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Cottage cheese salads are a simple way to enjoy a high-protein, refreshing meal or snack. Creamy cottage cheese pairs perfectly with fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, and herbs to create salads that are both satisfying and full of flavor. From light lunches to side dishes for dinner, these salads are quick to prepare and packed with nutrients your body will love.
Adding cottage cheese to salads brings a boost of protein without overpowering the other ingredients. You can mix in crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, sweet berries, or crunchy nuts to create endless combinations. A drizzle of olive oil, lemon juice, or a touch of honey takes these salads from ordinary to irresistible, making them a favorite for busy weekdays or casual gatherings.
These salads are easy to customize and look vibrant on the plate, making them perfect for family meals, meal prep, or serving at parties. Every bite delivers creamy, fresh, and wholesome flavors, turning a simple cottage cheese salad into a healthy, crowd-pleasing dish that you’ll come back to again and again.
Mediterranean Chickpea & Cottage Cheese Salad –

This Mediterranean Chickpea & Cottage Cheese Salad is a vibrant mix of flavors and textures. The bright colors of cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives make it visually appealing. The chickpeas add a hearty touch, while the cottage cheese provides a creamy element that ties everything together.
The salad is not just pretty; it’s packed with nutrients. Chickpeas are a great source of protein and fiber, making this dish filling and satisfying. The fresh vegetables bring crunch and freshness, while the herbs add a burst of flavor.
Making this salad is simple. Just toss everything together, and you have a delicious meal ready in no time. It’s perfect for lunch or as a side dish at dinner. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep!
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and black olives.
- Add the cottage cheese and parsley, mixing gently to combine.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Curried Chickpea & Cottage Cheese Salad

This Curried Chickpea & Cottage Cheese Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The chickpeas provide a hearty base, while diced apples add a sweet crunch. Celery brings a refreshing crunch, and raisins contribute a touch of sweetness. All of this is beautifully combined with a light curry-yogurt dressing that complements the cottage cheese perfectly.
The vibrant colors in the salad make it visually appealing, and the combination of ingredients ensures every bite is satisfying. It’s a great option for lunch or as a side dish at dinner. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time!
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced apples
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, diced apples, chopped celery, and raisins.
- In a separate bowl, mix the yogurt and curry powder until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
- Gently fold the curry-yogurt dressing into the chickpea mixture.
- Serve the salad over a bed of cottage cheese.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Southwest Chickpea & Cottage Cheese Salad

This Southwest Chickpea & Cottage Cheese Salad is a colorful and nutritious dish that combines a variety of fresh ingredients. The black beans, corn, diced avocado, and bell peppers create a vibrant mix that not only looks good but tastes amazing too. The lime-cilantro dressing adds a refreshing zing, making it perfect for any meal.
The salad is packed with protein from the chickpeas and cottage cheese, making it a filling option for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up! Just chop your veggies, mix everything together, and drizzle on that delicious dressing. You’ll have a hearty salad ready in no time.
Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue or enjoying it as a quick meal at home, this salad is sure to impress. It’s a great way to enjoy healthy ingredients without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup cottage cheese
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, black beans, corn, avocado, and bell peppers.
- Add the chopped cilantro and gently mix everything together.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Serve topped with cottage cheese for a creamy finish.
Roasted Chickpea & Cottage Cheese Power Salad

This Roasted Chickpea & Cottage Cheese Power Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The crispy spiced roasted chickpeas add a satisfying crunch, while the fresh spinach and roasted red peppers bring vibrant colors and nutrients to the dish. Topped with creamy cottage cheese and a drizzle of balsamic, this salad is not just tasty but also packed with protein.
To make this salad, start by roasting the chickpeas. Toss them with your favorite spices and bake until crispy. While they roast, prepare the fresh ingredients. Combine spinach and chopped roasted red peppers in a bowl. Once the chickpeas are ready, add them to the salad along with generous dollops of cottage cheese. Finish with a balsamic drizzle for that perfect tangy kick.
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix chickpeas with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the chickpeas on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy.
- In a large bowl, combine fresh spinach and roasted red peppers.
- Once the chickpeas are done, add them to the salad mixture.
- Top with cottage cheese and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Smoked Salmon & Avocado Cottage Cheese Salad

This Smoked Salmon & Avocado Cottage Cheese Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The creamy cottage cheese serves as a perfect base, topped with fresh slices of avocado, cucumber, and savory smoked salmon. The addition of boiled eggs and fresh dill adds a lovely touch, making this salad not just tasty but also visually appealing.
Start by layering the creamy cottage cheese on a plate. Next, arrange the cucumber slices and avocado on top. Then, add generous pieces of smoked salmon, followed by sliced boiled eggs. Finally, sprinkle fresh dill over the entire dish for that aromatic finish. This salad is not only refreshing but also packed with protein, making it a great choice for lunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 4 ounces smoked salmon
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 2 boiled eggs, quartered
- Fresh dill, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Start by placing the cottage cheese in a bowl or on a plate as the base.
- Layer the cucumber slices evenly over the cottage cheese.
- Add the sliced avocado on top of the cucumber.
- Next, arrange the smoked salmon over the avocado.
- Place the quartered boiled eggs around the salad.
- Garnish with fresh dill and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious salad!
Berry & Cottage Cheese Breakfast Salad

This Berry & Cottage Cheese Breakfast Salad is a delightful way to start your day. The vibrant colors of mixed berries—strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries—create a feast for the eyes. Each berry adds its unique flavor and sweetness, making this salad both refreshing and satisfying.
The creamy cottage cheese provides a protein boost, keeping you full and energized. A drizzle of honey adds just the right amount of sweetness, while fresh mint leaves bring a burst of freshness to every bite. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect breakfast option.
Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning at home or preparing a brunch for friends, this salad is sure to impress. It’s quick to make and can be customized with your favorite fruits or toppings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 1/2 cup raspberries
- 1-2 tablespoons honey
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, add the cottage cheese as the base.
- Top with sliced strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
- Drizzle honey over the top.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Greek Cottage Cheese Salad

This Greek Cottage Cheese Salad is a refreshing dish that brings together vibrant flavors and textures. The bright red cherry tomatoes pop against the crisp green cucumber slices, while the deep purple Kalamata olives add a savory touch. Crumbled feta cheese adds creaminess, and a sprinkle of oregano enhances the Mediterranean vibe.
The combination of these ingredients not only looks appealing but also packs a nutritious punch. Cottage cheese serves as a protein-rich base, making this salad a great option for a light lunch or a side dish at dinner. Drizzling some olive oil over the top ties everything together with a rich, smooth finish.
Making this salad is simple and quick. Just chop the vegetables, mix them with cottage cheese and feta, and drizzle with olive oil. It’s a perfect dish for warm days when you want something light yet satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
- Sprinkle the dried oregano over the salad, and drizzle with olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and gently toss to combine all the ingredients.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Apple Walnut Cottage Cheese Salad

This Apple Walnut Cottage Cheese Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The crispness of sliced apples pairs perfectly with the crunch of chopped walnuts. Drizzled with a cinnamon-honey dressing, this salad is not just tasty but also visually appealing. The creamy cottage cheese serves as a lovely base, making it a great choice for a light meal or a refreshing snack.
To make this salad, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need fresh apples, walnuts, and cottage cheese. The dressing is simple yet delicious, combining honey and cinnamon for a sweet touch. This salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic or a family dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 2 medium apples, diced (use a mix of sweet and tart)
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix honey and cinnamon until well combined.
- In a large bowl, layer the cottage cheese, diced apples, and chopped walnuts.
- Drizzle the honey-cinnamon mixture over the salad.
- Gently toss to combine all ingredients.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve immediately.
Beet & Citrus Cottage Cheese Salad

This Beet & Citrus Cottage Cheese Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The roasted beets add a sweet earthiness, while the mixed greens provide a fresh crunch. The creamy cottage cheese brings richness, and the orange-lemon vinaigrette ties everything together with a zesty kick.
To make this salad, you’ll want to start with fresh ingredients. Roasting the beets enhances their natural sweetness, making them the star of the dish. The vibrant colors of the beets and citrus fruits make this salad not just tasty, but also visually appealing.
Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish at dinner, this salad is sure to impress. It’s simple to prepare and packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for anyone looking to eat healthier.
Ingredients
- 2 medium beets, roasted and diced
- 4 cups mixed greens (like arugula and spinach)
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup mandarin oranges, peeled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Roast the Beets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the beets in foil and roast for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender. Let them cool, then peel and dice.
- Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted beets, and mandarin oranges. Add the vinaigrette and toss gently.
- Serve: Divide the salad onto plates and top with dollops of cottage cheese. Enjoy your refreshing salad!
Tomato Basil Cottage Cheese Salad

This Tomato Basil Cottage Cheese Salad is a delightful mix of fresh ingredients that come together beautifully. The juicy diced tomatoes add a burst of flavor, while the fresh basil brings a fragrant touch. Drizzled with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, this salad is both refreshing and satisfying.
The cottage cheese serves as a creamy base, making this dish not only tasty but also packed with protein. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish at dinner. The vibrant colors of the tomatoes and basil make it visually appealing, too!
To make this salad, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need ripe tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, cottage cheese, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. Chop the tomatoes and basil, then mix them with the cottage cheese. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, and give it a gentle toss to combine everything.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinegar and olive oil over the mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently toss everything together until well combined.
- Serve immediately or chill for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Spinach, Cranberry & Walnut Cottage Cheese Salad

This Spinach, Cranberry & Walnut Cottage Cheese Salad is a delightful mix of fresh ingredients. The vibrant green spinach leaves create a beautiful base, while the dried cranberries add a pop of color and sweetness. Chopped walnuts bring a satisfying crunch, making each bite enjoyable.
The lemon-olive oil dressing ties everything together, providing a zesty flavor that complements the salad perfectly. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a light lunch or a side dish at dinner.
To make this salad, you’ll need fresh spinach, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and a simple dressing made from lemon juice and olive oil. Toss everything together, and you have a refreshing salad that’s ready in minutes!
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts.
- Add the cottage cheese on top of the salad mix.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your healthy, delicious salad!
Quinoa & Cottage Cheese Protein Salad

This Quinoa & Cottage Cheese Protein Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The fluffy quinoa serves as a perfect base, while the juicy cherry tomatoes add a burst of freshness. Chopped parsley brings a vibrant green touch, making the dish visually appealing and nutritious.
The lemon-olive oil dressing ties everything together, offering a zesty kick that enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. Topped with creamy cottage cheese, this salad is not just tasty but also packed with protein, making it a great option for a light lunch or a side dish at dinner.
Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a quick dish to whip up, this salad is simple and satisfying. It’s perfect for warm days or anytime you crave something healthy and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Top with cottage cheese before serving.
- Enjoy your refreshing salad!
Pomegranate & Cottage Cheese Salad – Fresh Pomegranate Seeds, Mixed Greens, Olive Oil-Balsamic Vinaigrette.

This Pomegranate & Cottage Cheese Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The vibrant red pomegranate seeds pop against the fresh greens, making it not just tasty but also visually appealing. The creamy cottage cheese adds a rich element, balancing the tartness of the pomegranates. Drizzled with a homemade olive oil-balsamic vinaigrette, this salad is perfect for any meal.
To make this salad, start with a base of mixed greens. You can use a combination of spinach, arugula, and romaine for a variety of flavors. Next, sprinkle a generous amount of fresh pomegranate seeds over the greens. The seeds not only add a burst of sweetness but also a satisfying crunch.
For the dressing, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar. A pinch of salt and pepper enhances the flavor. Pour this vinaigrette over the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
This salad is not only refreshing but also packed with nutrients. It’s a great side dish or can be enjoyed as a light meal on its own. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s sure to impress anyone who tries it!
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, romaine)
- 1 cup fresh pomegranate seeds
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens and pomegranate seeds.
- Add the cottage cheese on top of the salad.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving.
- Toss gently to combine and enjoy!
Cottage Cheese And Fruit Salad

Cottage cheese and fruit salad is a delightful mix of creamy and fruity flavors. This dish is perfect for breakfast or a light snack. The combination of fresh fruits with the smooth texture of cottage cheese creates a refreshing treat.
In the image, you can see a vibrant bowl filled with cottage cheese topped with an array of colorful fruits. Strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, and mango add a burst of color and sweetness. A sprinkle of mint leaves on top gives it a fresh touch.
This salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. Cottage cheese is high in protein, while the fruits provide vitamins and antioxidants. It’s a simple way to enjoy a healthy meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup kiwi, sliced
- 1 cup mango, diced
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, add the cottage cheese.
- Top with sliced strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, and diced mango.
- Gently mix the fruits into the cottage cheese.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing salad!
Roasted Zucchini Mint Cottage Cheese Salad

This Roasted Zucchini Mint Cottage Cheese Salad is a refreshing and light dish that’s perfect for any meal. The thinly sliced zucchini, roasted to perfection, adds a lovely texture and flavor. Fresh mint brings a burst of brightness, while the lemon-olive oil dressing ties everything together beautifully.
The creamy cottage cheese serves as a base, providing a rich, protein-packed component. This salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner.
Let’s get into the ingredients and steps to whip up this delightful salad!
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: additional mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread the sliced zucchini on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Roast the zucchini in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly golden.
- In a bowl, mix the lemon juice with the chopped mint. Add the roasted zucchini and stir gently.
- To serve, spoon the cottage cheese into a bowl and top with the zucchini mixture. Garnish with additional mint leaves if desired.
I am a writer, editor, and publisher of Grillcuisines.com – an online blog dedicated to sharing grilling tips, accessories, and recipes to encourage more people to get outside and grill.
I’m off to find out the different types of grill foods, their seasons, and how to conduct outdoor cooking properly. I’ll also show you some of my grill-worthy cooking tools & accessories!

