Experience a taste of the Mediterranean with this delightful Greek Whipped Cottage Cheese Dip. Creamy, tangy, and topped with fresh veggies, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil, it’s a nutritious and flavorful addition to any snack or appetizer table. Whip it up in minutes and enjoy the protein-packed goodness that everyone will love!
Budget Information
The total cost of making this Greek Whipped Cottage Cheese Dip is approximately $10.00, making it about $3.33 per serving. Here’s the breakdown:
- 1½ cups low-fat cottage cheese: $3.00
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: $0.20
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: $0.30
- 1 clove garlic: $0.10
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt: $0.02
- 1 teaspoon chopped dill: $0.15
- 1 teaspoon chopped mint: $0.15
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives: $0.25
- 4 Persian cucumbers: $1.00
- 12 cherry tomatoes: $1.50
- 12 pitted kalamata olives: $2.00
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped red onion: $0.50
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: $0.50
- Optional for serving (pita chips/vegetables): $1.00
Why This Recipe Works
This Greek Whipped Cottage Cheese Dip is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a mini nutritional powerhouse! The creamy cottage cheese gets an upgrade, transforming from lumpy to luxuriously smooth in a flash—perfect for the texture-sensitive eaters among us. With the freshness of herbs and the vibrant crunch of vegetables, this dip serves as a high-protein snack that’s both satisfying and filling. It’s quick to make, making it ideal for busy days while still being a show-stopper when entertaining guests. Talk about a win-win!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your own Greek Whipped Cottage Cheese Dip:
- 1½ cups low-fat cottage cheese – $3.00 (Substitution: Try Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest – $0.20
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice – $0.30
- 1 clove garlic, roughly chopped – $0.10
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt – $0.02
- 1 teaspoon chopped dill – $0.15 (Substitution: Use fresh parsley if you prefer)
- 1 teaspoon chopped mint – $0.15
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives – $0.25
- 4 Persian cucumbers, finely chopped – $1.00 (Substitution: Use English cucumbers)
- 12 cherry tomatoes, halved – $1.50 (Substitution: Substitute with a sliced heirloom tomato)
- 12 pitted kalamata olives, sliced – $2.00
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped red onion – $0.50 (Substitution: Green onions work well too)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil – $0.50
- Optional for serving: Pita chips, crackers, or veggies (carrots, celery, etc.) – $1.00
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Start by placing the cottage cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, and kosher salt into the bowl of your food processor. This is where the magic happens—blend everything until it reaches a delightful creamy consistency, about 30 seconds should do the trick. Pause to scrape down the sides if needed and blend again until perfectly smooth. You’ll be amazed at how lovely this looks!
Step 2: Once your base is smooth, it’s time to add in the fresh herbs. Gently stir in the chopped dill, mint, and chives by hand. This step infuses the dip with vibrant flavors and fragrant aromas, making it irresistibly inviting. Pour the mixture into a shallow serving bowl and spread it out evenly, creating a lovely canvas for your toppings.
Step 3: Now comes the fun part—adding the toppings! Scatter the finely chopped cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced kalamata olives, and red onion artfully across the surface of the dip. For that finishing touch, drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the top, letting it glisten invitingly. Serve immediately with pita chips, fresh vegetables, or whatever delights your palate!
Nutritional Facts
Per serving (½ cup of dip plus toppings):
- Calories: 151.5
- Protein: 10.5g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Total Fat: 10.5g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Sugar: 3.5g
- Sodium: 484.5mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
This creamy dip is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just keep it covered in an airtight container to lock in freshness. If you’re meal-prepping, consider dividing it into small containers and store the toppings separately. This way, you can grab a quick snack on the go without losing the crunch of the veggies!
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Greek Whipped Cottage Cheese Dip with pita chips or wedges for a classic pairing. Feeling colorful? Create a crudité platter with an assortment of vibrant veggies such as carrots, celery, radishes, and fennel to dunk into the creamy goodness. It’s also great as a spread on whole grain bread or wraps for a lovely lunch option!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Got some extra toppings? Feel free to experiment! Feta cheese, roasted red peppers, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the dip to new heights. And remember, it’s all about balance—if you’re looking for a lighter version, simply omit the olive oil. Lastly, don’t hesitate to adjust the herbs to suit your taste; you can mix and match as you please!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use full-fat cottage cheese instead of low-fat?
Yes, using full-fat cottage cheese will give you a richer and creamier dip. Go for what you love!
Is this dip gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just ensure that the dippers you choose are gluten-free, such as rice crackers or fresh veggies.
Can I make this dip in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dip up to 4 days ahead. Just remember to store it in an airtight container and keep the veggies separate until you’re ready to serve.
Can this dip be frozen?
While the dip can be frozen, it may alter the texture once thawed. If possible, it’s better enjoyed fresh!
What other vegetables can I add as toppings?
You can add sliced bell peppers, radishes, artichoke hearts, or even avocados for a creamy twist! The possibilities are endless!
