This smashed cucumber salad with cottage cheese and feta is a fresh, creamy and protein-packed side dish that’s light, flavorful and easy to make.

This smashed cucumber salad with cottage cheese and feta is a fresh and light side dish with tasty bright flavors. The dressing is a mix of cottage cheese, feta, lemon juice and dill, making it zesty, creamy and herby. When tossed with smashed cucumbers, it’s a refreshing and flavorful salad that you'll love!

Most creamy cucumber salads are made with mayo or sour cream, which are high in calories and fat. This one is different because it’s made with cottage cheese and feta, which adds creaminess and protein without the extra calories. And it’s just as delicious and satisfying!

Not only that, it's easy to prepare. Smashing the cucumbers helps them soak up the flavor, and the rest is just chopping and mixing. The salad takes just 20 minutes to make and pairs well with grilled chicken, salmon or most any main you’re serving.

Ingredients

Low-fat (2% milkfat) cottage cheese: We use a low-fat cottage cheese to increase the protein level. However, you can use a higher-fat cottage cheese since it only slightly reduces the level of protein.

Low-fat crumbled feta: Feta adds a slightly salty flavor and enhances the creaminess of the cottage cheese.

Olive oil and lemon juice: They thin out the cottage cheese dressing, making it smoother while adding a bright flavor.

English or Persian cucumbers: We recommend English or Persian cucumbers since they have fewer seeds and a sweeter flavor.

Red onion: Red onion adds a mild and slightly sweet onion flavor.

Fresh dill: Fresh dill adds a herby flavor to the salad. Start with a ½ tablespoon and add more to taste if desired. If you don’t have fresh dill, use 1 teaspoon or less of dried dill.

Garlic powder: Garlic powder adds a subtle garlic flavor without being overpowering. Fresh minced garlic can be used for a stronger taste.

How to Make

Prepare the cucumbers: Quarter the cucumbers lengthwise and place them skin-side up on a cutting board. Using the flat side of a knife, gently press down to smash them along their length. Cut into ½- to 1-inch pieces and lightly sprinkle with salt to draw out moisture. Let them drain in a colander for 15 minutes, then pat dry with a paper towel. Smashing helps the cucumbers absorb the dressing.

Make the dressing: In a food processor, combine cottage cheese, feta, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder and chopped dill. Pulse until somewhat smooth. Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired.

Mix the salad: In a large serving bowl, combine the smashed cucumbers, red onion, dressing and crumbled feta. Toss until everything is evenly coated.

Finish: Taste and adjust with salt, pepper or fresh dill as needed. Give it a final toss, then let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish

How to Store

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The cucumbers will release moisture over time, so drain any excess liquid and toss again before serving. For the best texture, enjoy the salad fresh.

More Cottage Cheese Salads

If you try this recipe, we would love to hear your feedback! Leave a comment, rate it, and tag @lowcarbsimplified on your photo of this recipe on Instagram or Facebook. We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do!

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