Name: Cottage Cheese Salad with Roasted Chickpeas and Fresh Herbs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 15 oz can chickpeas (rinsed and drained); 1/2 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon cumin; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup diced cucumbers; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1/4 cup diced red onion; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon red vinegar; 1 tablespoon chopped dill; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley; Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 cups cottage cheese; 2 tablespoons feta cheese; Extra chopped herbs (for garnish); Pita chips or pita bread, for serving (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 13 reviews

If you’ve ever wanted a salad that’s bursting with texture, flavor, and nutrition all at once, the Cottage Cheese Salad with Roasted Chickpeas and Fresh Herbs Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine creamy cottage cheese paired with crispy, smoky roasted chickpeas and bright, fresh herbs, combined with juicy tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy dressing that wakes up every bite. It’s the perfect balance of hearty and refreshing, easy to throw together but impressive enough to serve any time you want a dish that feels both wholesome and special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A silver baking tray filled with a single layer of small, round roasted chickpeas that are golden brown with some darker spots. The tray shows some brown baked-on marks from seasoning and roasting. The tray is set on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and bright background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe relies on simple yet vibrant ingredients that bring a beautiful harmony of creaminess, crunch, and fresh herbal notes. Each component plays an important role in building the texture and flavor that make this salad so irresistible.

15 oz can chickpeas: Rinsed and drained, these become the crispy, protein-packed star of the salad once roasted.
1/2 tablespoon olive oil: Helps crisp up the chickpeas and carry the seasoning flavors beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth, giving the chickpeas amazing depth.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the chickpeas and the salad, bringing out all the flavors.
1/4 teaspoon cumin: Brings a hint of earthiness and spice to the roast.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right kick of subtle heat.
1 cup diced cucumbers: Provides a refreshing crunch and cool contrast to the warm chickpeas.
1 cup diced tomatoes: Juicy sweetness that brightens the whole salad.
1/4 diced red onion: Sharp and slightly sweet, it adds layers of flavor and bite.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Injects a bright, zesty acidity that lifts all the ingredients.
1 tablespoon red vinegar: Complements the lemon with a different tangy note for balance.
1 tablespoon chopped dill: Fresh and fragrant, dill pairs wonderfully with the creamy cottage cheese.
1 tablespoon chopped parsley: Adds an herbal freshness and vibrant green color.
Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste: For seasoning to perfection.
2 cups cottage cheese: The creamy, soft base that ties everything together.
2 tablespoons feta cheese: Crumbled on top for a salty, tangy garnish that’s a perfect finishing touch.
Extra herbs for garnish: To add fresh bursts of color and flavor.
Pita chips or pita bread (optional): Great for scooping up the salad and adding extra crunch.

How to Make Cottage Cheese Salad with Roasted Chickpeas and Fresh Herbs Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Chickpeas

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F. Spread the rinsed and drained chickpeas on a baking sheet, drizzle them with olive oil, and sprinkle the smoked paprika, kosher salt, cumin, and black pepper evenly. Toss well to coat all the chickpeas with the seasoning. Roast them for about 25 minutes until they’re golden and irresistibly crispy. These roasted chickpeas bring a wonderful texture and smoky flavor that makes this salad stand out.

Step 2: Prepare the Fresh Salad Mixture

While the chickpeas are roasting, combine the diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion in a medium bowl. Add the lemon juice, red vinegar, chopped dill, chopped parsley, and a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to marry the fresh flavors. This medley brings bright, crisp, and herbaceous notes that contrast beautifully with the hearty roasted chickpeas and creamy cottage cheese.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Now for the fun part: spread the cottage cheese evenly on a serving plate or platter. Spoon over the fresh cucumber, tomato, and herb mixture, then top everything with the crispy roasted chickpeas. Finally, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and extra herbs over the top for an aromatic finish. This layering creates a dynamic dish where every bite offers creamy softness, fresh brightness, and crunchy savoriness.

How to Serve Cottage Cheese Salad with Roasted Chickpeas and Fresh Herbs Recipe

The image shows a bowl with three main layers. The bottom layer is white and creamy cottage cheese spread evenly. The top layer consists of a colorful mix of diced red tomatoes, green cucumber pieces, and finely chopped red onions scattered over the cottage cheese. Small roasted golden brown chickpeas are spread on the veggies, adding texture. There are also crumbles of white cheese sprinkled on top. Two triangular pita chips, light brown in color, are placed upright on one side of the bowl. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding extra fresh herbs like dill or parsley as a garnish not only makes the salad look vibrant and inviting but elevates the flavor with bursts of freshness. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can also add a subtle finishing touch that makes your salad feel extra special.

Side Dishes

This salad is perfect as a standalone light meal, but it also pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread or crunchy pita chips. You can serve it alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as part of a larger mezze spread for an impressive and nutritious meal occasion.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, layer the salad in individual glass jars or clear bowls so the colors and textures shine through. Or, serve it over baby greens or arugula for added leafiness. You can even stuff the salad inside pita pockets for a portable, delicious lunch option that will delight your family or guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Cottage Cheese Salad with Roasted Chickpeas and Fresh Herbs Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The fresh vegetables and herbs will stay crisp for about 1-2 days, but keep the roasted chickpeas separate if possible to maintain their crunch.

Freezing

Because of the fresh vegetables and creamy cottage cheese, this salad does not freeze well. The texture and flavors can become compromised, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating

This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature. If you want to warm up the roasted chickpeas, you can quickly toast them in a skillet or oven to regain some crispness, but avoid heating the whole salad as the cottage cheese and fresh veggies lose their appealing textures.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chickpeas instead of canned?

While fresh chickpeas can be used, they require soaking and longer cooking times. For convenience and consistent results, canned chickpeas are recommended since they’re already cooked and ready to roast crispy.

Is this salad suitable for a high-protein diet?

Absolutely! Between the cottage cheese, roasted chickpeas, and feta, this salad is packed with plant-based and dairy protein, making it a great option for those looking to increase protein intake.

Can I substitute other herbs if I don’t have dill or parsley?

Yes! Fresh cilantro, basil, or chives would also pair nicely. Each herb brings its own unique character, so feel free to experiment according to your preference.

How can I make this dish vegan?

You can substitute the cottage cheese and feta with vegan alternatives such as plant-based cheeses or tofu to keep the creamy texture while making it dairy-free.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Definitely! Red bell peppers, radishes, or even avocado would add interesting textures and flavors. Just keep the balance so the original freshness and creaminess remain highlighted.

Final Thoughts

This Cottage Cheese Salad with Roasted Chickpeas and Fresh Herbs Recipe is one of those recipes that feels special yet is incredibly easy to put together. It’s a perfect dish to brighten your weeknight meals or impress guests with a fresh and satisfying salad that’s alive with flavor and texture. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do and find it becoming a favorite in your recipe collection!

Cottage Cheese Salad with Roasted Chickpeas and Fresh Herbs Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need