Description
Mediterranean Cottage Cheese Pasta Salad is a creamy yet refreshing dish made with tender pasta, protein-rich cottage cheese, crisp vegetables, olives, and bright Mediterranean flavors for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked pasta (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
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool completely.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta and cottage cheese, mixing gently to coat.
- Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until well combined.
- Stir in chopped parsley and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.
Notes
- Add diced bell peppers or artichoke hearts for extra flavor.
- Include grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein.
- Blend cottage cheese for a smoother, creamier texture.
- Use plant-based cottage cheese and omit feta for a dairy-free version.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Refresh leftovers with a drizzle of olive oil or squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 390 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
