Cottage Cheese Chickpea Salad (The Ultimate Creamy, High-Protein Recipe!)

A close-up view of the high-protein chickpea salad, showing the texture of the mashed chickpeas and fresh herbs in a creamy dressing.

Cottage Cheese Chickpea Salad (The Ultimate Creamy, High-Protein Recipe!)

This Cottage Cheese Chickpea Salad is the ultimate creamy, high-protein meal. Made with simple ingredients and ready in 15 minutes, it's a healthy, mayo-free recipe perfect for a quick lunch, side dish, or delicious meal prep.

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Prep Time 15

Total Time 15

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Lunch, Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 185

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1 cup full-fat cottage cheese Ensures the creamiest dressing.
1 can (15-ounce) chickpeas Rinsed and drained well.
2 stalks celery Finely diced.
1/4 cup red onion Finely chopped.
1/4 cup fresh dill Chopped.
2 tbsp lemon juice Freshly squeezed.
1 tbsp dijon mustard
1/2 tsp salt Or to taste.
1/4 tsp black pepper Or to taste.

Equipment

1 Blender or Food Processor
1 Large Bowl

Instructions

In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
In a large bowl, add the drained and rinsed chickpeas. Use a fork or a potato masher to gently mash about half of them, leaving the rest whole for texture.
Pour the creamy cottage cheese dressing over the mashed chickpeas. Add the diced celery, finely chopped red onion, and fresh dill.
Stir everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
For the best flavor, cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
Variations: Add a pinch of cayenne for spice, chopped bell peppers for more crunch, or a scoop of mashed avocado for extra creaminess.