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This cottage cheese and chickpea salad is a perfect quick fix when you want something fresh, filling, and full of protein. It comes together in no time and is great for a light lunch or a wholesome snack.
I first tossed this salad together on a busy weekday when I wanted something healthy but effortless. It quickly became a staple that I reach for whenever I need a nourishing but fuss-free meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese: for creamy texture and protein choose full-fat for richness or low-fat for a lighter option
- 1 can chickpeas: drained and rinsed to add fiber and a nutty bite canned beans work well here for convenience
- 1 cucumber: diced to bring a fresh crunch and slight sweetness pick firm and bright cucumbers to avoid bitterness
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes: halved for juicy bursts of acidity look for tomatoes that are deep red and plump
- ¼ cup red onion: finely chopped to add sharpness and a little zing fresh onions are best for crunch and flavor
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley: chopped to brighten the dish with herbal notes use flat-leaf parsley if possible for stronger flavor
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: for acidity and balance fresh squeezing is always better than bottled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: adds richness and helps bind ingredients opt for extra virgin for best flavor
- Salt and pepper: to taste to enhance all the flavors I prefer freshly cracked black pepper for more aroma
Instructions
- Build The Base:
- In a large bowl combine the cottage cheese and chickpeas. The creaminess of the cottage cheese balances the firmness of the chickpeas creating a satisfying texture contrast.
- Add The Vegetables:
- Gently fold in the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and finely chopped red onion. These fresh veggies add crunch and brightness that keeps the salad lively.
- Fresh Herb Boost:
- Sprinkle in the chopped parsley. This herb lifts all the flavors and adds a touch of earthiness that makes the salad more complex.
- Dress It Up:
- Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad. Doing this last ensures that the dressing coats every bite without overwhelming the base ingredients.
- Season Well:
- Sprinkle salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Seasoning is crucial here to bring all the components together and balance the creaminess and acidity.
- Combine Carefully:
- Using a large spoon or spatula gently mix everything until the ingredients are just evenly combined. This keeps the tomatoes intact and keeps the salad visually appealing.
- Chill Before Serving:
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for 15 to 20 minutes. This resting time lets the flavors mingle and chill makes it refreshingly cool and satisfying on warm days.
I adore how the parsley gives this salad a burst of brightness that cuts through the creamy cottage cheese. In my family this simple salad always reminds me of sunny afternoons when we gathered on the porch with bowls of something fresh and easy to enjoy together.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keeps well for up to two days but cucumbers are best fresh so add them just before serving if possible. Give it a quick stir before serving again to redistribute the dressing.
Ingredient Swaps
Swap cottage cheese for ricotta or Greek yogurt if you want a different creamy texture. Use any beans you have like white beans or black beans instead of chickpeas to change the flavor profile. Replace parsley with cilantro or dill for a different herbal note.
Serving Ideas
Serve over a bed of mixed greens to turn it into a fuller salad. Spoon it onto toasted whole grain bread for an open-faced sandwich. Pair with crackers or pita chips for a quick appetizer or snack.
This salad is a refreshing and nutritious choice any time of year with endless ways to make it your own.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of cottage cheese?
Yes, soft cheeses like ricotta or feta can offer a similar creamy texture and complement the chickpeas well.
- → How can I add more crunch to this salad?
Incorporate veggies like bell peppers, celery, or radishes for extra texture and freshness.
- → Is it necessary to chill the salad before serving?
Chilling helps the flavors meld and enhances the refreshing taste, but it can be served immediately if preferred.
- → What dressing options work well for this salad?
The combination of olive oil and lemon juice is bright and simple, but a light vinaigrette or herb-infused oil can also be delicious.
- → Can this salad be prepared ahead of time?
Absolutely, it holds up well in the fridge for a few hours, making it a convenient option for meal prep or gatherings.