Name: Delicious Greek Cottage Cheese Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese (drained, firm curds preferred); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, chopped into half-moons; 1/2 red onion, finely diced; 1 bell pepper (yellow or red), chopped; 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and black pepper, to taste

Are you in need of a dish that brings together flavor, nutrition, and sheer simplicity? Look no further than this vibrant Greek Cottage Cheese Salad! With its colorful array of ingredients and a creamy yet light dressing, this salad elevates cottage cheese to new heights. It’s perfect for anyone seeking a quick, healthy meal or a refreshing side dish. The combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and zesty olives blended with cottage cheese not only makes this salad a visually appealing dish but also offers a delicious way to enjoy the benefits of a Mediterranean diet.

Imagine sinking your fork into textures that contrast beautifully: the creaminess of cottage cheese harmoniously mingling with crunchy veggies and savory olives. This Greek Cottage Cheese Salad is not only rich in protein and nutrients but also incredibly versatile. It can easily fit into your meal prep for the week or serve as a vibrant accompaniment to grilled meats or seafood. Additionally, it works as a satisfying lunch option or a healthy snack that won’t weigh you down.

Creamy, filling, and fresh, this salad promises to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you are looking to include more low-carb options in your diet, or if you’re on a journey to discover healthier meals, this dish checks all the boxes. Plus, it can be whipped up in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Cottage Cheese Salad

Quick Preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy days.
High Protein Content: Made with cottage cheese, it’s an excellent protein source.
Fresh Ingredients: Crisp vegetables and zesty dressing create each bite a refreshing delight.
Versatile: Great as a main dish or side, and easily customized to suit your taste.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the delightful experience of making the Greek Cottage Cheese Salad, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen. This simple salad requires minimal cooking but does involve some chopping and mixing, so ensure you have a clean and organized workspace. Gather your knives, cutting board, and a large mixing bowl to accommodate all the ingredients comfortably.

For best results, you will need the following kitchen tools: a sharp knife for chopping, a cutting board, a sieve or cheesecloth for draining the cottage cheese, and a sturdy spoon for folding everything together smoothly. Having these tools at the ready will make the process seamless and efficient.

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese (drained, firm curds preferred)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, chopped into half-moons
1/2 red onion, finely diced
1 bell pepper (yellow or red), chopped
1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly under running water. This ensures the freshness and safety of your ingredients. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half, chop the cucumber into half-moon shapes, and finely dice the red onion. When it comes to the bell pepper, you can opt for either yellow or red based on your preference. All these vibrant components will add both flavor and color to your salad.

Step 2: Drain the Cottage Cheese

Drain the cottage cheese to eliminate any excess liquid that can make the salad watery. You can do this by placing the cottage cheese in a sieve or using a cheesecloth. If you prefer a different texture, cut block-style cottage cheese into small cubes, which can provide a delightful mouthfeel when mixed with the veggies.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine all the chopped vegetables along with the olives. The addition of Kalamata olives infuses the salad with a delicious briny flavor that complements the creaminess of the cottage cheese remarkably. Once the vegetables are mixed, gently fold in the cottage cheese, taking care not to mash it but rather to keep the curds intact for creamy bites.

Step 4: Dress and Season

Drizzle the olive oil and red wine vinegar over the salad. These two components act as a light dressing that brings all the flavors together beautifully. Sprinkle the dried oregano, salt, and black pepper, enhancing the Mediterranean flavor profile. Toss everything gently yet thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of dressing and seasoning.

Step 5: Garnish and Rest

Finishing touches are essential; garnish your salad with the finely chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Allow the salad to rest for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This resting period lets the flavors meld together harmoniously, giving you a more delightful experience with every bite.

Variations

Protein: Boost the protein content by adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Mix in additional veggies like avocado, spinach, or radishes for extra crunch and flavor.
Spices: Enhance flavor with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a twist.

Cooking Notes

Always drain the cottage cheese well to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.
Opt for high-quality olive oil, as this simple dressing makes a significant difference in flavor.
Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season for the freshest taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a healthy side to grilled chicken or fish.
This salad also pairs wonderfully with pita bread or a side of hummus for a complete Mediterranean meal.

Tips

When chopping vegetables, uniform sizes ensure a well-balanced bite each time.
For added texture, consider mixing in some nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds or walnuts.
This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep.
Enjoy it fresh, but it can also be chilled slightly for a refreshing, cold salad experience.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approx. 220
Protein: 15g
Sodium: 300mg

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time, just wait to add the dressing and parsley until right before serving to keep it fresh.

What can I substitute for cottage cheese?

If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, feel free to substitute with Greek yogurt for a similarly creamy texture and rich flavor.

How long will the salad last in the fridge?

The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Just be sure to stir well before eating!

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! This recipe is highly customizable. You can add any vegetables you prefer or have on hand, such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Greek Cottage Cheese Salad is not only a delightful medley of flavors and textures but also a fantastic swift dish to prepare. Its versatility means you can adapt it to your preferences—be it as a hearty meal or a light side. Don’t shy away from experimenting with various ingredients to make it entirely your own. I encourage you to skip the takeout today and whip up this fresh and fulfilling salad instead. It’s perfect for any occasion! Whether it’s for a casual lunch, a refreshing dinner, or even as a meal prep option for the week ahead, this recipe will surely become a go-to in your kitchen. So, grab your ingredients, and make this delicious Greek Cottage Cheese Salad today—you won’t regret it!