Short Intro
Hey there!
If you love fresh, zesty dips that come together in minutes, this Herby Garlic Cottage Cheese Dip is for you.
Packed with fresh herbs, creamy cottage cheese, a squeeze of lemon, and a hit of garlic, this dip is pure magic with veggies, chips, or crackers.
Let’s get into it!
Why I Love This Recipe
Let me tell you why this dip has become a staple in my fridge:
- So fresh: The herbs and lemon make it taste super bright.
- Protein-packed: Thanks to the cottage cheese, it’s filling and satisfying.
- Versatile: Serve with anything—crunchy veggies, pita chips, or even spread it on toast.
- No cooking: Just blend and go!
- Keeps well: I love having this ready for snack attacks or last-minute guests.
I first made this dip for a summer picnic and it totally disappeared! Now, I always double the batch—one for sharing, one for myself. It’s just that good.
Servings & Time
Servings: 6 as a dip
Time: 5 minutes
What You’ll Need
- 1 ½ cups cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- Zest of ½ lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (about ½ lemon)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Cottage cheese gets creamy and luscious when blended, making it the perfect base for a dip. The protein in cottage cheese keeps you fuller longer, while lemon juice and zest brighten the flavor. The herbs and garlic add layers of freshness and punch, balancing the mild dairy taste and making every bite exciting.
Pro Tips
- Blend until super creamy: Use a food processor or blender for a fluffy, smooth dip.
- Use fresh herbs: Dried just doesn’t cut it here! Fresh herbs really make the flavors pop.
- Adjust garlic to taste: Start with less if you’re sensitive, and add more if you love that garlic punch.
- Let it chill: If you have time, let the dip sit in the fridge for 30 minutes—the flavors blend and deepen.
- Garnish before serving: A sprinkle of extra herbs on top makes it look and taste even better.
Tools Needed
- Food processor or blender
- Measuring spoons
- Microplane or zester
- Citrus juicer (optional)
- Small spatula
- Mixing bowl (if not blending directly)
Substitutions and Variations
- Cottage cheese: Use ricotta for a milder flavor, or Greek yogurt for a tangier dip.
- Herbs: Mix and match what you have—cilantro, mint, or tarragon can be fun.
- Lemon: Try lime juice for a twist.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small piece of jalapeño.
- Dairy-free: Use a plant-based cottage cheese alternative.
Make Ahead Tips
This dip is even better after a few hours in the fridge. Make it up to 2 days ahead and store in an airtight container.
Instructions
1. Prep the Ingredients
Wash and chop the fresh parsley, chives, dill, and basil. Mince the garlic. Zest and juice the lemon.
2. Add Everything to the Food Processor
Place the cottage cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, all the chopped herbs, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper into the bowl of your food processor.
3. Blend Until Creamy
Blend everything on high until the dip is super smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
4. Taste and Adjust
Taste the dip and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Blend again briefly.
5. Serve
Scoop the dip into a serving bowl. Garnish with extra chopped herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, and maybe a few lemon zest curls. Serve with veggies, crackers, or pita.
Macros Information (per serving, estimate)
- Calories: 85
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 2g
Leftovers and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Stir before serving. This dip doesn’t freeze well—it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Common Mistakes
- Using low-quality cottage cheese: Good quality makes a creamier dip.
- Skipping the blend: Hand-mixing won’t give you that smooth, whipped texture.
- Too much garlic: It can overpower—start small and add more as needed.
- Not tasting as you go: Adjust lemon and salt to get the flavor just right.
What to Serve With
- Sliced cucumber, carrots, bell peppers, and celery
- Pita chips or crackers
- Toasted baguette slices
- Spread on sandwiches or wraps
- Dolloped on baked potatoes
FAQ
Q: Can I use dried herbs?
A: I wouldn’t recommend it—fresh herbs make a huge difference in flavor and texture.
Q: Can I make this without a food processor?
A: You can mash everything by hand for a rustic texture, but a food processor gives the best creamy results.
Q: Is this good for meal prep?
A: Yes! It holds up great in the fridge for several days.
Q: Is it lactose-free?
A: Use lactose-free cottage cheese if needed.
Q: Can I double or halve the recipe?
A: Absolutely—just adjust the ingredient amounts as needed.
Conclusion
I hope you give this Herby Garlic Cottage Cheese Dip a try! It’s such a fresh and easy snack or party dip—let me know how it goes in the comments, or ask any questions you have. Enjoy every creamy, herby bite!