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Cottage Cheese & Chickpea Salad – High-Protein, Fresh, and Perfectly Balanced

If you’re searching for a simple, nourishing meal that’s packed with protein and freshness, this Cottage Cheese and Chickpea Salad is exactly what you need. It’s creamy yet light, hearty yet refreshing, and incredibly versatile. With protein-rich cottage cheese, fiber-filled chickpeas, and crisp vegetables, this salad is ideal for quick lunches, light dinners, or post-workout meals. What makes this salad stand out is its nutritional balance. Chickpeas provide plant-based protein and sustained energy, while cottage cheese adds creaminess and a powerful protein boost without heaviness. Fresh vegetables and herbs bring crunch, color, and brightness, making every bite satisfying and clean. Perfect for busy days, meal prep, or anyone focused on healthy eating, high-protein meals, and simple no-cook recipes, this salad is as practical as it is delicious.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 5 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Protein Base
  • 1½ cups cottage cheese full-fat or low-fat
Legumes
  • 1 can 15 oz chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Vegetables
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • ½ cucumber diced
  • ¼ red onion finely chopped
Fresh Herbs
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill or cilantro chopped
Dressing
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Ingredient Notes:
  • Cottage cheese provides slow-digesting protein.
  • Chickpeas add fiber texture, and plant protein.
  • Fresh herbs elevate flavor without extra calories.

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl (for dressing)
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Tip: Use a wide bowl to gently mix without breaking the chickpeas.

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas
  1. Drain and rinse chickpeas thoroughly.
  2. Pat dry gently with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
  1. Dice cucumber, halve tomatoes, and finely chop red onion.
  2. Chop fresh herbs finely.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
  1. In a large bowl, add cottage cheese and chickpeas.
  2. Add cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and herbs.
Step 5: Dress and Mix
  1. Pour dressing over the salad.
  2. Gently fold until evenly combined.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
  1. Taste and adjust salt or lemon juice if needed.
Step 7: Chill (Optional)
  1. Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes for best flavor.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Serving Note
Best served chilled
Do not reheat
Tip: Stir gently before serving to refresh texture.
🥄 Variations
Extra Protein
Add cooked chicken breast or boiled eggs
Mediterranean Style
Add olives and diced bell peppers
Spicy Version
Add chili flakes or black pepper
Low-Fat Option
Use low-fat cottage cheese
Crunch Boost
Add diced celery or radishes
❓ 10 FAQs
Is this salad high in protein?
Yes, cottage cheese and chickpeas provide excellent protein.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, fully vegetarian.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep.
Can I use flavored cottage cheese?
Plain is best for balance.
Is this salad filling?
Yes, very satisfying and nutrient-dense.
Can I replace chickpeas?
Yes, white beans work well.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, mild and creamy.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely—very flexible.
What’s the best time to eat it?
Lunch, post-workout, or light dinner.
🏁 Conclusion
This cottage cheese and chickpea salad proves that healthy eating can be simple, fast, and delicious. With creamy texture, fresh crunch, and powerful nutrition, it’s a meal that fuels your body while satisfying your taste buds.
Whether you’re focused on high-protein meals, clean eating, or just need a quick no-cook option, this salad fits effortlessly into your routine. Once you try it, you’ll keep coming back to it again and again.