Fresh & Easy Curry Chickpea Cottage Cheese Salad

If you want a salad that is fresh, filling, and full of flavor, this Curry Chickpea Cottage Cheese Salad is perfect. Creamy cottage cheese pairs with hearty chickpeas, while crisp vegetables add crunch and a light curry dressing brings warmth and zest. Quick and easy to make, it works for busy weekdays, picnics, or a light dinner, and can be enjoyed on its own, with bread, or as a side for grilled meats or fish. The salad balances flavors beautifully, with mild curry blending with tangy yogurt and citrus, chickpeas adding protein, and fresh vegetables providing crunch. Every bite is creamy, crunchy, tangy, and slightly spicy. Vegetarian, high in protein, and packed with nutrients, it can be made ahead for a convenient and healthy meal.

Ingredients Needed

Here is everything you need to make this fresh and easy salad. Precise measurements will help you achieve consistent results.

For the salad

• 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed, approximately 400 grams
• 200 grams of cottage cheese, cubed or crumbled
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 2 teaspoons red onion, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh mint, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• Salt to taste

For the dressing

• 3 teaspoons plain yogurt
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

Step by Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing the chickpeas

Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas to remove excess sodium and improve flavor. Place them in a large bowl and optionally mash half for a creamier texture that helps the dressing stick.

Making the dressing

Whisk yogurt, curry powder, olive oil, cumin, paprika, pepper, salt, and honey until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Preparing the vegetables

Dice cucumber, bell pepper, and tomato, and finely chop red onion, cilantro, and mint. Keep pieces uniform for crunch and freshness.

Combining the salad

Add vegetables and cottage cheese to the chickpeas, pour in the dressing, and toss gently. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice.

Chilling and serving

Chill the salad for at least 15 minutes to meld flavors. It can be made a few hours ahead and stays fresh up to 24 hours.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

This salad is very versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. You can add roasted nuts or seeds like almonds, cashews, or pumpkin seeds for extra crunch and protein, or swap cottage cheese with feta or paneer for a different flavor and texture. Other fresh vegetables such as grated carrots, zucchini, or avocado can be included for more variety. For a spicier kick, try adding finely chopped green chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing. To make the salad vegan friendly, substitute plain yogurt with a dairy-free alternative. You can also add cooked quinoa or brown rice to make it more filling and hearty.

Nutritional Information

This salad contains approximately 220 calories per serving, with 14 grams of protein, 9 grams of fat, 20 grams of carbohydrates, 6 grams of fiber, 4 grams of sugar, and 210 milligrams of sodium. It is high in protein thanks to the chickpeas and cottage cheese and rich in fiber, supporting digestive health. The fresh vegetables add vitamins and minerals while keeping the dish light and low in calories.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is perfect on its own as a light meal. It can also be served as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables. Pair it with whole grain bread or pita for a complete lunch. It is ideal for picnics and potlucks because it travels well and can be served chilled. You can also use it as a filling for wraps or sandwiches, adding a fresh and healthy twist to your regular lunch options.

Frequently Asked Questions