Mediterranean Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad

I love making Mediterranean Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad when I want something creamy, fresh, and satisfying without feeling too heavy. The cottage cheese adds a light, protein-packed creaminess that pairs beautifully with tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and bright Mediterranean flavors. For me, it’s the perfect balance of wholesome and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this pasta salad feels rich and creamy while still being refreshing. The cottage cheese creates a naturally creamy dressing without relying on heavy mayonnaise.

I also appreciate how colorful and versatile it is. With fresh vegetables, herbs, and simple seasonings, it works as a side dish, light lunch, or meal prep option. It holds up well in the refrigerator, which makes it convenient for busy days.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 cups cooked pasta (such as rotini or penne), cooled
1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

1. I cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and let it cool completely.

2. In a large bowl, I combine the cooled pasta and cottage cheese, mixing gently to coat.

3. I add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, kalamata olives, and feta cheese.

4. In a small bowl, I whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.

5. I pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss everything until well combined.

6. I stir in the chopped parsley and adjust seasoning if needed.

7. I refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: About 55 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add diced bell peppers or artichoke hearts for extra Mediterranean flavor. When I want more protein, I include grilled chicken or chickpeas.

If I prefer a smoother texture, I blend the cottage cheese before mixing it with the pasta. For a dairy-free version, I use a plant-based cottage cheese alternative and omit the feta.

storage/reheating

I store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits.

Before serving leftovers, I stir the salad well and add a small drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice if it needs freshening up. I enjoy this dish chilled, so reheating is not necessary.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare it several hours in advance. I find it tastes even better after chilling.

What type of pasta works best?

I prefer short pasta shapes like rotini or penne because they hold the creamy cottage cheese mixture well.

Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, I can use full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese depending on my preference. Both work well in this recipe.

Is this pasta salad vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegetarian as written.

How do I keep the pasta from sticking together?

I toss the pasta with a small drizzle of olive oil after draining if I’m not mixing it right away, which helps prevent sticking.

Conclusion

I find Mediterranean Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad to be a fresh, creamy, and satisfying dish that fits perfectly into my weekly rotation. The combination of tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and protein-rich cottage cheese creates a balanced and flavorful meal. Whenever I want something easy, wholesome, and full of Mediterranean-inspired taste, this salad is always a favorite in my kitchen.