Description
A light and creamy Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad that combines smooth blended cottage cheese with tender chicken, fresh celery, red onion, and dill. This quick and easy salad is perfect for a healthy lunch or a protein-packed snack, ready in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad Base
- 1 cup cottage cheese (whole or 2%)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Mix-ins
- 3 cups cooked chicken (chopped, rotisserie chicken recommended)
- ⅓ cup finely diced celery
- ¼ cup finely diced red onion
- 1½ to 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
Instructions
- Blend Cottage Cheese: Add the cottage cheese to a blender or food processor and blend until completely smooth, ensuring a creamy base for the salad.
- Combine Dressing Ingredients: Transfer the blended cottage cheese to a medium bowl. Whisk in the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, sugar, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Add Chicken and Vegetables: Fold in the chopped cooked chicken, finely diced celery, red onion, and chopped fresh dill gently to evenly coat all ingredients with the dressing.
- Adjust and Chill: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. For best flavor, chill the salad for 20 to 30 minutes before serving, though it can be served immediately if preferred.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor.
- Blending the cottage cheese creates a smoother texture compared to using it straight.
- Adjust lemon juice and dill amounts based on your taste preference for more brightness or herbaceousness.
- This salad works well as a sandwich filling, over greens, or served with crackers.
- Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
