Smashed Cucumber Cottage Cheese Bowl

Cool, crunchy, creamy—and totally satisfying.

Hey there!

This Smashed Cucumber Cottage Cheese Bowl is one of my go-to recipes when I want something quick, fresh, and a little different. It’s a mix of textures and flavors that just works. The crisp, smashed cucumbers soak up the garlicky, tangy dressing and pair so well with creamy cottage cheese. Light but filling, this bowl hits the spot for lunch or even a lazy dinner.

this recipe!

🍽 Servings & Time

• Servings: 2
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time (optional): 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10–20 minutes

❤️ Why I Love This Recipe

This bowl came out of one of those “what’s in the fridge” days—and it instantly became a favorite. The textures are so good, and the chili oil over cool cucumbers and creamy cottage cheese is honestly addictive.

• No cooking needed
• So refreshing on a hot day
• Takes 10 minutes to throw together
• High in protein and low in carbs
• Perfect balance of creamy, spicy, tangy, and crunchy

🔬 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)

• Smashed cucumbers release water and absorb more dressing, making them extra flavorful
• Cottage cheese adds creaminess and protein while mellowing the heat from chili oil
• Vinegar in the dressing helps cut the richness and brighten the whole bowl
• Toasted sesame seeds or herbs add texture and bring everything together

🧠 Meal Plan Ideas

• Prep smashed cucumbers and dressing ahead for grab-and-go bowls
• Serve alongside grilled chicken or salmon
• Add cooked quinoa or farro underneath to bulk it up
• Top with a jammy egg for extra richness

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not salting the cucumbers – helps them release excess water and absorb flavor
• Over-smashing – you want chunks, not mush
• Using watery cottage cheese – drain if needed for thicker texture
• Skipping the rest time – even 5-10 minutes helps meld the flavors

🍽 What You’ll Need

Ingredients:

• 2 Persian cucumbers (or 1 English cucumber)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup small curd cottage cheese
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tbsp chili crisp or chili oil
• 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
• Fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)

🧰 Tools You’ll Need

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or fork for smashing
• Small bowl for dressing

🔁 Substitutions & Variations

• Use Greek yogurt or labneh instead of cottage cheese
• Add crushed peanuts or cashews for crunch
• Toss in shredded chicken or tofu for extra protein
• Skip the chili oil if you don’t like heat
• Use lime juice in place of vinegar for a twist

⏳ Make-Ahead Tips

• Smash and salt cucumbers ahead of time—store in the fridge up to 2 days
• Mix dressing and keep separately in a jar
• Assemble bowl fresh just before eating for best texture

👣 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Smash and salt the cucumbers

Cut cucumbers into chunks. Place them on a cutting board and gently smash with the side of a knife or fork until they break open. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 5–10 minutes.

Step 2: Mix the dressing

In a small bowl, mix minced garlic, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and chili oil until combined.

Step 3: Toss cucumbers in dressing

Drain any water from the cucumbers, then toss them in the chili garlic dressing until coated.

Step 4: Assemble the bowl

Spoon cottage cheese into your bowl, top with the dressed cucumbers, and sprinkle with sesame seeds and herbs.

🧊 Leftovers & Storage Tips

• Store dressed cucumbers separately from the cottage cheese
• Both keep well for 2–3 days in the fridge
• Re-stir before serving if liquid settles

🔢 Exact Macros (Per serving)

• Calories: 160
• Protein: 14g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbs: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 4g

❓ FAQ

Can I use regular cucumbers?
Yep! Just scrape out the seeds and cut into chunks before smashing.

What’s the best kind of cottage cheese?
Small curd, 4% fat cottage cheese works great—creamy and not too runny.

Is this spicy?
It depends on the chili oil you use. Start small and adjust to your heat preference.

Can I make it vegan?
Sure! Swap the cottage cheese for a plant-based yogurt or tofu dip.

Creamy, Crunchy, Chill & Spicy 🥄

This Smashed Cucumber Cottage Cheese Bowl is proof that healthy can be exciting. It’s bold, refreshing, and comes together in minutes. Give it a try and let me know how you make it your own—I love seeing your bowl builds!