A vibrant and refreshing salad featuring tender beets, creamy cottage cheese, and a tangy balsamic dressing. Fresh herbs and crunchy walnuts add depth to this simple yet nutritious dish, making it perfect as a light meal or side. With its beautiful color and balanced flavors, this salad is both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutrient-rich – Packed with protein, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Quick and easy – Ready in just 10 minutes with minimal effort.
- Perfectly balanced – The creamy cottage cheese complements the earthy beets and tangy dressing.
- Versatile – Enjoy it as a side dish, light lunch, or even a snack.
- Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian – A great choice for different dietary needs.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 medium beets, cooked and peeled
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Directions
- Dice the cooked beets into bite-sized pieces.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine the diced beets and cottage cheese.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss lightly to coat.
- Sprinkle with chopped dill or parsley and add walnuts if desired.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a little heat.
- Extra Crunch: Swap walnuts for toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds.
- Citrus Zing: Add orange or grapefruit segments for a refreshing burst of flavor.
- Leafy Addition: Serve over a bed of arugula or spinach for more greens.
- Goat Cheese Alternative: Replace cottage cheese with crumbled goat cheese for a tangier taste.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the salad and dressing separately, then combine just before serving for the freshest texture.
- Reheating: No need to reheat—this salad is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned beets instead of fresh?
Yes! Canned beets work well—just drain them before using.
2. How do I cook fresh beets?
Boil, roast, or steam them until tender, then peel and dice.
3. Is there a dairy-free alternative to cottage cheese?
You can use dairy-free ricotta or a plant-based yogurt for a similar texture.
4. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but add the dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.
5. What can I serve with this salad?
It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or whole-grain bread for a complete meal.
6. Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar can be used instead of balsamic.
7. How do I keep the beets from staining everything?
Toss them with a little oil before mixing, or keep them separate until serving.
8. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots make great additions.
9. What herbs work best for this recipe?
Dill, parsley, or mint all complement the flavors beautifully.
10. Is this recipe good for weight loss?
Yes! It’s high in protein and fiber while being low in calories, making it a great healthy option.
Conclusion
This Cottage Cheese and Beet Salad is a deliciously simple way to enjoy fresh, wholesome ingredients in a refreshing dish. Whether served as a light meal, a side, or part of a healthy spread, it offers a satisfying combination of flavors and textures. Try it today and enjoy a nutritious, vibrant salad with every bite!
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Cottage Cheese and Beet Salad
This Cottage Cheese and Beet Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish featuring tender beets, creamy cottage cheese, and a tangy balsamic dressing. Topped with fresh herbs and crunchy walnuts, this refreshing salad is perfect as a light meal, side dish, or healthy snack. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and protein-rich!
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium beets, cooked and peeled
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beets:
- Dice the cooked beets into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine diced beets and cottage cheese.
- Drizzle with the prepared dressing and toss lightly to coat.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Sprinkle with chopped dill or parsley.
- Add walnuts if using.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: Keep the dressing separate and mix just before serving.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Use plant-based ricotta or dairy-free yogurt.
- Extra Crunch: Swap walnuts for toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds.
- Flavor Boost: Add orange or grapefruit segments for a citrusy twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salads
- Method: No-Cook, Assembly
- Cuisine: Vegetarian, Healthy
- Diet: Vegetarian
