Fresh Zucchini Cottage Cheese Salad

This refreshing cottage cheese and zucchini salad combines creamy protein with crisp vegetables for a perfect light lunch or side dish. The bright mint and lemon dressing transforms simple ingredients into something special that takes just minutes to prepare.

I first created this salad during a particularly hot summer when I needed something satisfying yet cooling. Now it's my go to lunch when fresh zucchini appears at the farmers market each year.

Ingredients

• Cottage cheese: Provides a creamy protein rich base that makes this salad substantial enough for a meal
• Zucchini: Adds a refreshing crunch and mild flavor that pairs beautifully with dairy
• Fresh mint: Brightens the entire dish with cooling herbaceous notes
• Lemon juice: Brings necessary acidity that balances the creaminess of the cheese
• Olive oil: Creates silky texture and adds healthy fats that help your body absorb nutrients
• Salt and pepper: Enhance all the flavors and bring the simple ingredients together

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the vegetables:

Wash zucchini thoroughly and trim the ends. Slice them as thinly as possible using a sharp knife or mandoline for best texture. If using a knife aim for slices around 1/8 inch thick. Chop the mint leaves just before adding to maintain their vibrant flavor and color.

Create the base:

In a large bowl add the cottage cheese and spread it evenly. The texture should be creamy but with visible curds which add wonderful texture to the finished salad. If your cottage cheese seems watery drain it briefly in a fine mesh strainer.

Combine main ingredients:

Add the sliced zucchini and chopped mint to the cottage cheese. The zucchini should be raw to maintain its crispness and the mint should be freshly chopped for maximum flavor. Distribute these ingredients evenly throughout the cheese.

Make the dressing:

In a separate small bowl whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil until emulsified. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The dressing should taste bright and slightly tangy as it will mellow when mixed with the other ingredients.

Finish the salad:

Pour the dressing over the cottage cheese mixture and fold together gently with a rubber spatula until all ingredients are lightly coated. Take care not to overmix which can break down the cottage cheese curds and make the salad watery.

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I particularly love using a mixture of green and yellow zucchini in this recipe when available. The two colors create a beautiful contrast against the white cottage cheese and make what is essentially a simple salad look absolutely stunning on the table.

Seasonal Variations

During summer months enhance this salad with other garden bounty like cherry tomatoes or diced bell peppers. The sweetness pairs wonderfully with the tangy dressing and creamy cheese.

Make It Ahead

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh you can prepare components in advance. Slice the zucchini and store in a sealed container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Mix the dressing and refrigerate separately then combine everything just before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor try grilling or briefly sautéing half the zucchini while leaving the rest raw for textural contrast.

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Enjoy this fresh and vibrant salad as a healthy and satisfying addition to your meals!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

While you can prepare the components ahead of time, it's best to assemble just before serving. The zucchini will release moisture and the dressing can make the cottage cheese watery if left too long. If needed, you can slice the zucchini and prepare the dressing up to 24 hours in advance, then combine everything when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for fresh mint?

Fresh basil or dill work wonderfully as alternatives to mint in this salad. Basil will add a more aromatic, slightly sweet flavor, while dill contributes a distinctive tanginess that pairs well with the cottage cheese. Parsley can also work for a milder herb flavor.

→ How can I make this salad more filling?

To transform this into a heartier meal, consider adding cooked quinoa, farro, or chickpeas for complex carbohydrates and additional protein. Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or bell peppers can add more vegetables, while toasted nuts or seeds like pine nuts or sunflower seeds will contribute healthy fats and a satisfying crunch.

→ What type of cottage cheese works best?

Small or medium curd cottage cheese with 2% or 4% milk fat content works best for this salad. The higher fat content provides better flavor and creaminess that complements the fresh vegetables. For a tangier profile, you could also try using half cottage cheese and half Greek yogurt.

→ Can I spiralize the zucchini instead of slicing it?

Spiralized zucchini works beautifully in this salad and creates an interesting texture variation. The curly zucchini noodles will hold the dressing well and integrate nicely with the cottage cheese. If using spiralized zucchini, you might want to let it sit with a sprinkle of salt for 10 minutes and pat dry to remove excess moisture.

→ Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes, this salad is generally keto-friendly as it's low in carbohydrates while providing protein and healthy fats. Zucchini is a low-carb vegetable, and cottage cheese offers protein with moderate fat. Just be sure to check your cottage cheese label, as carb content can vary by brand, and opt for full-fat versions for the best keto macronutrient ratio.