Cucumber Cottage Cheese Dip

This Cucumber Cottage Cheese Dip is a creamy, refreshing, and protein-packed recipe perfect for light meals, snacks, or party platters. It blends smooth cottage cheese with salty feta, topped with tangy marinated cucumbers and fresh herbs for a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired dish you can make in just 10 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dip is healthy, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. The whipped cottage cheese base is rich in protein and silky smooth, while the cucumber topping adds crunch, zest, and spice. It’s great with pita bread, crackers, or veggies, and works equally well as a side, appetizer, or light lunch. Best of all, it requires no cooking—just blend, toss, and serve.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• cottage cheese

• feta cheese

• water (to adjust consistency)

• cucumbers (sliced)

• sumac

• crushed red pepper flakes

• salt

• black pepper

• olive oil

• lime juice

• fresh basil (chopped)

Directions

1. Blend the base:
   In a food processor, combine cottage cheese, feta cheese, and 2 tablespoons of water. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more water 1 tablespoon at a time until the desired texture is reached.

2. Marinate the cucumbers:
   In a large bowl, mix together sliced cucumbers, sumac, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, olive oil, and lime juice. Toss well to coat.

3. Assemble the dip:
   Spread the whipped cottage cheese mixture onto a serving plate in an even layer.

4. Top and serve:
   Spoon the marinated cucumber mixture over the cheese base. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top.

5. Serve with:
   Warm pita bread, crackers, or sliced vegetables.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 8

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds.

• Herb swap: Try mint or dill instead of basil for a different flavor.

• Add garlic: Blend in a clove of garlic for more depth in the cottage cheese base.

• Use yogurt: Replace half the cottage cheese with plain Greek yogurt for a tangier dip.

• Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of hot chili oil.

Storage/Reheating

• To store: Keep the cottage cheese base and cucumber topping in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.

• Shelf life: Best enjoyed within 1–2 days for peak freshness and texture.

• Not freezer-friendly: The cucumbers will lose their texture when thawed, and the dip may separate.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, but full-fat cottage cheese will give you a creamier, richer result.

What is sumac and can I substitute it?

Sumac is a tangy, lemony spice common in Middle Eastern cooking. If unavailable, use a bit of lemon zest or extra lime juice.

Can I skip the feta?

You can, but the feta adds saltiness and bold flavor. If omitting, adjust the seasoning to taste.

What cucumbers work best?

Use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers for fewer seeds and a crisp texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Blend the cottage cheese base and marinate the cucumbers ahead, then assemble just before serving.

What can I serve this with?

Warm pita bread, naan, tortilla chips, crackers, or veggie sticks all work beautifully.

Is this dip gluten-free?

Yes, the dip itself is gluten-free. Just be sure to serve with gluten-free dippers if needed.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Try using dairy-free cottage cheese and feta substitutes. Texture may vary slightly.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil is recommended for best flavor, but a small pinch of dried basil can be used in a pinch.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a light kick from red pepper flakes. Reduce or omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.

Conclusion

This Cucumber Cottage Cheese Dip is a delicious blend of creamy, zesty, and fresh elements that comes together in minutes. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a vibrant appetizer, or a unique party dip, this recipe checks all the boxes. Healthy, flavorful, and incredibly simple—it’s one you’ll make again and again.

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