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil to make the vinaigrette.
3. Add the cottage cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the kale. Toss until well combined.
4. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss again to coat.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Olive and Cottage Cheese Salad with Oregano
A refreshing and savory salad that combines the creaminess of cottage cheese, the earthy flavor of oregano, and the brininess of olives. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cottage cheese and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the sliced olives and chopped oregano to the bowl. Mix gently until well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep), 30 minutes (chill)
Watermelon and Cottage Cheese Salad with Fresh Basil
This light and refreshing salad is perfect for hot summer days. The sweetness of the watermelon pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the cottage cheese, while fresh basil adds a bright and herbaceous note.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed seedless watermelon
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cubed watermelon and cottage cheese.
2. Sprinkle the chopped basil over the top of the salad and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, dreamy salads with these 20 delicious cottage cheese recipes! From classic combinations like Greek Cottage Cheese Salad with Cucumber and Tomatoes, to innovative pairings like Peach and Cottage Cheese Salad with Honey Drizzle, there’s something for everyone. With ingredients ranging from sweet strawberries to savory beets, each salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a satisfying snack, these creamy cottage cheese salads are sure to satisfy your cravings.
