Cottage Cheese Salad (Creamy, Crunchy & High-Protein)
Description
This Cottage Cheese Salad is a creamy, savory, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy days when you want something quick, nutritious, and filling. Packed with protein-rich cottage cheese, sweet green peas, crispy bacon, fresh herbs, and a touch of cheddar, every bite delivers a delicious mix of textures and flavors. The cottage cheese creates a thick, creamy base without needing heavy mayo, keeping the salad lighter while still rich and comforting. It’s ideal for meal prep — simply portion into jars or containers and enjoy straight from the fridge for lunch, snacks, or a post-workout boost. Fresh, crunchy, cheesy, and incredibly easy, this recipe comes together in just minutes and tastes even better after chilling.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
2 cups cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
1 cup frozen peas, thawed and drained
4 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 green onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
2 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (optional for extra creaminess)
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp black pepper
Salt to taste
Optional: diced celery or cucumber for extra crunch
Instructions
1. Prep ingredients
Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble into small pieces. Thaw peas and drain well so the salad doesn’t get watery. Chop herbs and green onions.
2. Mix the base
In a large bowl, add cottage cheese, mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the crunch & flavor
Fold in peas, bacon, cheddar cheese, green onions, and herbs. Gently mix until everything is evenly combined.
4. Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 20–30 minutes to let the flavors blend and the salad thicken.
5. Serve or meal prep
Spoon into jars or bowls. Enjoy cold with crackers, toast, lettuce wraps, or straight from the spoon.
Tips
Add boiled eggs for extra protein
Swap bacon for turkey bacon or chickpeas
Keeps fresh 3–4 days in the fridge
Creamy, crunchy, and completely crave-worthy!