Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cottage Cheese and Zucchini Salad is ideal for those who crave healthy, quick, and easy recipes. It’s packed with protein from the cottage cheese, loaded with fiber from fresh zucchini, and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices. Plus, it’s low-carb, gluten-free, and perfect for meal prepping!
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Cottage cheese
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Fresh zucchini
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Olive oil
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Lemon juice
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Fresh herbs (such as dill, parsley, or basil)
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Salt
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Pepper
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Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, sunflower seeds, or avocado slices
Directions
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Wash the zucchini thoroughly and cut it into thin ribbons or rounds.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the zucchini with a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of lemon juice.
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Add cottage cheese to the bowl and gently mix until the zucchini is well-coated.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Sprinkle fresh herbs over the salad and toss lightly to combine.
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Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
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Garnish with optional toppings like cherry tomatoes or sunflower seeds for extra texture and flavor.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 2 to 4 people, depending on portion size. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare and does not require any cooking.
Variations
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Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a full meal.
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Go Mediterranean: Add black olives, feta cheese, and cucumber slices.
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Spicy kick: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
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Creamier texture: Blend some of the cottage cheese with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice to create a dressing.
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Different veggies: Swap or add cucumbers, radishes, or carrots for extra crunch.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the zucchini may release water over time and become soggy. Reheating is not recommended, as the fresh textures are key to the dish’s appeal.
FAQs
How do I keep zucchini from getting watery in the salad?
Lightly salt the zucchini and let it sit for 5–10 minutes before assembling the salad, then pat dry to remove excess moisture.
Can I use cooked zucchini instead of raw?
Yes, you can lightly sauté or grill the zucchini, but make sure it cools before mixing it with the cottage cheese.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
It can be prepped a few hours ahead, but for the best texture, assemble just before serving.
Can I substitute another cheese for cottage cheese?
Ricotta or fresh mozzarella are great substitutes if you prefer a different texture.
What herbs go best with this salad?
Fresh dill, parsley, basil, and mint all pair wonderfully with zucchini and cottage cheese.
How can I make this salad vegan?
Use a plant-based cottage cheese alternative made from almond or coconut milk.
What type of zucchini should I use?
Any variety of fresh zucchini will work; smaller zucchinis tend to be more tender and flavorful.
Can I add nuts for crunch?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds are excellent additions.
How long does cottage cheese last once opened?
Once opened, cottage cheese should be consumed within 5 to 7 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.
Is this salad low-carb?
Yes, both cottage cheese and zucchini are low in carbohydrates, making this salad a great option for low-carb diets.
Conclusion
Cottage Cheese and Zucchini Salad is a vibrant, nourishing dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch, a hearty side dish, or a simple snack, this recipe is a perfect way to celebrate fresh, wholesome ingredients with minimal effort. Try it once, and it just might become a staple in your healthy meal rotation!
Cottage Cheese and Zucchini Salad
Fresh, creamy, and packed with protein, this Cottage Cheese and Zucchini Salad is a refreshing low-carb dish perfect for healthy meals, meal prepping, or a light lunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2–4 servings
- Category: Salad, Side Dish, Light Meal
- Method: no-cook / Raw preparation
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Cottage cheese
Fresh zucchini
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or basil)
Salt
Pepper
Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, sunflower seeds, avocado slices
Instructions
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Wash zucchini thoroughly and cut into thin ribbons or rounds.
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In a large bowl, drizzle zucchini with olive oil and lemon juice.
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Add cottage cheese and gently mix until combined.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Sprinkle with fresh herbs and toss lightly.
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Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes.
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Garnish with optional toppings if desired.
Notes
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For less watery zucchini, lightly salt and drain before using.
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Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
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Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
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Best enjoyed fresh; not recommended for reheating.
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