Cottage Cheese Smashed Cucumber Salad

February 11, 2025

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Published: Feb 11, 2025 by Cathy Chenard · This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

This smashed cucumber salad with cottage cheese and feta is a fresh, creamy, and protein-packed side dish that’s light, flavorful and easy to make.

cottage cheese smashed cucumber salad in a bowl topped with fresh dill

This smashed cucumber salad with cottage cheese and feta is a fresh and light side dish with bright, refreshing flavors. The dressing is a mix of cottage cheese, feta, lemon juice and dill, making it zesty, creamy, fresh and herby. Tossed with crisp smashed cucumbers, it’s a cool and flavorful salad that you’ll love!

Most creamy cucumber salads are made with mayo or sour cream, which are high in calories and fat. This one is different because it’s made with cottage cheese and feta, which adds creaminess and protein without the extra calories. And it’s just as delicious and satisfying!

The best part? It’s quick and easy! Smashing the cucumbers helps them soak up the flavor, and the rest is just chopping and mixing. The salad takes just 20 minutes to make and pairs well with grilled chicken, salmon or most any main you’re serving.

Ingredients

Low-fat (2% milkfat) cottage cheese: We use a low-fat cottage cheese to increase the protein level. However, you can use a higher-fat cottage cheese since it only slightly reduces the level of protein.

Low-fat crumbled feta: Offers a salty, tangy flavor that enhances the creaminess of the cottage cheese.

Olive oil and lemon juice: These help thin the cottage cheese dressing, making it smoother and adding a bright, rich flavor.

English or Persian cucumbers: We recommend English or Persian cucumbers since they have fewer seeds and a sweeter flavor.

Red onion: Red onion adds a mild, slightly sweet onion flavor.

Fresh dill: Gives the salad a herby, fresh flavor. Start with a ½ tablespoon and add more to taste if desired. If you don’t have fresh dill, use 1 teaspoon or less of dried dill.

Garlic powder: Garlic powder adds a subtle garlic flavor without being overpowering. Fresh minced garlic can be used for a stronger taste.

How to Make

Prepare the cucumbers: Quarter the cucumbers lengthwise and place them skin-side up on a cutting board. Using the flat side of a knife, gently press down to smash them along their length. Cut into ½- to 1-inch pieces and lightly sprinkle with salt to draw out moisture. Let them drain in a colander for 15 minutes, then pat dry with a paper towel. Smashing helps the cucumbers absorb the dressing.

Make the dressing: In a food processor, combine cottage cheese, feta, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder and chopped dill. Pulse until somewhat smooth. Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired.

Pulsing dressing together in a food processor

Mix the salad: In a large serving bowl, combine the smashed cucumbers, red onion, dressing and crumbled feta. Toss until everything is evenly coated.

Finish: Taste and adjust with salt, pepper or fresh dill as needed. Give it a final toss, then let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish

Cucumbers, onion, dressing and feta combined in a bowl

Finished cottage cheese cucumber salad in a bowl

How to Store

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The cucumbers will release moisture over time, so drain any excess liquid and toss again before serving. For the best texture, enjoy the salad fresh.

More Cottage Cheese Salads

If you try this recipe, we would love to hear your feedback! Leave a comment, rate it, and tag @lowcarbsimplified on your photo of this recipe on Instagram or Facebook. We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do!

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