Creamy, smoky, tangy and seriously addicting.
This dip is a game-changer.
It’s creamy without needing any mayo or sour cream, packed with flavor from roasted red peppers, and has just the right tang from lemon and feta.
Cottage cheese gives it a smooth, rich texture (don’t worry—it blends up perfectly!), and a pinch of smoked paprika pulls it all together.
You’ll love how easy this is—just toss everything in the blender and go.
Perfect for crackers, veggies, or spreading on a sandwich.
I always keep a batch in the fridge for snack attacks or unexpected guests.
🧡 Why I Love This Recipe
A few years ago, I tried something like this at a farmer’s market and instantly knew I had to make it at home. After a few tweaks, this version became a favorite. Here’s why:
- One blender, done in 5 minutes
- Protein-packed from the cottage cheese
- Smoky + tangy flavor combo that’s just right
- Amazing cold from the fridge
- Versatile—dip, spread, or even sauce for grain bowls
🍽️ Servings & Time
Serves: 6 (as an appetizer)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 (just blend!)
Total Time: 5 minutes
🛒 What You’ll Need
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (from a jar, drained)
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
👩🍳 Pro Tips
- Drain your peppers well. Too much liquid makes the dip runny.
- Use whipped cottage cheese if you don’t want to blend—it’s extra smooth.
- Add extra lemon juice if you like it tangier.
- Chill it before serving for the best flavor and texture.
- Top with olive oil or herbs to make it look fancy with no effort.
🧰 Tools You’ll Need
- Blender or food processor
- Measuring spoons
- Small spatula
- Serving bowl
🔁 Substitutions & Variations
- No feta? Try goat cheese or cream cheese for a milder flavor.
- Add spice: Toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a bit of harissa.
- Herbs: Blend in fresh basil or parsley for extra color and flavor.
- Vegan version: Use plant-based feta and a vegan cottage cheese alternative.
⏳ Make-Ahead Tips
- Make this up to 3 days ahead. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Stir before serving and re-season if needed (flavors intensify over time!).
👩🍳 Instructions: How to Make It
Step 1: Add Cottage Cheese to Blender
Scoop 1 cup of low-fat cottage cheese into your blender or food processor.
Step 2: Add Roasted Red Peppers
Add 1/2 cup of chopped, well-drained roasted red peppers.
Step 3: Add Feta and Lemon Juice
Sprinkle in 1/3 cup crumbled feta and drizzle 1 tbsp lemon juice over the mix.
Step 4: Add Smoked Paprika + Season
Add 1/4 tsp smoked paprika and a pinch each of salt and black pepper.
Step 5: Blend Until Smooth
Blend everything on high until silky smooth and creamy—about 30–45 seconds. Scrape down sides if needed.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Transfer to a bowl and garnish with extra feta, paprika, or a swirl of olive oil if you like.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Give it a quick stir before serving again.
- Don’t freeze—it’ll mess up the texture.
🧪 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Cottage cheese is high in casein protein, which blends super smooth and creates a creamy base when processed.
- Roasted red peppers add depth thanks to caramelization from roasting.
- Feta provides salt and tang, balancing the sweetness of the peppers.
- Lemon juice brightens everything, making the flavors pop.
⚠️ Common Mistakes
- Using watery roasted peppers – drain them well, or the dip will be too loose.
- Not blending long enough – give it time to get ultra-smooth.
- Over-salting – feta is salty already, so taste before adding more salt.
🥕 What to Serve With
- Pita chips or warm pita bread
- Crunchy veggies like cucumbers, carrots, or bell pepper strips
- Crackers or baguette slices
- As a spread on sandwiches or wraps
- Drizzle over grain bowls or salads
❓FAQ
Can I use fresh red peppers instead of roasted?
You can, but you’ll need to roast them first! Jarred ones are easier and just as tasty.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, just use dairy-free alternatives for the cottage cheese and feta.
Is it spicy?
Nope, it’s smoky and tangy. If you want heat, add a pinch of chili flakes.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your blender or processor can handle the volume.
💬 Wrap-Up
Give this dip a try—you’ll be hooked after the first bite. It’s creamy, bold, and crazy easy to make. Whether you’re serving guests or just need a quick snack, it’ll definitely hit the spot.
Let me know in the comments how it turns out or if you have any questions—I’m always happy to help!