This Cottage Cheese and Chickpea Salad is a refreshing dish packed with protein and flavor. The creamy cottage cheese pairs perfectly with the hearty chickpeas and vibrant veggies.
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just mix everything in a bowl for a quick meal or side. Plus, it’s great for lunch, and you can make it ahead of time—win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This adds a creamy texture and protein to the salad. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using hummus or vegan cream cheese as a substitute.
Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas are convenient, but you can also use cooked dried chickpeas if you prefer. If chickpeas aren’t your thing, white beans or black beans work well too.
Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are sweet and juicy, but feel free to use diced regular tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor.
Cucumber: A refreshing crunch! You could replace it with diced bell peppers or zucchini if you want something a bit different.
Red Onion: This gives a nice bite. If you find raw onion too strong, you can use green onions or skip it altogether.
How Can I Make the Salad Extra Flavorful?
To boost the flavor, make sure to use fresh ingredients, especially the herbs and lemon juice. Here’s how to enhance the taste:
- When adding the olive oil and lemon juice dressing, whisk them well to blend the flavors.
- Let the salad sit for about 30 minutes after mixing. This time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- The optional za’atar or ground sumac adds a unique Middle Eastern touch. If you can find it, it’s worth trying!
- You can always sprinkle some feta cheese on top for additional creaminess and saltiness if you’re not specifically avoiding dairy.
Cottage Cheese And Chickpea Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (crumbled)
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp za’atar or ground sumac (optional for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. If you let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes, you’ll get to enjoy all those flavors mingling together even more. Perfect for a fresh meal anytime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Veggies:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add the rinsed chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped cucumber, and finely chopped red onion. Give it all a gentle stir to mix the veggies together nicely.
2. Add the Cottage Cheese:
Next, gently fold in the crumbled cottage cheese. Be careful not to break it up too much; we want some nice, creamy chunks in there!
3. Mix in the Herbs:
Sprinkle the fresh parsley over the salad and fold it in so that it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This dressing will enhance all the flavors in your salad.
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently until all the ingredients are coated.
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
If you’re using za’atar or ground sumac, sprinkle it over the top for a lovely burst of flavor that really makes this salad shine!
7. Serve or Chill:
You can serve the salad right away, but if you have the time, let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to blend together beautifully. Enjoy your refreshing Cottage Cheese and Chickpea Salad!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Cottage Cheese?
Absolutely! There are great non-dairy alternatives available that mimic the texture and flavor of cottage cheese. Look for almond, soy, or cashew-based options to keep the dish plant-based.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get better as they sit, so it’s a tasty option for meal prep!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to throw in any of your favorite chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers, radishes, or even shredded carrots for extra crunch and flavor.
What Can I Serve This Salad With?
This salad is incredibly versatile! It pairs well with grilled meats, can be served as a light lunch, or enjoyed alongside pita bread and hummus for a Mediterranean feast.
