This Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad is a refreshing and light dish that brings together fresh vegetables, hearty gluten-free pasta, and a creamy protein-packed dressing. Perfectly balanced, it’s a dish that feels indulgent while being nutritious.
The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and the creamy tang of cottage cheese creates a delightful medley of textures and flavors. This salad is ideal for a quick lunch, a picnic side dish, or even a satisfying light dinner. Enjoy it fresh or prepare ahead for meal prep convenience.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 12 oz gluten-free pasta
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumbers, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, cottage cheese, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and parsley.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for an hour to enhance the flavors.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad
This creamy cottage cheese pasta salad is a delicious, high-protein, and gluten-free dish that’s perfect for meal prepping or serving as a light lunch or dinner. With fresh vegetables and a smooth, tangy dressing made from cottage cheese, it’s a unique twist on traditional pasta salads. The creamy texture of cottage cheese combined with the crunch of cucumbers, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and the sharpness of red onions makes this dish an irresistible option for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Salad:
- High in Protein: Cottage cheese is packed with protein, making this pasta salad a filling, nutritious meal. It’s ideal for vegetarians looking to boost their protein intake or anyone craving a healthy, satisfying dish.
- Gluten-Free: Made with gluten-free pasta, this recipe is suitable for anyone following a gluten-free diet. Feel free to swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta, whether it’s made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas.
- Customizable: The beauty of this pasta salad lies in its versatility. You can add your favorite veggies like bell peppers, olives, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients. You can also adjust the dressing to your taste, adding more lemon juice for a tangier flavor or a little honey for sweetness.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe is easy to make in advance, and it holds up well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it a great option for lunch throughout the week. Just give it a quick stir before serving.
Nutritional Benefits
This pasta salad is not only high in protein but also a good source of calcium, thanks to the cottage cheese. It provides essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin A from the parsley and tomatoes, and vitamin C from the cucumbers. With heart-healthy olive oil and a fresh burst of flavor from lemon juice, this dish is both delicious and nutritious.
Tips for Success:
- Let it chill: For the best flavor, allow the pasta salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This lets the dressing soak into the pasta and vegetables, making it even more flavorful.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs, such as basil or dill, can elevate the flavor and bring a vibrant touch to the dish. If you don’t have parsley on hand, feel free to use what you have.
- Make it Vegan: If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, simply swap the cottage cheese for a plant-based alternative, like cashew cheese or vegan cream cheese.
Storage Instructions
This creamy cottage cheese pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will only improve after a few hours of sitting, making it the perfect make-ahead meal.
Enjoy this healthy, protein-packed salad as a light lunch or as a side dish at your next gathering!
More About the Recipe:
This creamy cottage cheese pasta salad is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables, herbs, or even add-ins like olives, bell peppers, or roasted chicken for extra flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick and healthy lunch, a light dinner, or a potluck dish that everyone will enjoy, this pasta salad fits the bill.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This pasta salad stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prepping. Simply prepare a large batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for several meals. The flavors also have time to meld together, making it even more delicious the next day.
Customizations:
- Add protein: To make this salad even heartier, you can add grilled chicken, turkey, or chickpeas. For a vegan version, substitute cottage cheese with a dairy-free version or swap in some tofu.
- Veggie options: Get creative with your veggie mix! Try adding diced bell peppers, fresh spinach, or arugula for extra crunch and color. Roasted vegetables such as zucchini or sweet potato can also be great additions for more depth of flavor.
- Add a little kick: If you love a bit of spice, try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha sauce to the dressing.
Why Cottage Cheese Works So Well in Pasta Salad
Cottage cheese has a mild flavor and a creamy consistency, making it an ideal substitute for traditional mayo-based pasta salad dressings. It provides a creamy texture without the heaviness, and its mild tangy flavor enhances the overall taste of the salad. Additionally, it’s lower in fat than many dressings, which makes this salad a healthier alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This salad can be served as a standalone dish or paired with grilled vegetables, a side of bread, or a protein like salmon or chicken for a more substantial meal. It’s also great for BBQs, picnics, and potlucks, where its creamy texture and light, fresh taste will be a hit with guests.
Nutrition Highlights
Each serving of this salad is packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats from the olive oil and cottage cheese, making it a balanced option for those looking to nourish their bodies. The gluten-free pasta provides a satisfying base without any added heaviness, so you won’t feel sluggish after enjoying a generous portion.
Enjoy this refreshing and filling creamy cottage cheese pasta salad as a tasty, nutritious addition to your meal rotation. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a dish to serve at your next gathering, it’s sure to impress!
Conclusion:
This creamy cottage cheese pasta salad is a perfect balance of health and flavor. With its creamy texture, vibrant vegetables, and high-protein cottage cheese base, it’s a dish that will satisfy both your taste buds and your nutritional needs. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or bringing it to a potluck, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to make, customizable, and full of fresh ingredients, it’s a simple yet delicious addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy this gluten-free, vegetarian dish any time you need a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on taste!