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Fresh High Protein Cucumber Salad

high protein cucumber salad - featured image

A refreshing and satisfying cucumber salad with a creamy, tangy dressing packed with protein from cottage cheese and Greek yogurt. Perfect for a quick healthy boost on hot days or as a light meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium English cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup low-fat small-curd cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup plain unsweetened Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon)
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or toasted almonds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and thinly slice 2 medium English cucumbers about 1/8 inch thick. Place in a mixing bowl.
  2. Optional: Thinly slice 1/4 cup red onion and soak in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce sharpness. Drain and pat dry.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup small-curd low-fat cottage cheese, 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 minced garlic clove, and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill. Stir or blend until smooth and creamy. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  4. Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and onions. Gently fold together using a spatula or wooden spoon, coating each slice without bruising.
  5. Optional: Sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or toasted almonds on top. Cover and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.

Notes

Use English or Persian cucumbers for best texture and less bitterness. Soak red onions in cold water to mellow sharpness. Blend cottage cheese and yogurt for a silky dressing. Toss salad just before serving to keep cucumbers crisp. Nuts add crunch but can be omitted for nut-free version. Can substitute silken tofu for a vegan protein boost.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, high protein salad, healthy salad, cottage cheese salad, Greek yogurt salad, quick salad, summer salad, low carb salad, vegetarian salad