Irresistibly Creamy Whipped Cottage Cheese with Marinated Tomatoes & Cucumber
Table of Contents
Whipped cottage cheese dip is the ultimate summer recipe, light, creamy, and bursting with fresh flavor. Imagine a cloud of smooth whipped cottage cheese and feta, topped with a vibrant mix of marinated cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and fragrant herbs. This isn’t just a snack; it’s a refreshing, healthy-ish dip that looks stunning, feels indulgent, and comes together in minutes, with absolutely zero cooking. You can visit our website for more delicious recipes.
Whether you’re looking for an elegant appetizer for guests, a protein-packed light lunch, or a healthy snack to enjoy poolside, this recipe is your new go-to. The magic lies in the contrast between the tangy, smooth cheese base and the zesty, crunchy vegetable topping. Let’s dive in!
This dish is more than just a simple appetizer; it’s a beautiful expression of the Mediterranean way of eating. It brings together core elements celebrated for their freshness and health benefits: sun-ripened tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant herbs like mint and parsley are staples in Greek and Levantine cuisine. The philosophy is simple: use high-quality, whole ingredients and let their natural flavors shine. The combination of creamy dairy, healthy fats from extra virgin olive oil, and fresh vegetables makes this dish not just delicious, but also wonderfully nourishing. Every spoonful is a reminder of coastal sunshine and simple, wholesome food.
Key Takeaways
- No-Cook Recipe: Perfect for warm weather, requiring absolutely no use of the stove or oven.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, with most of that time spent marinating.
- High in Protein: Cottage cheese provides a healthy, satisfying base that will keep you full.
- Packed with Fresh Flavors: A vibrant mix of fresh mint, parsley, and oregano brings the dish to life.
- Incredibly Versatile: Serve it as a dip, a spread for sandwiches, or a light and healthy salad bowl.
Flavors and Textures of Whipped Cottage Cheese Dip
This dish is a masterclass in contrasts. The foundation is a whipped blend of cottage cheese and feta, processed until it’s impossibly smooth and creamy, with a delightful tang from the feta. This luxurious base is then topped with a Mediterranean-inspired mixture of marinated tomatoes and cucumbers. The vegetables are macerated for 15 minutes in olive oil, salt, and fresh herbs, which softens them slightly while intensifying their flavors. The result is a perfect harmony of creamy, crunchy, tangy, and fresh in every single bite.
How to Make Whipped Cottage Cheese Dip with Marinated Veggies
This recipe is all about simple steps and fresh ingredients. The marinating time is key to developing the flavor of the topping.
| Yields: | 4 servings |
| Prep time: | 10 minutes |
| Marinating time: | 15 minutes |
| Total time: | 25 minutes |
Ingredients

| Amount | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 16 oz | 2% or full-fat cottage cheese (small curd recommended) |
| 4 oz | Block feta cheese |
| 2 cups | Grape tomatoes, quartered |
| 1 medium | Persian cucumber, sliced |
| ½ small | Red onion, diced finely |
| 2 tbsp | Chopped fresh Italian parsley |
| 2 tbsp | Chopped fresh mint |
| 3 tbsp + more | Extra virgin olive oil |
| ½ tsp | Sea salt |
| ¼ tsp | Ground black pepper |
| Optional | Crushed red pepper |
| For garnish | Fresh oregano |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Whipped Cottage Cheese: In the bowl of a food processor, combine the cottage cheese, crumbled feta cheese, and 2 tablespoons of the olive oil. Process on high until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl once or twice to ensure a uniform texture.
- Marinate the Vegetables: In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine the quartered grape tomatoes, sliced cucumber, finely diced red onion, chopped parsley, and chopped mint. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine everything. Set aside and let the flavors meld for at least 15 minutes.
- Assemble and Garnish: Spread the whipped cottage cheese base onto a large plate or into a shallow bowl, creating a smooth canvas. Use a spoon to create swirls on top. Spoon the marinated tomato and cucumber mixture over the cheese. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil, sprinkle with crushed red pepper (if using), and garnish with a few fresh oregano leaves.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the dish right away with warm pita bread, pita chips, crostini, or fresh vegetable sticks.
Whipped Cottage Cheese Dip Tips and Easy Variations
- Don’t Skip the Marinating: Letting the vegetables sit for 15 minutes is crucial. This step draws out some of the water from the tomatoes and allows the salt and herbs to deeply flavor the vegetables.
- Use a Food Processor: For the absolute creamiest, smoothest texture, a food processor is highly recommended. A high-powered blender can also work, but you may need to add a splash of water or lemon juice to get it moving.
- Add a Citrus Kick: For an extra layer of brightness, add a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice or lemon zest to the whipped cottage cheese.
- Other Add-ins: Feel free to add a handful of chickpeas or some chopped bell pepper to the marinated vegetable mixture for extra crunch and substance.
Conclusion
You’ve just created a stunning, healthy, and incredibly delicious dish that is sure to become a new favorite. This Whipped Cottage Cheese with Marinated Tomatoes & Cucumber is proof that simple, fresh ingredients can be transformed into something truly special with minimal effort. It’s the perfect recipe to have in your back pocket for any occasion that calls for something light, beautiful, and full of flavor.For more similar articles, visit this site.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
You can, but for the best flavor and creamiest texture, we highly recommend using 2% or full-fat cottage cheese. Low-fat versions can sometimes be more watery and less rich.
2. How long will this last in the refrigerator?
It’s best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store the whipped cottage cheese base and the marinated vegetables in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble just before serving.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the two main components ahead of time and store them separately as mentioned above. This makes for a very quick assembly when you’re ready to serve.
4. What else can I serve with this?
Besides pita and crostini, this dish is wonderful with a variety of crackers, toasted sourdough bread, or a colorful platter of fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, celery, and bell pepper strips for a gluten-free option.
Creamy Whipped Cottage Cheese with Marinated Tomatoes & Cucumber
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
- whipped cottage cheese and feta, topped with a vibrant tumble of fresh, marinated tomatoes, crisp cucumber,
and fragrant herbs. This light, refreshing, and incredibly flavorful dish comes together in minutes.
Ingredients
16 ounces 2% or full-fat cottage cheese4 ounces of block feta cheese2 cups grape tomatoes, quartered1 medium Persian cucumber, halved lengthwise and sliced½ small red onion, diced finely2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil½ teaspoon sea salt¼ teaspoon ground black pepperCrushed red pepper (optional)Fresh oregano for garnish
Instructions
Copiez-collez chaque étape, une par une.
Prepare the Whipped Cottage Cheese: In a food processor, combine the cottage cheese, crumbled feta, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Process until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.Marinate the Vegetables: In a separate bowl, combine the quartered grape tomatoes, sliced cucumber, diced red onion, parsley, mint, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix gently, then let the flavors meld for 15 minutes.Assemble the Dish: Spread the whipped cottage cheese onto a plate or shallow bowl. Top with the marinated tomato and cucumber mixture.Serve: Drizzle with additional olive oil and sprinkle with crushed red pepper, if desired. Garnish with fresh oregano. Serve with pita chips or crostini.
Instructions
Prepare the Whipped Cottage Cheese: In a food processor, combine the cottage cheese, crumbled feta, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Process until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.Marinate the Vegetables: In a separate bowl, combine the quartered grape tomatoes, sliced cucumber, diced red onion, parsley, mint, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix gently, then let the flavors meld for 15 minutes.Assemble the Dish: Spread the whipped cottage cheese onto a plate or shallow bowl. Top with the marinated tomato and cucumber mixture.Serve: Drizzle with additional olive oil and sprinkle with crushed red pepper, if desired. Garnish with fresh oregano. Serve with pita chips or crostini.
Notes
Whipped Cottage Cheese Dip Tips and Easy Variations
- Don’t Skip the Marinating: Letting the vegetables sit for 15 minutes is crucial. This step allows the salt and herbs to deeply flavor the vegetables.
- Use a Food Processor: For the absolute creamiest, smoothest texture, a food processor is highly recommended. A high-powered blender can also work.
- Add a Citrus Kick: For an extra layer of brightness, add a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice or lemon zest to the whipped cottage cheese.
- Other Add-ins: Feel free to add a handful of chickpeas or some chopped bell pepper to the marinated vegetable mixture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Dip, Snack, Light Lunch
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/4 of the recipe)
- Calories: 345 kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 810mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: whipped cottage cheese, cottage cheese dip, marinated tomatoes, cucumber tomato salad, no-cook appetizer, feta dip, healthy snack
