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This Tomato and Cucumber Cottage Cheese Delight is my answer to those days when you crave something healthy and satisfying but only have a few minutes to spare. Bright tomatoes and crisp cucumbers join creamy cottage cheese with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs to make a dish that feels like a treat. Whether you serve it for lunch or as an energizing snack I think you will love how easy and flavorful it is.
I started making this when my afternoons got extra busy and now it is my go-to whenever I want something refreshing without any fuss. The simplicity is what wins me over every time.
Ingredients
- Cottage cheese: Choose between full fat for extra creaminess or low fat for a lighter option. Look for cottage cheese with small curds and clean ingredients for best flavor
- Cherry tomatoes: bring juicy sweetness and a pop of color. If using larger tomatoes make sure they are firm and ripe
- Cucumber: adds a refreshing crunch. English or Persian cucumbers have tender skin and very few seeds
- Fresh parsley or basil: delivers herbaceous notes. Choose vibrant green leaves with no wilting
- Olive oil: adds richness and ties the flavors together. Extra virgin olive oil with a peppery finish works best
- Lemon juice: optional but it brightens everything. Pick a fresh lemon for juicing instead of bottled
- Salt and black pepper: highlight and balance all the flavors. Taste as you go to avoid over seasoning
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl place the cottage cheese diced cucumber and halved cherry tomatoes. Make sure your veggies are patted dry so the salad stays creamy and not watery
- Dress the Salad:
- Drizzle olive oil and a touch of lemon juice over the mixture. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Start with a small amount so you can adjust to your preference without overpowering the delicate flavors
- Add Fresh Herbs:
- Chop your parsley or basil finely and scatter over the top. The heat from your hands helps release the herb aroma so roll herbs gently before chopping for maximum freshness
- Mix Gently:
- Use a large spoon to fold everything together. Gentle mixing keeps the cottage cheese texture intact while making sure every bite bursts with flavor
- Chill or Serve:
- You can enjoy it right away or let it sit in the fridge for ten to fifteen minutes. Chilling lets the flavors meld and gives the salad an extra refreshing edge
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The fresh herbs always remind me of my grandmother’s kitchen garden full of basil and parsley. My oldest loves to help pick them in the summer and add a handful to the bowl for that extra homey finish.
Storage Tips
For best taste enjoy soon after making but this salad will hold up well in the fridge for a day. Store it in an airtight container to keep the vegetables crisp. If you anticipate leftovers keep the cottage cheese and cut veggies separate and mix just before eating this avoids any sogginess.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are dairy free or vegan try a plant based cottage cheese alternative. Greek yogurt also works but will give a tangier flavor. Switch out tomatoes for diced red pepper or add radish slices for more crunch. Dill and chives are great substitutes if you do not have basil or parsley on hand.
Serving Suggestions
Pile this onto toasted sourdough for an open faced sandwich. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a fuller meal. For brunch I love topping it with sliced avocado or a soft boiled egg for extra richness and color.
Cultural Context
Dishes like this are common across Mediterranean and Eastern European kitchens where fresh dairy and crisp vegetables play a starring role especially in hot weather. It is inspired by the salads my mother would serve every summer and it always brings back the taste of childhood picnics.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, both full-fat and low-fat cottage cheese work well, depending on your preference and dietary needs.
- → What other herbs can I add?
Fresh basil, dill, or chives make great additions. Experiment with your favorite herbs for extra flavor.
- → Is it possible to add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, radishes, or even diced avocado bring extra color and texture to the dish.
- → How long can I store this dish?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours for best freshness and texture.
- → Can I make this vegan?
Yes, simply swap cottage cheese for a plant-based alternative to suit a vegan diet.
- → What can I serve this with?
This light dish pairs well with toasted bread, pita, or alongside grilled foods for a complete meal.