Description
Looking for a healthy, filling, and refreshing salad? This Cottage Cheese and Chickpea Salad combines creamy cottage cheese with protein-rich chickpeas, crisp cucumbers, and tangy red onion for a satisfying bite every time. Ready in just 10 minutes with minimal prep, it’s perfect for busy weekdays, meal prep, or a light side dish at dinner. Add your favorite herbs or extra veggies for a colorful and nutritious meal that’s both easy and delicious.
Ingredients
2 cups cottage cheese (low-fat or non-dairy options work)
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cucumbers, diced
½ red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (or lemon juice for a citrusy twist)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins / Variations:
Cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color
Fresh herbs: parsley, dill, or basil
Feta cheese or toasted nuts for richness and crunch
Protein boost: boiled eggs, grilled chicken, or quinoa
Spice it up: cayenne pepper, red chili flakes, or diced jalapeño
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Dice cucumbers and thinly slice the red onion. Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly under cold water. -
Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, gently mix cottage cheese, chickpeas, cucumbers, and red onion. -
Dress the Salad:
Drizzle olive oil and red wine vinegar over the salad. Season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust as needed. -
Toss and Serve:
Gently toss all ingredients until evenly coated with the dressing. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Do Not Freeze: Cottage cheese and cucumbers lose their texture when frozen.
- Meal Prep Tip: Keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No Cooking
- Cuisine: american