This Cottage Cheese and Chickpea Salad is a fun mix of creamy and crunchy! With fresh veggies and a zesty dressing, it’s light, filling, and super colorful on your plate.
I love how easy it is to whip up this salad—it’s perfect for lunch or a quick snack. Plus, the protein from the cottage cheese and chickpeas keeps me satisfied without feeling heavy. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas are a great time-saver! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use dried chickpeas that you’ve soaked and cooked. You can even substitute them with black beans or lentils for a different twist.
Cottage Cheese: I love using small curd cottage cheese for its creamy texture. If you’re lactose intolerant or looking for a vegan option, try silken tofu blended until smooth or a dairy-free yogurt.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a sweet burst to the salad. If you can’t find them, diced regular tomatoes or even bell pepper pieces will work just fine!
Dill: Fresh dill gives this salad a bright flavor. If you don’t have it, parsley or basil can make a great substitute. Dried dill can work too, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Ingredients Stay Fresh?
To keep your salad crisp and fresh, you’ll want to follow a few simple steps during preparation:
- Rinse chickpeas well to remove the canning liquid, preventing any metallic taste.
- Chop vegetables right before serving if possible, so they stay crunchy.
- If making ahead of time, store the dressing separately to prevent sogginess.
Enjoy your salad with these freshness tips in mind, and feel free to get creative with your ingredients!
Cottage Cheese And Chickpea Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup cottage cheese (crumbled or small curd)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 medium cucumber (chopped)
- 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 2 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- A pinch of red chili flakes (optional for some heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing this salad takes about 15 minutes total! You’ll need a few minutes to chop veggies, mix everything together, and then you’re ready to serve. It’s a quick and refreshing dish that can be enjoyed right away, or it can be chilled for a bit if you prefer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chickpeas:
Start by rinsing and draining the canned chickpeas thoroughly to remove any canning liquid. This step is important as it helps get rid of any metallic taste. Once they’re rinsed, set them aside.
2. Chop the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your halved cherry tomatoes, chopped cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion. These veggies will provide a fresh and crunchy base for your salad.
3. Add the Main Ingredients:
Add the drained chickpeas and crumbled cottage cheese to the bowl. The chickpeas are a great source of protein, while the cottage cheese adds creaminess.
4. Add Freshness with Dill:
Sprinkle in the chopped fresh dill. This herb brings a lovely flavor that really brightens the salad!
5. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and optional red chili flakes if you’re looking for a little kick.
6. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine everything. Be careful not to break up the cottage cheese too much; we want it to stay nice and chunky!
7. Taste and Adjust:
Take a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can sprinkle on more salt or add a splash of lemon juice to brighten it up further.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s perfect as a light meal or side dish for any occasion. Enjoy your healthy and delicious Cottage Cheese and Chickpea Salad!
Can I Use Dried Chickpeas Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and then cook until tender before adding them to the salad. This will give you the best texture and flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dressing can make the salad soggy, so it’s best to keep it separate until you’re ready to eat!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Salad?
Yes, feel free to customize! You can add bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for extra crunch and nutrition. Just chop them to a similar size for even mixing.
Is This Salad Suitable for Meal Prep?
Definitely! This salad holds up well for meal prep. Just store the dressing separately and mix it in right before serving to keep everything fresh and tasty.
